UAE And Saudi Announce Plans To Help People Quit Smoking
UAE and Saudi Arabia are urging citizens and residents to quit smoking as part of World No-Tobacco Day.
The UAE’s Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) has urged smokers to quit, warning against the serious health risks associated with smoking such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer, diabetes, and mental health issues.
MoHAP also warned against the promotion of electronic smoking products as safer alternatives to traditional cigarettes due to the lack of scientific evidence supporting these claims.
UAE and Saudi urge smokers to quit smoking on World No-Tobacco Day
To mark World No-Tobacco Day on May 31, the Ministry emphasised that it has set a comprehensive strategy to curb tobacco use and create a smoke-free environment.
This strategy includes a national programme specifically designed to reduce tobacco consumption, which aligns with the national health indicators.
The Ministry highlighted that the UAE became a member of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control in 2005, solidifying its position as a leading nation in the region and globally in tobacco control efforts.
The agreement includes measures aimed at reducing tobacco demand as well as curtailing its production and distribution.
Furthermore, the Ministry has issued legislation to bolster anti-smoking efforts and emphasised the importance of enforcing Tobacco Control Law No. 15 of 2009, along with its executive regulations, across all electronic tobacco products.
In Saudi Arabia, PIF-owned Badael marked its first anniversary with the launch of the “Clear the Air” campaign.
This initiative calls upon individuals, organisations, and government entities to unite in creating a smoke-free Saudi Arabia.
Badael aims to curb smoking by providing safer alternatives in line with the quality-of-life Vision 2030.
The company is leading the cause to help one million Saudis quit smoking by 2028, thanks to the first-ever Saudi-made DZRT nicotine pouches manufactured in Saudi Arabia.
In its first year, Badael achieved significant milestones, establishing and expanding its manufacturing capacity while investing substantially in research and development to enhance its product range.
The company has diversified its distribution channels surpassing one million e-commerce orders since its inception, helping around three hundred thousand people locally transition from tobacco to their products.
These achievements are a testament to Badael’s commitment to public health, underscore the company’s steadfast dedication to its mission, and exemplify its commitment to future expansion and innovation.
As part of the “Clear the Air” campaign, individuals, corporations, and government bodies are invited to sign the pledge for a smoke-free Saudi Arabia.
This collective effort aims to significantly reduce tobacco use and improve the overall well-being of Saudi society. The pledge emphasises raising awareness about the dangers of smoking, supporting quitters, protecting youth, promoting clean air, and safeguarding the environment.
