Panel discussion: Driving change - accelerating harm reduction in the Middle East
This session brings together legal and regulatory experts, public health researchers, industry innovators, and consumer advocates to explore how the Middle East can advance safer nicotine products. Panellists will discuss market trends, the rise of novel nicotine alternatives, evolving regulatory and taxation strategies, enforcement challenges, and regional public health priorities. The session will consider scientific evidence for harm reduction in a regional context and identify concrete steps to improve access to harm-reduction products and accelerate the transition toward a smokefree future in the GCC.
Session Speakers
Manoj researches drinks and tobacco, dairy products and alternatives,
and non-alcoholic drinks for markets in the Middle East. He also writes
content promoting insights and thought leadership discussion.
Manoj advises clients across the GCC on his focus industries, with a special interest in different consumer behaviour patterns across the region's dynamic economic landscape. Manoj has over 14 years of experience in research, having previously worked in B2B regionally in the Middle East and North Africa, and locally, on the client side with Al Ain Dairy supporting in sales reporting and strategic decision-making.
Christopher Russell, Ph.D. is a behavioural scientist and Director of Russell Burnett Research and Consultancy Ltd (RBRC), Glasgow, United Kingdom. Dr Russell leads the design, conduct, and reporting of perception and behavioural research studies of reduced-risk tobaccoand nicotine products, including electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS, vaping products), heated tobacco products, and modern oral products (e.g., nicotine pouches, film strips). RBRC’s studies are designed to inform regulatory evaluations of the potential impact of marketing a new tobacco/nicotine product on future tobacco use behaviour and population health.
When I first launched Yalla, my vision was to create a vape brand that truly represented the Middle East—a brand we could proudly call our own. I wanted it to reflect the region’s rich culture, vibrant society, and growing success, while offering something unique and innovative in the market.
Our core mission is to help people quit smoking by offering a range of alternative nicotine delivery products. We don’t see ourselves as just a vape brand, but rather as an alternative nicotine solutions provider. We’re constantly exploring innovative ways to support people in their journey to quit smoking.
