Pounds for gold

Surrounded by good food but engaging in little exercise has driven obesity up in the Gulf countries. Hence, the government has launched its health campaign, "Your Weight in Gold." This new crusade pledges one gramme of gold for every kilo that is lost. But it should be a minimum of two kilos (4.6 pounds) of weight lost by August 16.

The campaign has been made to coincide with Ramadan, which ends in August. Three winners will be chosen, and each will 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, and should be guided by dietitians. They are not to employ unhealthy methods to lose the weight. (Photo of Dubai Mall courtesy of Paul Wilhelm)