Al Qasba, a premier leisure destination in Sharjah has introduced a smoke free policy and will create smoke free zones to help maintain a clean air environment for all those visiting its many restaurants, coffee shops, art galleries and attractions.

Al Qasba will implement this very important policy on 8th January 2012 and 'No Smoking' signs will be posted in prominent positions and areas.

The smoke-free policy is aimed to eliminate cigarette smoke pollution which is not only harmful to those who frequent its premises but also the atmosphere.

Al Qasba accepts the diversity of people and their needs; therefore there will still be a designated area for smoking which can be found along the Canal and just outside of the premises.

Ahmed Al Qaseer Chief Operating Officer of the Al Qasba Development Authority said: "We are happy to announce that Al Qasba will be a smoke free zone for all of its visitors, and this is in line with our healthy environment ethos."

Smoking is the single greatest cause of preventable deaths globally. It can lead to many diseases affecting the heart and lungs. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that smoking has caused 5.4 million deaths in 2004 and 100 million deaths over the course of the 20th century. 

There is also increasing evidence that second hand smoke in the environment or passive smoking as it's called is as harmful and leads to the same types of diseases.

"Therefore aware of our corporate responsibilities we took the unprecedented step to implement a smoke free healthy environment. We also listened to essential feedback from our customers who have expressed the need to make Al Qasba, which is a family orientated place to be a smoke free zone. Our aim is to ensure that we maintain its reputation as a healthy safe place where people can gather for leisure activities," he added.

Al Qasba known for its picturesque waterfront areas is a leisure destination where you can discover the highlights of contemporary Arabian arts and culture. It's a place where not only families and friends gather, but also where many business meetings can be held in beautiful relaxed surroundings.