Throwing ash on the road after smoking — do people know [the dangers]? Smoking in public places has been banned in Dubai. However, I think the rules must be more strictly enforced. We can see a lot of people smoking in public places, such as bus stations and parks — some even do it near the ‘No smoking' warning signs.
While I was travelling through Al Qusais area, I saw a man driving in a car — he was throwing cigarette ash on the road, while smoking.
I am not trying to intrude on his privacy, but this habit contaminates the air and might lead to serious health hazards for non-smokers.
Even though smoking inside the car is not an offence, I would like the authorities to provide more information and awareness on whether throwing ash on the road after smoking is an offence or not.
- The reader is based in Dubai.
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UAE: Smoking rules
- The federal law No 15 of 2009 bans the import of tobacco and its products unless the UAE conditions and standard specifications are met, including clear warning statements and images on the packages.
- Under the law, smoking is banned in public places and on public transport, in vehicles where children under 12 are present, and in educational and health facilities and places of worship.
- The law also forbids selling of tobacco products to those less than 18 years.
- Violators can be fined up to Dh1 million along with a jail term of two years.
