Saudi Arabia’s New Tobacco Regulations: Ban on Sales in Kiosks and Convenience Stores

As part of a comprehensive set of draft laws intended to strengthen control over tobacco sales and public health standards, the Saudi Ministry of Municipalities and Housing has suggested a ban on the sale of tobacco products in central markets, grocery stores and kiosks.

Before being formalised, the government solicits public feedback on the proposed regulations through its Istitlaa public consultation site. The proposed rules require that tobacco products be sold in commercial venues entirely out of sight and in accordance with Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) standards. 

The regulations also strengthen current bans on tobacco sales to minors under 18 which require vendors to confirm the age of customers and prominently post health warnings at checkout counters. These warnings must include graphic images and text highlighting the risks of smoking stating that “Smoking and tobacco products are a major cause of diseases and cancer of the mouth, lungs, heart and arteries.”

The draft also forbids smoking at retail outlets for both patrons and employees as well as any kind of tobacco marketing or advertising. Stores must have conspicuous “No Smoking” signage.