No Smoking At Ramla l-Hamra and Golden Bay From 2026

As of January 1st 2026, smoking at Golden Bay in Malta and Ramla l-Ħamra in Gozo will only be permitted in designated areas. The announcement was made by Environment Minister Miriam Dalli, and Health Minister Jo Etienne Abela, during the closing of the Saving Our Blue Summer Edition campaign.

Enforcement will be carried out jointly by the Environment and Resources Authority (ERA), the Health Department, the Malta Tourism Authority (MTA), LESA, and the Malta Police Force, with fines of €150 for violations.

The designated zones will be equipped with ashtrays, which will be regularly cleaned, ensuring that cigarette butts, lighters, and other tobacco waste are properly disposed of. Such litter is among the most common on Maltese beaches, posing a threat to marine life and the country’s natural beauty.

“This measure was inspired by conversations I had with children,” said Dalli, “It is an environmental step addressing cigarette waste that ends up in the sea and takes years to decompose, contributing to a healthier coastal environment. With this move, Malta joins other countries in introducing such restrictions to protect our marine environment for the common good.”

Abela described the pilot project as a key step in promoting smoke-free public spaces. “These restrictions support our Ministry’s new policy framework aimed at reducing smoking, preventing non-communicable diseases, and protecting the environment,” he added.

The announcement coincided with a public event marking the conclusion of the campaign and the launch of Malta’s Sustainable Development Action Days, which run from the 18th of September till the 8th of October. The event featured workshops, live performances, sports, and educational stands promoting sustainable living, water conservation, waste reduction, and environmental awareness.

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Photo Credit: OutWithKidz