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UAE: 29 food outlets ordered shut in Fujairah for violating safety standards in 2024
These establishments were closed after they accumulated financial penalties and committed severe violations that posed risks to public health
- PUBLISHED: Fri 31 Jan 2025, 6:00 AM UPDATED: Sun 2 Feb 2025, 6:48 PM
As many as 29 food outlets were ordered shut in Fujairah in 2024 for violating public health and safety standards, the municipality said.
Some were found operating without licences while others were penalised over poor hygiene practices. Some staff also lacked training and failed to wear masks and gloves, the Fujairah Municipality said.
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The establishments were closed after accumulating financial penalties and committing serious violations that endangered public health.
“The municipality's strategic goal is to enhance public health and ensure food safety through strict enforcement measures," Mohammed Al Afkham, director-general of Fujairah Municipality, told Khaleej Times.
"We are committed to maintaining a safe and hygienic environment while ensuring that all food products meet the highest health standards," he added.
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Here's a list of repeated and serious violations that led to the establishments' closure:
- Failure to store and display food at proper temperatures
- Neglecting essential hygiene measures within establishments
- Poor maintenance of flooring, ceilings, and drainage systems
- Lack of staff training on best health and safety practices
- Operating without the necessary licenses
- Failure to follow preventive measures, such as wearing masks and gloves or ensuring social distancing within the premises
Inspection campaigns
The municipality's health control department conducted 31,462 inspections last year. These inspections resulted in 1,525 official warnings and multiple closure orders for businesses that repeatedly violated health regulations.
“Our inspection campaigns were designed to ensure Fujairah remains a model of public health and safety. They were aimed at maintaining the city's clean and professional image, ensuring a safe food supply for consumers, and detecting any malpractice in handling food," said Al Afkham.
Fujairah Municipality also strictly prohibits the unauthorised import, sale, or use of pesticides, ensuring that only licensed professionals handle pest control operations.
The authorities have also been taking steps to eliminate mosquitoes, flies, and rodents, among other pests that usually carry diseases.
“(We) focus on critical areas, including beaches, public parks, markets, water treatment plants, residential, and industrial zones. These initiatives are aligned with global best practices to prevent infestations and ensure a healthier environment,” Al Afkham said.
Zero tolerance for violators
The municipality reaffirmed its strict stance against any establishment that endangers consumer health. Al Afkham assured regular inspection campaigns will continue to enforce compliance, and legal action will be taken immediately against violators.
“Our goal is to uphold best practices in food safety to protect public health and strengthen Fujairah's reputation as a city that adheres to the highest health and safety standards,” he noted, adding “the municipality is continuously upgrading its health monitoring mechanisms while raising awareness among food and health facility workers.”
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