Abu Dhabi Closes Two Stores Near Schools Over Vape Sales Violations

Key Points 

• The Abu Dhabi Business Registration Authority (ADRA) shut down two shops for breaching tobacco and e-cigarette sale rules.
• 61 warnings and 18 fines were issued to shops near schools and educational institutions.
• ADRA conducted 1,661 field visits and 21 inspection campaigns since the start of the year.
• Violations included displaying tobacco at payment counters, home deliveries, and selling to underage customers.
• Director General Mohammed Muneef Al Mansoori said high compliance reflects the effectiveness of awareness campaigns.

2Firsts, Nov. 6, 2025 — According to the Emirates News Agency (WAM), the Abu Dhabi Business Registration Authority (ADRA), an arm of the Department of Economic Development, announced the closure of two shops and the issuance of 61 warnings and 18 fines to establishments near schools for violating tobacco and e-cigarette sales rules.

The inspection campaigns, held across Abu Dhabi during the first ten months of the year, focused on ensuring that shops near schools and educational institutions comply with the emirate’s commercial regulations.

The intensified inspections form part of ADRA’s initiatives to maintain a safe, trustworthy, and transparent business environment, protecting both youth and society. Since the beginning of this year, ADRA has carried out 1,661 field visits and 21 inspection campaigns targeting tobacco and e-cigarette sales.

Violations included displaying tobacco products at checkout counters, delivering them to homes, and selling to individuals below the legal age limit.

ADRA plays a key role in safeguarding consumer rights and brand protection through developing and implementing relevant laws and ensuring compliance.

Director General Mohammed Muneef Al Mansoori said the authority’s strong focus on providing safe business conditions and protecting consumers reflects its commitment to a modern business ecosystem meeting health, safety, and environmental standards.

He added that the limited number of violations compared to the total number of establishments and inspections indicates a high compliance rate, demonstrating the effectiveness of awareness campaigns. ADRA will continue efforts to ensure the highest standards of health, safety, transparency, and the protection of consumer and intellectual property rights.

Image Source: Emirates News Agency (WAM)