SM issues food preparation, display permits during Ramadan daytime

This also includes the issuance of permits to display food in front of shops before iftar time for restaurants, cafeterias, sweet shops, regag bakeries and others, as part of its preparations for the holy month of Ramadan.

Those wishing to obtain these permits can visit the Municipality’s website and issue them in accordance with the required conditions within two minutes, in addition to the option of obtaining them through approved service centres.

Jamal Al Mazmi, Director of the Health Control and Safety Department, confirmed that the Municipality has begun its preparations for the holy month and has put in place the necessary plans to ensure the provision of safe food to consumers, in line with the highest health specifications and standards. This includes the provision of certain services in accordance with the required permits, such as permits for preparing food and displaying it for sale during daytime hours in Ramadan. These permits are granted in accordance with conditions approved by the Municipality, which include preparing and cooking food inside kitchens, serving customers outside the premises, and not using dining halls.

Al Mazmi explained that the issuance of the required permit to display food outside shops before iftar time is subject to several conditions. These include displaying food directly on the front pavement of the premises, provided it is not unpaved; placing food in non-rusting metal containers; and displaying it in a tightly sealed glass cabinet with a minimum height of 100 cm, fitted with a sliding or hinged door. Food must also be covered with aluminium foil or food-grade transparent plastic, and food-grade packaging materials must be used. In addition, food must be kept at an appropriate temperature (neither chilled nor frozen), and the displayed food must be prepared at the establishment in accordance with the licensed activity.

The Director of the Health Control and Safety Department stated that the Municipality has made this permit-issuing service available through its website, enabling customers to log in, register and issue the required permit in a record time not exceeding two minutes. This comes in line with its development efforts and service improvements aimed at facilitating procedures for customers. He noted that the service can also be completed through the 13 service centres distributed across various areas of Sharjah City.