Kuwait smoking ban 'good for restaurant business'

A recently-announced smoking ban in public places, including restaurants, cafes and hotels, but exempting shisha parlours, is a positive step, according to Moevenpick. 

Originally there was a fear the could have a negative impact on F&B businesses, but Ali Al-Hajeri, ministry official, has said the ban does not apply to designated smoking areas in cafes, restaurants and malls as long as these areas are separate from their immediate surroundings.

Director of sales and marketing at Mövenpick Resort Kuwait al Bidaat, Mohamed Ibrahim, said: "The ban has not yet been officially issued, but it will not affect smoking in outdoor areas - it will restrict smoking cigarettes and cigars indoors.

"I do not think it will affect our business at all, in fact I think it is a plus point. We are a certified Green Globe hotel, a certification we got last year, and the non-smoking policy will help enhance our image."