Smoking ban to affect shisha culture in UAE

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) announced that hookah, or shisha pipes, are banned in all indoor public places from 2012. Shisha culture, an important part in Arabic culture, will be affected consequently.The ban comes at a time of increasing smoking regulations throughout the Middle East - a region often seen as a smokers paradise where one can light up almost anywhere. Since 2009 though, this has been changing with international cities like Dubai in the UAE leading the charge.Smoking Shisha, a Middle-Eastern tradition that began over 500 years ago, is still popular in the Arab world today. Many Arabs like to spend their spare time in cafes with their family members or friends around hookah pipes. Due to the announced ban, cafes will have to move the pipes outdoors.Shisha tobacco, which is different from other kinds of tobacco, is given flavor by being soaked in a large amount of dried fruits, honeys and spices. Pieces of fruit, mint leaves, and crushed ice may be added to the pipe afterwards.This mixture tobacco is then placed inside the bowl at the head of the hookah pipe, and is then covered with tin foil. Burning charcoal is placed atop to heat the tobacco. Smoke is produced when the smoker inhales through the mouthpiece. The smoke is drawn through the water jar of the pipe, where the smoke is filtered and cooled. Sometimes, fruit juice may be added in the water jar instead of water for a more concentrated fruity flavor.In the UAE, even international cities like Dubai are filled with Shisha lounges. How the ban will affect their business will be seen in the coming year.