A nationwide ban on smoking in enclosed public places will come into force from early next year, The Ministry of Health has announced.
The ban extends to universities, hospitals, public transport, theatres, cinemas, playgrounds and pitches as well as “other public spaces”.
Dr Waddad Al Maidoor, head of the National Anti-Tobacco Programme at the Ministry of Health, said: “The ministry decided to open eight new clinics for those who wish to quit smoking with primary healthcare centres in Dubai and in Fujairah.
“Nine other existing clinics will play a greater role in that field as they will be refurbished and equipped with the necessary medications,” she told Al Ittihad, the sister newspaper of The National.
It is not partial, nor is it limited to some areas or establishments, she added, stressing the importance of promoting services and centres of assistance to help people quit smoking.
The UAE Vision 2021 plan set targets to reduce smoking levels to 16 per cent nationally, from the current 26 per cent.
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