Abu Dhabi mandates healthy menu options in hotels and restaurants from October 2026

Abu Dhabi's Department of Tourism and Culture has issued a new regulation requiring hotels and restaurants to include healthy food options on their menus starting October 1, 2026. Adult menus must have at least one healthy option in each category (appetisers, sides, mains, desserts), while children's menus must have at least half of all items as healthy options. All healthy items must comply with SEHHI nutritional standards and be marked with the SEHHI logo. The rule applies to all hotel-operated and independent food and beverage outlets holding a tourism licence. Establishments may be required to submit menus, recipes, and nutritional information for verification. Buffets, tasting menus, and niche outlets offering a small range of items are exempt from the policy. The move is part of Abu Dhabi's broader initiative to promote healthier food choices across supermarkets, schools, and public advertising.