Zuma has introduced a ban on smoking cigars in its bar and lounge areas in the evenings, following on from a similar ban already in place affecting lunch service.
The restaurant introduced the lunchtime ban in April 2013, although cigarettes are still allowed during both meal times within these areas.
"Whilst we don't wish to intentionally alienate any of our guests, it was becoming increasingly hard to justify cigar smoking in the Zuma bar and lounge in the evenings, with growing numbers of complaints, especially from females,” said Zuma Middle East and Turkey managing director Ajaz Sheikh.
“Irrespective, of government laws, I felt it was necessary to lead the way in terms of banning cigars in all areas of Zuma at all times of day and I'm confident that other fine-dining venues will follow.
“It will be interesting to see how quickly Dubai falls into line will with other global culinary centres in terms of anti-smoking legislation."
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The UAE's Ministry of Health’s new regulations covering the sale and promotion of tobacco came into effect on January 21. Under the new laws, shisha cafes have to be at least 150 metres away from residential areas, while their working hours are also restricted.
In addition to this, it is forbidden to sell tobacco products in locations that are 100 metres away from places of worship, and 15 metres away from kindergartens, schools, universities and colleges.
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