Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Municipalities and Housing said tobacco retailers risk fines of up to SR5,000 and possible closure for selling to minors, as authorities seek to curb underage smoking.
A business can face the same maximum fine for letting someone under 18 enter a tobacco shop or an area designated for serving tobacco products. The amount depends on how the municipality or other relevant local authority is classified, the ministry said. Repeat violations bring doubled fines.
Sellers may ask customers to establish their age before a purchase. Businesses must post signs warning of smoking’s health risks and stating that minors cannot buy tobacco or enter restricted areas. Individual cigarettes cannot be sold, and tobacco products cannot be offered as free samples, prizes, gifts or promotions.
The ministry urged business owners to explain the restrictions and penalties to employees. The ministry’s June licensing rules require tobacco shops to stand at least 500 meters from schools or mosques and occupy at least 36 square meters. The requirements also include surveillance cameras and fire safety systems.
