Why Quitting Smoking in the GCC Is More Accessible Than Ever

With growing support and awareness, quitting smoking in the GCC is more accessible than ever. On World No Tobacco Day, May 31, regional initiatives, clinics, and digital tools are making it easier for residents to kick the habit and embrace healthier, smoke-free lives. 

Quit for Good: Why Quitting Smoking in the GCC Is More Accessible Than Ever 

Across the GCC, a wave of support for smoking cessation is gaining momentum. These services and programs provide smokers with the tools they need to quit effectively, affordably, and sustainably. Here are ten ways quitting has never been more within reach. 

1. SEHA Smoking Cessation Clinics – Abu Dhabi 

SEHA offers free smoking cessation programs across public hospitals. Services include counseling, nicotine replacement therapy, and follow-ups—making quitting easy and accessible. 

2. Ministry of Health Quitline – Saudi Arabia 

Call 937 to access trained specialists offering daily support, free resources, and personalized quit plans—available in both Arabic and English. This confidential service ensures smokers receive culturally sensitive guidance every step of the way. 

3. Al Sidra Smoking Cessation Clinic – Qatar 

This dedicated clinic in Doha offers group and individual therapy, medication, and expert support tailored to each patient’s needs. It also provides follow-up sessions to help patients stay committed to their quit journey. 

4. Dubai Health Authority Quit Centers – UAE 

Multiple DHA-run clinics provide free consultations, medication support, and educational sessions focused on long-term tobacco cessation. These centers also integrate behavioral counseling to address both physical and psychological addiction. 

5. Bahrain Anti-Smoking Program 

The Ministry of Health offers free cessation clinics, awareness campaigns, and youth-focused education to reduce tobacco use in the kingdom. It actively partners with schools and community centers to spread anti-smoking messages at the grassroots level. 

6. Kuwait Smoking Cessation Services 

Clinics run by Kuwait’s Ministry of Health include psychological support, medication access, and mobile awareness programs across urban centers. They also offer personalized quit plans tailored to each individual's smoking habits and health goals. 

7. Oman Quit Tobacco Campaign 

Run by the Ministry of Health, the campaign combines in-person counseling, nicotine patches, and school outreach programs to lower smoking rates. 

8. "QuitNow" Mobile App – Regional 

This GCC-approved app offers tips, motivation tracking, progress monitoring, and 24/7 support for people trying to quit. Its user-friendly interface and real-time notifications help users stay accountable and encouraged throughout their quit journey. 

9. Worksite Quit Programs – GCC-Wide 

Many employers now offer in-office counseling sessions and paid leave for smokers attending cessation programs, reducing workplace tobacco use. 

10. Public Awareness Campaigns – All GCC Nations 

Year-round campaigns on social media, TV, and billboards promote the benefits of quitting, with resources highlighted on World No Tobacco Day. These initiatives aim to change public perceptions, reduce stigma, and inspire smokers to seek support. 

As quitting smoking in the GCC becomes more accessible than ever, there’s never been a better time to take the first step. With regional support growing stronger each year, World No Tobacco Day is your call to breathe easier—and live longer. 

This article was previously published on UAE Moments. To see the original article, click here