Stiff penalty now imposed for spitting in public in Abu Dhabi

The next time you feel an urge to spit gum or throw cigarette butts on public streets in Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), think twice as you could end up paying a 500 Dirhams (over P5,500) fine. A report of "Emirates 25/7" on Monday said a maximum fine of Dh500 is now being imposed for spitting, throwing cigarette butts or any waste, or spitting gum on public streets in Abu Dhabi, where many Filipinos reside. Citing a municipality statement in Al Khaleej, the report said, “The offending person will be accountable and the fine will start at Dh100 for spitting, Dh500 for throwing chewing gum, Dh200 for throwing cigarette butts, and Dh500 for waste like water bottles, cans or paper waste." An awareness campaign with the slogan "Keep the city of Abu Dhabi clean" will also soon be launched, the report said. Brochures about the campaign will be printed in Arabic, English, Urdu, and Hindi. - VVP, GMA News