DM to mark World No Tobacco Day

The civic body has earlier announced the introduction of a programme to regulate smoking in public places which will come into effect from 31 May 2007.

Hussain Nasser Lootah, Acting Director General of Dubai Municipality, said the move follows a decision by the Executive Council of the Emirate of Dubai, which recently reviewed a proposal by Dubai Municipality in this regard and decided to issue a law regulating smoking in public places, which will ultimately enforce a ban on smoking in places like shopping malls and food establishments.

He said the municipality's decision also comes in line with the Dubai Strategic Plan (2007-2015) which seeks to protect public health and improve quality of life for nationals and expatriates residing in Dubai and in line with the Strategic Plan of Dubai Municipality which provides for ensuring purity of interior air quality and prevention of smoking in public buildings.

Explaining the term "programme to regulate smoking in public places" he said this would mean three things: 1) a blanket ban on smoking in some places including schools, educational establishments, hair-cutting saloons, health clubs, internet cafes, food courts and offices; 2) designating smoking lounges or corners that meet all prevailing health prerequisites (such as ventilation, smoke-absorbers...etc.) in cafes, restaurants, shopping malls...etc.; and 3) preventing all persons under 21 years from such smoking zones.

He noted that the municipality has drawn up a time-table to implement the programme. On 31 May 2007, the programme will be formally announced with a ban on smoking in government departments and other public establishments, following which a massive media campaign will be undertaken in order to educate the public on the decision.

From 15 September 2007, smoking will be regulated in shopping malls and amusement centres. From 15 November 2007, all food establishments and other establishments related to public health such as beauty saloons, hotels, cinemas will have to regulate smoking inside their premises. From the year 2008 onwards, fines will be imposed on violators according to the Local Order No.11 of 2003 pertaining to public health and environment.