Clouds of smoke around mall in Abu Dhabi

One morning, at around 11am, I was in front of a popular shopping mall in Abu Dhabi. I was shocked to see the ashtrays outside, filled with cigarette stubs.

As smoking is prohibited inside malls, numerous people engage in the activity outside, just before entering the mall.

When I later exited the building, I walked into a large cloud of smoke. Apart from polluting the atmosphere, such people are also making passive smokers out of passersby.

I do not have a problem with smokers. But I believe the impact of seeing adults - especially women - smoking, would be very harmful for children and teenagers.

My question is - do we really need a smoking corner right in front of a beautiful shopping mall which is frequented by families?

I feel it would be a great temptation for the youth to follow in such people's footsteps and join the 'smokers' club'.

If smoking is banned inside malls, the ban should extend to its entrance, too.

A dedicated smoking room would be more preferable, as it would be out of the way and could help discourage people from smoking.

We would also prefer plants or small fountains in front of popular malls instead, as it would help make the surroundings more beautiful and eco-friendly.

The reader works as a technical officer in Abu Dhabi.

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