We understand the reservations that Halal restaurants may have regarding allowing Guide Dogs admittance. We have consulted the Majlis Ugama Islam Singapura (MUIS) regarding the issue, and they have kindly issued an advisory to all operators of halal-certified restaurants. The text of this advisory is presented below:

MUIS' ADVISORY TO OPERATORS OF HALAL CERTIFIED
EATING ESTABLISHMENTS ON GUIDE DOGS
FOR THE BLIND OR VISUALLY-IMPAIRED

This is with reference to an advisory issued by National Environment Agency (NEA), “Advisory To Operators Of Food Establishment On Guide Dogs”:

Guide Dogs

Guide Dogs are the guiding eyes for people who cannot see. They are carefully bred, raised and trained for the purpose of providing a safe means of mobility for people who are blind or visually impaired.

Entry of Guide Dogs into Halal Certified Eating Establishments

The current Halal regulations do not prohibit the access of Guide Dogs (for the blind or visually-impaired customers) into Halal certified eating establishments. However, hygiene and sensitivity issues may arise.

Guidelines when Allowing Guide Dogs into Your Premises

MUIS’ advice to holders of its Halal Certificate under the Eating Establishment Scheme to allow access to the blind or visually-impaired customers with Guide Dogs into their premises by abiding with the following guidelines :

• Operators should provide a designated area for people with Guide Dogs to be located at a location that would ensure safety of the owner and his/her dog as well as the comfort of other patrons in the eating establishments.
• Do ensure that the Guide Dog is harnessed by the owner and kept at his side at all times.
• If the Guide Dog needs to be fed at the designated area, disposable wares are to be used to prevent any cross mixing with cutleries used for the preparation and serving of Halal food.
• The designated place to be kept clean and hygienic at all times.

For any clarifications, please contact Mr Mohd Ariff Mohd Salleh, Halal Certification Strategic Unit, at +(65) 6359 1161 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .