Ministry to ban smoking in front of public places like malls, hotels

Ministry to ban smoking in front of public places like malls, hotels

QatarNews
By QatarNews

Smoking at the entrances of the malls, hotels, buildings of major organizations could soon be banned, disclosed a top official of the Ministry of Public Health (MOPH). 

“This is a recommendation from us. We hope to implement it at leading facilities in the country,” said Dr. Kholood al- Mutawaa, head, Non- Communicable Disease Department at MOPH and the regional officer for Tobacco Cessation yesterday to Gulf Times.

“This is not a new proposal. We had initiated this idea last year itself. We had contacted the officials of the malls and other organizations. We also had a talk with Qatar Tourism Authority in this regard,” pointed out Dr. al-Mutawaa.

The official continued, “It is not just a health issue alone. It is not a suitable practice and definitely not environment friendly. If any VIPs visit these places, they might see people smoking in the vicinity of these places that might give a bad image.”

She highlighted that some of the malls have already complied with the proposal and the ministry had already recognised them with certificates of appreciation. 

Dr. al-Mutawaa noted that recently the ministry has started discussions on this subject again. She told, “Now we are proposing a specific distance from the building for smoking. This is what we discussed last week. We also had a discussion with the officials of various establishments and we are planning to send a letter in this regard to these facilities.”

“For some of the malls and other big establishments, a small distance like 20 metres is not a suitable idea. It has to be more distant. We are looking to have a distance excluding the parking areas. This is what we are working out. Once it is signed by the officials of the ministry, it will be sent to all the malls.” 

The official stated that a common complaint about some facilities is that people line up near the entrance and smoke which is quite disturbing for other people.

“As soon as people want to smoke, they come out of the place and stand at the entrances and smoke. This has to be avoided as it disturbs other visitors to this place,” she added.

The official also revealed that there are plans to conduct a study on the impacts of second hand smoke and the whole process might start soon.

By Molten Metal• 22 Apr 2016 10:42
Molten Metal

WT, Now who will do the important correction in your case ? ............ Totally rotten .............

If you did not learn today you will NEVER learn ... ..... it's golden chance .... you missed it at your home / school .............

By Wild Turkey• 22 Apr 2016 10:39
Wild Turkey

It really isn't up to you to tell others what to do, MM!

By Molten Metal• 22 Apr 2016 10:37
Molten Metal

All QLers should focus on the subject please ...

http://www.qatarliving.com/forum/qatar-living-lounge/posts/discussing-other-people

By Wild Turkey• 22 Apr 2016 10:36
Wild Turkey

"I ALWAYS answer with a view." - Really? Most of the time your first comment is:" What's your location?" And then you normally say:" Joys to all." You rarely give any robust advice. It surely is pure idiocy what you produce, MM. Joys.

By britexpat• 22 Apr 2016 10:35
britexpat

MM: I apologise if you feel that I have isulted you..

However, I must also say that in my opinion , you tend to spoil the thread by multiple posts , rather than allowing a discussion to flow and others to participate.

Obviously you feel that you are in the right and I cannot make you see otherwise.

So, I would suggest that we leave things as they are and I will make sure that I do not answer directly to your comments any longer ...

By Molten Metal• 22 Apr 2016 10:32
Molten Metal

Okay regarding smoking, suppose a Father smokes but he cares for his child & protects the child from the dangers of tobacco. Here father is half right / half wrong ....... why the father is playing with his health , risking damage to his lungs ..... does the father not depriving his child from a healthy & long living father

by smoking for the thrill of it .......... ? .... It means father has no worries for his dependents if he has to leave 5 - 10 years earlier from this world ........

By Molten Metal• 22 Apr 2016 10:26
Molten Metal

Another QLer identified the WT's views with '' garbage '' at another forum but there also you did nothing !!! ..........

By Molten Metal• 22 Apr 2016 10:23
Molten Metal

RizkI says

'' i think first you need to be treated in Rumailah Hospital....''

Did you say a word to him ? .............. Is it not an insult ?

For you it seems nothing because it's not from MM ......

How do you choose the QLers for correction , let me know ? ................

By Molten Metal• 22 Apr 2016 10:18
Molten Metal

Brit, Till today I put a capital B for your ID ........ You failed to notice that, it was a sign of respect ........ today you lost it .............

I checked the meaning of Idiocy : It says '' extremely stupid behaviour. '' ..........

I ALWAYS answer with a view / comment not an Abusive WORD as in your case ..........

Hope you would be able recognize who is stupid here ........

By britexpat• 22 Apr 2016 10:17
britexpat

MM: I never take sides - but surely its time to say enough and move on ....

Focus on the discussions , not the person posting the comment..

By Molten Metal• 22 Apr 2016 10:02
Molten Metal

Did not you read the what Shuaibh wants to say ?

Read it here ....'' It's an open forum where people can put forth their views/opinions and everybody is entitled to their opinions. So enforcing your views on others is not right. Let's have a positive discussion. ''

By Molten Metal• 22 Apr 2016 09:59
Molten Metal

Brit, It's Zack who uses foul words but strangely you turn a blind eye to some others as well ......... Should you be reminded about the joker of QL ........ Should I mention his name ? ......... It's YOU who wants to polarize the QLers , nobody else ...... You spoiled them ..........

By britexpat• 22 Apr 2016 09:52
britexpat

MM: Daily you come on and post insults to others you disagree with. You never offer concrete solutions to questions except generic comments

Surely its time to stop this idiocy and actually participate properly as a QL member and discuss issues

By Molten Metal• 22 Apr 2016 09:36
Molten Metal

Shuaib, That's what I wish to convey to our dear friend Mr Rizk. I understand he can't take much load due to his deficiencies ............ His intention is stop the person from posting the new & more relevant views ...... actually that's why he fails to understand the point put forth by the other QLers .......... I wish he improves by next Friday ...........

By shuaibh• 22 Apr 2016 09:09
shuaibh

MM: This isn't a competition where one wins or looses. It's an open forum where people can put forth their views/opinions and everybody is entitled to their opinions. So enforcing your views on others is not right. Let's have a positive discussion.

By Molten Metal• 22 Apr 2016 08:36
Molten Metal

Remove jealousy from your mind this world will look better for you ................. You can NOT win with your style of groupings ............. it's your clear DEFEAT when you ask me to stop posting .......... it's clear you lost, you can't discuss anymore ............. The sad part is you are more happier with accepting your defeat ............

By Rizks• 21 Apr 2016 13:08
Rizks

MM, you should be in fact thankful to us for bearing your multiple comments which make no sense at all but still we try to digest it ! :(

Anywayz, back to the topic please........

By Molten Metal• 21 Apr 2016 11:40
Molten Metal

Exactly Shuaibh, But this group is not listening what ever you tell them ............ specially Rizk, WT, Wuna Zack +++ ..... ....

By acchabaccha• 21 Apr 2016 11:37
acchabaccha

Possibly, like with all other philosophers, people might get to understand his philosophy after he passes away. Then a statue will be put up for the world to remember how great he was! 0)-

By shuaibh• 21 Apr 2016 11:30
shuaibh

Wise men speak because they have something to say; fools because they have to say something.

By Mufti Shahid• 21 Apr 2016 11:29
Mufti Shahid

MM has surpassed all the great philosophers like Aristotle, Plato,Avicenna, Confucius etc. No one understands what he writes here.

By Molten Metal• 21 Apr 2016 11:16
Molten Metal

Rizk, That's first reaction from a clever fellow ...... he will find fault with good advice giver ........ that's natural , I forgave you ...........

By Rizks• 21 Apr 2016 11:13
Rizks

after reading all your comments MM, I think first you need to be treated in Rumailah Hospital....:(

By Molten Metal• 21 Apr 2016 10:57
Molten Metal

We must take the lesson . For example we spend 15 years for study ........ do we go back to school when we study at college ..... no ....... because we have understood what was taught us there before ....... same way when you are banned smoking in the malls, hotels , major public buildings ... ...... would you again think that in your privacy you still can smoke ? .............. NO ...... my pal you must take the hint ............... no smoking out side & no smoking in side ............... no public smoking & no private smoking ..........

By britexpat• 21 Apr 2016 10:52
britexpat

Ok.. What you say is feasible.. What happens if I ask you to stop smokimng and you don't ....

By Molten Metal• 21 Apr 2016 10:48
Molten Metal

Brit, We should not fix limits to our health ........... we need to go three steps ahead ......... quit smoking yourself, get your family agree with you plus the folks who come in contact with you ..... be it at home / work / road ............

By britexpat• 21 Apr 2016 10:45
britexpat

MM: Why don't you take a breath and go up and see the title of the post ...

The Minsitry , which is the Qatari government is taking steps to ban smoking in certain places only

By Rizks• 21 Apr 2016 10:44
Rizks

I will use Elevator.....Simple ! :(

By Molten Metal• 21 Apr 2016 10:43
Molten Metal

If you see a tall steel tower , would you start climbing up 200 metres straight away ? ...... No. ........ because you will get nothing plus the risk of death ........ what would you call to a fellow who just argues that yes I shall sure go up this tower because it's my choice .......... !! plus he would say no I would not allow my kid to climb up the tower becuse of the dangers .......

what this fellow wants to prove to the society ? .... is he wise or is he a fool ? ............

By Rizks• 21 Apr 2016 10:42
Rizks

I know it might be HARD for you, but give it a try - m sure you can do it ! :(

By Rizks• 21 Apr 2016 10:42
Rizks

MM first and foremost you make up your mind wat actually you want to comment and just comment in one single GO ! :(

thank you

By Molten Metal• 21 Apr 2016 10:36
Molten Metal

Rizk, It means you know nothing when you tell { misguide } people that smoking is your choice ........... No human should smoke .......

By Rizks• 21 Apr 2016 10:34
Rizks

" then they must be masters in computer soft ware / car fuel injection system / air craft repair in-flight ................. !!!" .................WHATTTTTT ??????

By Molten Metal• 21 Apr 2016 10:33
Molten Metal

Humans have the ability to differentiate between what is good or what is bad based on their limited knowledge. If most adults know what to smoke or what not ....... then they must be masters in computer soft ware / car fuel injection system / air craft repair in-flight ................. !!!

By britexpat• 21 Apr 2016 10:26
britexpat

MM: If you want to smoke, then it is none of my business.

If you smoke near me or my children, then I will object

By Molten Metal• 21 Apr 2016 10:21
Molten Metal

Birt, Are you joking ? You are not caring for yourself but wants to become wise for the young, it's ridiculous ..........

By Molten Metal• 21 Apr 2016 10:17
Molten Metal

Zam, Smokers will have smoking kids, that's natural ....... untill this chain is broken some where ........

By Zam Zam• 21 Apr 2016 09:53
Zam Zam

Brit... it is not a crime.... it is a suicide and murder ....

By britexpat• 12 Apr 2016 08:50
britexpat

Zam Zam: Smoking is not a crime and is a personal choice. I agree with you about the dangers of passive smoking. We all need to be needful of protecting the young

By Zam Zam• 12 Apr 2016 08:45
Zam Zam

I would say... smokers has No Brain..... if they have brain... at least they will avoid smoking next to their own children...

By dohaplanner• 25 Feb 2016 09:32
dohaplanner

Nas: You are very correct, Smoking is not a crime to the smokers but injurious and disgusting to non-smokers to perceive. This post does not refer to smoking as a crime but simply tells us there should be restricted areas for smoking which to me is understandable.

By Nas-Ghey• 25 Feb 2016 09:06
Nas-Ghey

what about rights of Smokers, why would they be punished, 50 degrees in summer stand somewhere more than 20 meters in Sun and smoke. when will we start doing something real than cosmetic. Smoking is not a crime. Come on spend your energy on something better..

By mr perfect• 24 Feb 2016 18:43
mr perfect

And to be stopped while driving.

By bitstoms• 24 Feb 2016 18:16
bitstoms

If ...

It will be one of the best decision in 2016.

You have to ban the smoking in roads also...

Assign special places for smoking, which is successfully done by Saudi arabia, and this will create thing.

By Nanofilm• 24 Feb 2016 17:47
Nanofilm

Families of sponsored residents may enter Qatar on a short-term Family Visit Visa. However, the visa is initially valid only for one month.

Relatives who wish to stay longer than a month may undergo a physical examination within the first 72 hours of arrival to apply for an extension.

The visa can be extended for another five months for first and second degree relatives and in-laws (Father, Mother, Sister & Children) and can be extended for only two months in case of other relatives. Foreign employees who wish to bring their families to live in Qatar should refer to the Family Visa.

Application Process

Follow these steps to apply for a Family Visit Visa:

- Print and fill out form and submit personally by the sponsor.

- Submit the application along with supporting documents to the Passports Department. (DOWNLOAD application form)

- Pay appropriate fees (more details about fees below)

Requirements for applying visa for wife:

- Copy of personal ID or passport of the resident husband

- Letter from husband's employer citing profession and salary

- Copy of attested marriage contract

- Copy of wife's valid passport

Requirements for applying visa for other relatives (Father, mother, sister, children and in-laws):

- Copy of personal ID or passport of the sponsor.

- Copy of sponsor's wife's passport with valid residence permit or residential tenancy contract.

- Letter from employer of the sponsor citing profession and salary.

- Valid passport copy of the visitor.

- Document to prove relationship.

- Undergo medial test within 72 hours entering the country in case you're willing to extend for more than a month.

Fees

A fee of QR200 applies for each visa, and QR50 for each registered dependent or companion. The visa is valid for one month and can be extended for QR200 per month (QR50 per month for the companion).

--

By dohaplanner• 24 Feb 2016 17:45
dohaplanner

And to be stopped while driving.

By britexpat• 24 Feb 2016 17:26
britexpat

I believe the answer is 'won't'

By superuser• 24 Feb 2016 17:19
superuser

Lol... A new law! what happened to the old one?? the one that prohibits from smoking inside the Malls. Step into any Mall and look outside the coffee shops, you'll see how serious the ministry is to actually enforce the law. There should be ministry officials on mandatory duties in all malls imposing fines at the spot. If you want to report someone smoking there is no hotline number. if you take a picture of someone it's the violation of personal rights of the violator... why don't they use the security cams and identify the people who don't respect the law. Is it something they can't do OR won't do!

By Zam Zam• 24 Feb 2016 15:38
Zam Zam

I will capture and upload to Metrash2 for sure....

By britexpat• 24 Feb 2016 15:34
britexpat

They should ban Rizks' Tuk Tuk

By Mufti Shahid• 24 Feb 2016 15:25
Mufti Shahid

It is right, some of the TATA buses are with out ACs.

By Mufti Shahid• 24 Feb 2016 15:25
Mufti Shahid

It is right, some of the TATA buses are with out ACs.

By Basheer mhm• 24 Feb 2016 14:35
Basheer mhm

Need to be strictly implement inside office also

By Wild Turkey• 24 Feb 2016 14:12
Wild Turkey

What a cheap stereotype comment.

By Rizks• 24 Feb 2016 14:01
Rizks

WT don't expect more !

Live with it Or Lieave and GO ! :)

By britexpat• 24 Feb 2016 13:14
britexpat

Come on WT... Next you will be asking for A/Cs in Tata busues

By Wild Turkey• 24 Feb 2016 12:46
Wild Turkey

And stop construction in residential areas. People are suffocating from the cement dust in the air.

By Wild Turkey• 24 Feb 2016 12:38
Wild Turkey

They should also impose a ban on Tata diesel buses. At least, keep them a hundred meters away from any other car.

By Rizks• 24 Feb 2016 12:00
Rizks

my Emporium is STRICTLY a No Smoking ZONE ! :)

By Rizks• 24 Feb 2016 12:00
Rizks

my Emporium is STRICTLY a No Smoking ZONE ! :)

By britexpat• 24 Feb 2016 11:56
britexpat

Making laws is one thing. Enforcement another. I hope the authorities will also take steps to enforce the laws

By Zam Zam• 24 Feb 2016 11:41
Zam Zam

This is one of the best thing.... Qatar did..... Few months ago.... I complaint to LULU about smoking at entrance..... they seams don't care....

Log in or register to post comments

More from Qatar Living

Qatar’s top beaches for water sports thrills

Qatar’s top beaches for water sports thrills

Let's dive into the best beaches in Qatar, where you can have a blast with water activities, sports and all around fun times.
Most Useful Apps In Qatar - Part Two

Most Useful Apps In Qatar - Part Two

This guide brings you the top apps that will simplify the use of government services in Qatar.
Most Useful Apps In Qatar - Part One

Most Useful Apps In Qatar - Part One

this guide presents the top must-have Qatar-based apps to help you navigate, dine, explore, access government services, and more in the country.
Winter is coming – Qatar’s seasonal adventures await!

Winter is coming – Qatar’s seasonal adventures await!

Qatar's winter months are brimming with unmissable experiences, from the AFC Asian Cup 2023 to the World Aquatics Championships Doha 2024 and a variety of outdoor adventures and cultural delights.
7 Days of Fun: One-Week Activity Plan for Kids

7 Days of Fun: One-Week Activity Plan for Kids

Stuck with a week-long holiday and bored kids? We've got a one week activity plan for fun, learning, and lasting memories.
Wallet-friendly Mango Sticky Rice restaurants that are delightful on a budget

Wallet-friendly Mango Sticky Rice restaurants that are delightful on a budget

Fasten your seatbelts and get ready for a sweet escape into the world of budget-friendly Mango Sticky Rice that's sure to satisfy both your cravings and your budget!
Places to enjoy Mango Sticky Rice in  high-end elegance

Places to enjoy Mango Sticky Rice in high-end elegance

Delve into a world of culinary luxury as we explore the upmarket hotels and fine dining restaurants serving exquisite Mango Sticky Rice.
Where to celebrate World Vegan Day in Qatar

Where to celebrate World Vegan Day in Qatar

Celebrate World Vegan Day with our list of vegan food outlets offering an array of delectable options, spanning from colorful salads to savory shawarma and indulgent desserts.