Supermarkets in Abu Dhabi have to follow rules by January 1. These rules say that they cannot display food and drinks in easy to see places. The people in charge of health in Abu Dhabi are doing this to help people eat healthier. They made these rules with the people who help businesses in Abu Dhabi.
The rules are about food and drinks that have a lot of sugar, salt and fat. Stores cannot put these things near the checkout or at the front of the store. They want to do this so that people in Abu Dhabi are not too heavy and do not get sick from what they eat. They also want to make stores a healthier place to shop. Abu Dhabi is doing this to help people make choices when they buy food.
Under the updated guidelines, supermarkets are expected to replace unhealthy snacks with healthier alternatives such as fresh fruit, nuts, bottled water and other nutritious products in premium retail spaces. Officials believe the changes will make it easier for consumers to make healthier choices without restricting product availability or limiting purchasing options.
The initiative builds on Abu Dhabi’s long-term public health programmes aimed at preventing chronic illnesses linked to poor nutrition, including obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Health authorities say food placement plays a significant role in purchasing behaviour, particularly among children and families, making retail environments an important focus for preventive healthcare policies.
Retailers have been given a transition period to redesign store layouts and ensure compliance before the January 1 deadline. Authorities are expected to work with businesses throughout the implementation process, providing guidance on the new display requirements and monitoring adherence once the rules come into effect.
Public health experts have welcomed the move, saying international research shows that placing healthier products in more visible locations can positively influence consumer purchasing decisions. Similar initiatives have already been introduced in several countries as part of broader efforts to improve dietary habits and reduce non-communicable diseases.
The policy reflects Abu Dhabi’s commitment to building healthier communities through preventive healthcare and lifestyle-focused initiatives. By encouraging supermarkets to rethink product placement, officials hope to support better food choices while contributing to the emirate’s long-term health and wellbeing objectives.
