Big change for Abu Dhabi Supermarkets by January 2027

Supermarkets across Abu Dhabi will be required to move junk food and sugary drinks away from high-visibility areas such as store entrances, checkout counters and end-of-aisle displays from January 1, 2027. The new policy, introduced by the Healthy Living programme in partnership with the Abu Dhabi Registration Authority (ADRA), also applies to online supermarkets, where products high in fat, salt and sugar (HFSS) will no longer be prominently featured on homepages, search results or checkout pages.

The initiative does not ban the sale of unhealthy products. Instead, it aims to reduce impulse purchases by making healthier options more visible while keeping all products available on store shelves. Officials say the policy is based on behavioural science and international best practices, helping consumers make healthier choices without restricting their freedom to buy the foods they want.

The rules will apply to physical supermarkets larger than 4,000 square feet, with retailers already working to meet the deadline. Carrefour has become one of the first supermarket chains to implement the changes across its Abu Dhabi stores. The policy forms part of Abu Dhabi's wider Healthy Living strategy, which also includes stricter school nutrition standards and measures to encourage healthier eating across the emirate.