Daijiworld Media Network - Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, Feb 28: In a landmark move to reshape public health, Abu Dhabi has announced a comprehensive ban on outdoor advertising for junk food and unhealthy beverages across the emirate. Launched under the Healthy Living Abu Dhabi programme by the Department of Health, the initiative aims to curb the visibility of fast food and nutritionally poor products in public spaces, tackling obesity, diabetes, and other diet-related chronic diseases.

Under the new rules, any product exceeding strict nutritional thresholds — including high calories, fat, saturated fat, sugar, or sodium — cannot be promoted outdoors on billboards, digital screens, street furniture, or transport shelters. Only products classified as Grade A or B under Abu Dhabi’s SEHHI Nutri-Mark system can be advertised, and even these must meet specific content guidelines.

Officials stressed that the policy is designed to redesign public environments so healthier choices become the default, rather than placing blame on individuals. The initiative aligns with broader strategies including repositioning unhealthy items in supermarkets, stricter school nutrition standards, community fitness programmes, and public health awareness campaigns.

By restricting outdoor promotions, Abu Dhabi aims to reduce impulse purchases and the social normalization of unhealthy diets. Public health experts highlight that marketing exposure, especially to children, significantly influences dietary habits. Authorities hope the ban will foster a cultural shift toward healthier lifestyles, while challenging food and beverage companies to innovate under the new regulatory framework.