Riyadh — MOMRA has prohibited the sale of tobacco products to the under 18. MOMRA is the Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing.
The ministry has set terms and conditions for shops selling tobacco products. These regulations were on display on the ‘Istitlaa’ platform of the National Competitiveness Center. Seeking the opinions and suggestions of the public vis-à-vis the rules.
These rules regulate shops licensed to sell tobacco products, such as shisha shops, ordinary and electronic cigarettes, and their refills. The regulations also ensure the safety and quality of these products.
According to the terms and conditions, tobacco sellers must obtain a municipal license per the Municipal Law and its executive regulations.
Similarly, those under 18 cannot enter tobacco stores or buy tobacco products. The shop owner can ask for proof of age.
Recommended: A guide to healthcare systems in Saudi Arabia
The shops are not allowed to operate after midnight except after obtaining a work permit for the operation for 24 hours. This condition is not applicable during the holy month of Ramadan and holidays.
The terms and conditions include that shops must sell cigarettes in a closed packet with a whole pack of 20 cigarettes.
It is not permissible to sell products as a pill, and retail by kilo or weight is also forbidden.
It is prohibited to offer discounts on tobacco or any tobacco product or offer these as free promotional offers.
Public display, sale, or promotion of tobacco products is prohibited on public transport. The likes of vehicles, buses, trains, ships, boats, and planes.
The requirements stipulate the prohibition of any product’s import, sale, or presentation, carrying direct or indirect advertising for tobacco and its derivatives.
Recommended: All You Need To Know About Shopify
The regulations prohibit using any names or symbols, signs, or images on tobacco products in a way that violates public order.
According to the regulations, tobacco shop workers must wear a uniform displaying the shop’s name.
Tobacco shops must display warning signs explaining the dangers associated with tobacco use.
