“Sheesha is not permissible in public areas, walkways, praying areas and commercial streets.”, Deputy chairman of the Capital Municipal Council Mazen Al Umran said

A new law will give municipal authorities the power to close down sheesha outlets which violate legal norms with regard to the area, where they are functioning. Deputy chairman of the Capital Municipal Council Mazen Al Umran said this would avoid confusion as to who will punish those who are violating laws - the Health Ministry or municipal authorities. “Sheesha is not permissible in public areas, walkways, praying areas and commercial streets. Until now, the municipality had approving powers, now it can shut down these outlets as well.” “A letter has been issued in decree number 83 that gives the Ministry of Health the entire responsibility and authorisation of sheesha places, and not to get municipalities involved.” “The municipalities only have a say in terms of area. If an individual expresses their concern to the authorities of municipalities of individual smoking sheesha in public places, the authorities will have the right to confiscate the sheeha,” Mazen added.