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MoH proposes total ban on smoking in public places

DUBAI —Top officials from the Ministry of Health have proposed a ban on smoking in public places at a preliminary meeting held to study the draft of the country's first National Anti-Tobacco Law.

The draft law follows the successful implementation of existing laws in the AGCC countries including Qatar, Oman and Saudi Arabia. In a meeting held at the Ministry of Health yesterday, the formation of a committee to initiate the draft law was also proposed.

Dr Ayesha Al Muttawa, Director of Central Department of Health Education, MoH Preventive Medicine said that the ministry was looking to put in place, a proper mechanism to implement the proposed National Anti-Tobacco Law.

"We are hoping for a total ban on smoking in public places while we are also proposing fines for those not complying with the rules and regulations. But, all the proposals are still in the initial stage and we are working hard to make them a reality as soon as possible," she said without giving a time frame for the implementation of the law.

Dr Ayesha also said that the World Health Organisation's (WHO) Framework Convention on |Tobacco Control (FCTC) will also give a push to the implementation of the law in the country.

The meeting was a brainstorming session for several concerned departments, said Dr Ayesha adding that all put their proposals forward and also suggested amendments. "We will meet again shortly to discuss the changes which will be made when proof will be provided. Meanwhile, we are working in collaboration with other departments," she said.

Speaking about other proposals, Dr Ayesha said that the draft law also included regulations on all tobacco products including shisha. Taxes to be implemented on tobacco products, sponsorships and promotions, control on attractive advertisements and labelling are mandatory points that are being tackled in the law, said Dr Ayesha.

Accepting that there would be a backlash from tobacco firms, she said that the law was not against anyone, but was intended to protect public health. "We intend to put an end to passive smoking, protect the youth, stop illicit trade, smuggling and sponsorships among several other general aspects that can protect the general public," she added.

Dr Ayesha said that the draft law proposes provision of information as well as medicines which will eventually also help smokers quit the habit.