The government of Abu Dhabi will ban smoking in public places this month, according to a senior municipality official.

Abu Dhabi municipality director of municipal services Omar Al Hashemi, said the ban had become necessary because of the growth in the number of restaurants and shopping centres where smoking poses a health hazard to others.
“The fine to be charged is still under discussion but is expected to be UAE 500 (EUR 103),” he said, adding that the ban would be enforced by the civic body and other local government departments.
Some commercial centres have voluntarily banned smoking in lounges, shops and salons. They have designated special corners for smokers.
“Such a move was taken by managers of these outlets but the municipality is yet to issue a resolution in this respect. The ban is expected to come out this month,” Al Hashemi said.
The ban on smoking in public places was first introduced in the UAE by Dubai in 2007. A federal law is yet to be detailed. (sra)