United Arab Emirates – Updated anti-tobacco law in Dubai

THE updated anti-smoking legislation was announced in the third week of August, and will come into effect in six months. 

Experts believe that children in families of smokers have an increased chance of becoming smokers themselves. They also said that passive smoking is an avoidable risk factor for respiratory symptoms in children who are unprotected from exposure in both cars and homes. 

The World Health Organisation (WHO) states that one-third of those killed are children often exposed to second-hand smoke. Based on executive regulations by the UAE Ministry of Health, the anti-tobacco law bans smoking in vehicles in the presence of children under 12 and has regulations to reduce smoking among youth. 

The legislation has life-saving measures to limit the effect of tobacco and prevent future smokers, said Dr Wedad Al Maidour, Head of the National Tobacco Control Programme and director of Primary Healthcare Centres from the ministry. 

Speaking to a local newspaper, she said, “The federal law is a major step. The tough anti-smoking legislation will protect children and youth — both vulnerable groups. The overall aim is to prevent and reduce smoking among children and protect them from second-hand smoke.” She added, “The updated law will have a significant impact on youth smoking rates and protect from exposure to second-hand tobacco smoke.”