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Smokers upset as ban takes effect

DUBAI —Visitors to shopping malls in Dubai will have a smoke-free environment now, as Dubai Municipality’s ban on smoking in such centres comes into force today.

The move, while it may have made breathing easy for non-smokers, has upset many smokers who look at it as a restriction on their freedom.

When Khaleej Times spoke to members of Dubai’s multi-cultural society, it came as no surprise that non-smokers welcomed the initiative, and smokers expressed reservations about the short period they were given to be mentally prepared. Smokers also expressed apprehension at the likely changes in the regulation in the coming future, which they are sure will further tighten the noose around the habit of smoking at public places.

MOHAMMED KAMIYAB: I do not agree with the ban on smoking in public places, as it encroaches on my freedom. The majority of residents in Dubai, and most of the visitors to places such as shopping malls and entertainment centres are smokers, and the non-smoking form a minority. Keeping that in mind the civic authority should provide more space for smokers than non-smokers, rather than just designating a small cubicle for smokers. I would like to give up smoking, but at my own pace and will; and for the moment I cannot. I think they should reconsider the move.

Majid Faisal Bin Mazi: I think ban is not the right word for it, since it is simply prohibited in very specific areas, which again have designated spaces for smokers. Also, I do not believe civic authority in Dubai would set up an office or deploy an inspector to fine violators, nor do I think the mall managers would be ridiculous enough to fine their customers and spoil their business. It’s going to take time to make people get used to the idea, during which time enforcement of the law can only be limited to a warning. What I like best is the timing of Dubai Municipality in putting the regulation in action. Ramadan and the ban coincide and this means smokers would anyway not be smoking, not just in the malls but also anywhere for that matter — except in the evenings. A month’s practice is what the municipality has made possible for smokers to get used to the idea.

SIAN DONOVAN: I am a non-smoker and I welcome the ban, it’s the right thing to do to make people respect the right of others to stay healthy. I must admit, however, that I cannot say I have suffered as a passive smoker because of smokers, especially in shopping malls. But banning smoking in all enclosed spaces is the right thing to do, open spaces are okay for non-smokers I guess.

IWONA TURNER: I was a smoker but gave up the habit five years ago, and now someone smoking around me is a bother. The ban is right, and since smokers have been provided designated areas in shopping centres, it should not be problem for them.

MOHAMMED RADWAN: Smoking is fine in open areas, but not within buildings, especially if public places are involved. But while I welcome the ban I wonder why it’s happening only in Dubai. It should be implemented all over the country. Smokers should respect the rights of others while still not compromising on their own — and the ban does exactly that.

ERFAN (Mohammed Radwan’s son): I find smoke very repulsive, as I am asthmatic. When I go to children’s play areas or video game zones, smokers around me offend me. The ban would do away with this problem for all others and me, especially children who are worst affected.

AMER: It’s great, because I hate cigarette smoke, and inconsiderate smokers puffing away to glory have bothered me. I think they should ban smoking in all possible public places and make smokers understand it is for their own good to quit the habit.

VIMMY KAUR: I think it’s a long awaited step that the municipality has taken and one, which should be welcomed by all. At least now passive smoking will be on the decline and other smokers will be discouraged to smoke in public. Perhaps the municipality should think about enforcing this ban in other places such as clubs, parks, coffee shops and other public areas. We can at least enjoy ourselves without getting bothered by the smoke.

ILYAS MOHAMMED: Instead of enforcing a complete ban on smoking, they should have designated areas where people can smoke without any worries. Policing and restricting somebody’s right to smoke will not be effective in curbing this practice. What will be effective would be spreading greater awareness amongst people regarding the ill effects of this habit.