Shedding weight in Dubai is being rewarded in gold under a new
initiative by the municipality of the Gulf emirate aimed at
fighting obesity, local newspapers reported on
Wednesday.
"Your Weight in Gold" is the title of a campaign promising one
gramme of gold for every kilo shed, provided a minimum of two kilos
(4.6 pounds) of weight are lost by August 16.
The campaign coincides with the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan,
which ends before mid-August.
During Ramadan, the faithful refrain from eating, drinking and
smoking between dawn and sunset.
But many tend to tuck in heartily after dark, despite warnings that
overindulgence can be bad for the health.
The three campaign-winning losers will each receive a gold coin
worth 20,000 dirhams ($5,449) through a lucky draw. Other weight
losers will share gold coins worth 200,000 dirhams.
Participants will be required to use scales installed in public
parks, will receive guidance from dietitians and will have to
pledge not to use unhealthy methods to lose the weight.
Many Gulf countries are struggling to reduce the level of obesity
among their populations.