Riyadh, 26 June-(ANA)-Hundreds of young grooms in Saudi Arabia have expressed their interest in the first anti-smoking drive designed to entice young grooms to give up smoking by offering an attractive incentive.
The catchy slogan, "Kicking the habit is on you, and marriage is on us," has impressed so many that one in particular has been quoted as saying he is ready to take up smoking just to be eligible for the grand prize - an all-expenses-paid wedding.
In much of the Arab world, the groom alone bears the cost of getting married, including an expensive party, a dowry and a fully furnished house. Men often put off marriage until they've saved enough money to take a bride.
Several commentators have complained that the campaign is turning women into a commodity, but organizers have taken the criticism in stride, saying they're thrilled to get people talking about the dangers of smoking.
About one quarter of Saudi Arabia's 27.6 million residents indulge in smoking.
Since June 20, banners have gone up on overpasses and bridges over the Saudi capital's major highways, depicting the campaign slogan in pink and reddish brown.
The quit-smoking-drive is also being advertised in malls, at universities and in magazines.
The organizer, a local charity called Purity, stipulates that the marriage is the man's first and that he has a recent marriage contract. In Islam, the contract is usually signed before a couple moves in together.
A draw on Aug. 6 will include the names of the men who successfully quit smoking in a weeklong course. The winner will have all wedding expenses paid while 20 runners-up will get free furniture.
Sulaiman al-Soby, secretary general of Purity, said the aim is to create a smoke-free family. One-third of Saudi school children live in homes with smokers, according to a 2007 health survey.
Al-Soby said he expects thousands to take part in the campaign, which only covers the capital Riyadh, a metropolis of 5 million.(ANA)
UK/Houthis