Shisha Ban in Abu Dhabi Hotels and Cafes: Coronavirus

A circular from the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development said that all Shisha cafes and coffee shops in Abu Dhabi were ordered to stop serving hookah to their customers from Thursday.

“The DCT is instructing all tourism establishments to refrain from serving shisha in all areas and facilities. This should commence with immediate and urgent effect. Kindly note that tourism establishments will be visited by DCT inspectors…to verify adherence to the circular [and] establishments not in compliance with these guidelines will be subjected to legal action,” a circular from the department said

Earlier, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait imposed nationwide bans on shisha.

The Abu Dhabi department said any establishment found to be flouting the order would face legal action. “This is to draw attention of the owners of restaurants and cafes that the circular for the suspension of hookah has now come into effect. Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development invites you to implement it in a responsible manner keeping in mind public health and safety for all.”

“In line with the preventive measures for Covid-19, DCT is instructing all tourism establishments to refrain from serving shisha in all areas and facilities,” it said.

“This should commence with immediate and urgent effect. Establishments not in compliance with these guidelines will be subject to legal action.”

There are currently 74 confirmed cases of coronavirus in the UAE.