People Speak: Public smoking ban

Dubai is going to impose a ban on smoking in public from May 31. The ban will be implemented in three phases. Fines will be imposed on violators. Here is what people think about it.

"They should ensure it's enforced strictly with stringent punishments that will serve as a deterrent."
Sriniwasan Gopal
Indian, non-smoker

"I smoke myself but inside offices, malls and restaurants it [smoking] is a real irritant. For non-smokers it must be horrendous. This is great news but will they enforce it? I find it amazing that even in non-smoking areas people still smoke." Pete Aldwinkle
Briton, smoker

"I think it's a fabulous idea and it makes for a healthier environment. However, they did this in malls before [in 2004] but nothing happened."
Patricia O'Sullivan
Irish, non-smoker

"You don't see people smoking in food courts much anyway. I don't think it's such a huge problem in malls. I think it's going to be really hard on smokers. I never thought it was enough of a nuisance for there to be a ban."
Adnan Arif
Pakistani, non-smoker