Source: Kahlee Times (ae)
Date: 2010-02-15
Author:  Asma Ali Zain

DUBAI -- With the region tightening the noose on the nicotine
habit in the region, ban on the sale of single cigarettes will be
implemented strictly in the country as part of new GCC-wide
guidelines formulated last week on advertising and promotional
restrictions of tobacco products.

The move is part of a wide range of anti-smoking measures being
taken by the government to put an end to the menace and
discourage the youth from taking up the habit. Experts say the
move will discourage youngsters from seeking a quick drag which
is now readily available in retail sales.

The guidelines on controlling tobacco advertisements and
promotions that are based on the Singapore model were drafted in
Kuwait last week -- over a year after they were proposed. The UAE
officials say they are just a small part of a whole range of
rules under the newly passed National Anti-Tobacco Law.

According to the guidelines, vendors will require a special
permit to sell tobacco while the outlets selling tobacco products
will be spaced at least 200-500 metres away from residential
areas, mosques, schools, hospitals and clinics.