Saudi Arabia has implemented a ban on tobacco shops operating within 500 meters of mosques and schools, according to new guidelines from the Ministry of Municipalities and Housing.
The measures aim to safeguard public health, ensure legal compliance, and maintain orderly business environments in urban areas.
The regulations affect all stores selling tobacco products, including cigarettes, shisha, and e-cigarettes. Shop owners must possess valid commercial registration, Civil Defense approval, and full compliance with municipal licensing laws.
Stores must occupy at least 36 square meters within commercial buildings, with additional local municipality conditions possible.
Exterior signage cannot display logos or promotional materials - only the store name. Operations require security cameras indoors and outdoors, adherence to hygiene standards, electronic payment options, and prohibited sidewalk use.
All tobacco products must meet Saudi Food and Drug Authority standards, feature clear warning labels, and be sold in sealed packages. Vending machines, price reductions, gifts, and product testing are forbidden.
An article dedicated to Uzbekistan’s position in the international tourism market has been published in the Spanish publication “El Mundo Financiero”, reports Dunyo IA.
As noted in the article, Uzbekistan has once again been included among the world’s safest countries in the Global Terrorism Index 2026 ranking. Prepared by the Institute for Economics and Peace, the ranking covers 163 countries, and according to the results of 2026, Uzbekistan was placed among the group of the safest countries with a score of 0.014 points.
The publication assessed this result as a reflection of the effectiveness of consistent measures being implemented in the country to ensure public safety, improve the law enforcement system and prevent offenses.
Article also highlighted that foreign tourists feel safe while traveling across Uzbekistan. It emphasized that the system established to ensure security at airports, railway stations, metro facilities, tourist sites, central streets and other public places contributes to strengthening the country’s positive image.
Publication also noted that the rich historical and cultural heritage of the Great Silk Road cities such as Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva, as well as modern Tashkent and the country’s traditions of hospitality, are increasingly attracting foreign tourists.
“The results of the “Global Terrorism Index 2026” will further strengthen Uzbekistan’s image as a reliable, stable, and safe country for tourism, business, and international exchanges”, concluded “El Mundo Financiero”.