The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has launched a comprehensive anti-tobacco initiative, introducing new guidelines and stricter regulations aimed at reducing smoking-related illnesses and protecting public health. This move aligns with the UAE’s commitment to creating a healthier society, reinforcing public awareness campaigns and legal frameworks to curb tobacco consumption.
Key Measures Introduced
The UAE’s latest anti-tobacco policies focus on several critical areas, including tobacco-free workplaces, stronger enforcement of smoking bans, and extensive public health campaigns.
1. Tobacco-Free Workplace Guidelines
The UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) has introduced a Tobacco-Free Workplace Initiative, prohibiting smoking in all government and private offices, including outdoor spaces and vehicles. Employers must:
Enforce a strict no-smoking policy inside and around workplace premises.
Implement penalties for employees violating the rule.
Promote tobacco cessation programs to help smokers quit.
This initiative aligns with global efforts to create healthier work environments and reduce passive smoking exposure.
2. New Tobacco Control Regulations
The UAE has strengthened enforcement of Federal Law No. 15 of 2009, which includes:
No sales of tobacco products to minors under 18.
No smoking in private vehicles when children under 12 are present.
Banning smoking in public spaces, schools, hospitals, and places of worship.
Prohibiting the advertisement and promotion of tobacco products.
Banning the sale of candy and toys resembling tobacco products.
Restricting the use of tobacco vending machines nationwide.
Violations of these regulations can result in hefty fines and legal actions.
3. Practical Guidelines for Managing Tobacco Dependence
To support smokers in quitting, MoHAP has introduced a new clinical guideline, equipping health professionals with the necessary tools to help individuals overcome tobacco addiction. This includes:
Behavioral therapies and counseling services.
Medication-based interventions to reduce tobacco dependency.
Long-term follow-up programs to prevent relapse.
The UAE healthcare system is working closely with public and private clinics to ensure that these evidence-based cessation programs are widely available.
4. Public Awareness Campaigns
The government has ramped up public education efforts to highlight the dangers of smoking, focusing on:
Health Risks of Smoking – Raising awareness about cardiovascular diseases, lung cancer, and respiratory illnesses.
The Impact of Secondhand Smoke – Educating families about the risks of exposure to children and non-smokers.
Quitting Support – Encouraging people to seek help through helplines, mobile apps, and medical support programs.
These campaigns utilize social media, television, and community outreach to reach a broad audience.
UAE’s Commitment to a Smoke-Free Future
The UAE has set ambitious goals to reduce smoking rates as part of its National Agenda 2031, which focuses on:
Cutting down tobacco consumption in the population.
Reducing smoking-related deaths and diseases.
Promoting a healthier lifestyle across the UAE.
Dubai and Abu Dhabi have already taken steps towards creating smoke-free zones, and the introduction of more stringent tobacco laws and cessation programs will further advance these efforts.
The UAE’s new anti-tobacco regulations and awareness programs mark a significant step forward in protecting public health. By limiting tobacco use, enforcing stricter smoking bans, and supporting smokers in quitting, the country is making strides toward a healthier, smoke-free future.
With stronger policies and widespread public participation, the UAE is setting an example for other nations in the fight against tobacco-related health risks.