Badael Reports 700,000 Smoking Quitters in Saudi Arabia, Enabled by DZRT
Within this broader transition, internal data indicates that approximately 200,000 adults have subsequently exited nicotine use altogether. This outcome highlights the depth of behavioral change, extending beyond smoking cessation alone and demonstrating longer-term transition and exit from nicotine use.
The pace of progress has accelerated significantly. In January 2025, Badael reported that 400,000 people had quit smoking. Reaching 700,000 by year-end underscores the scale and momentum of switching away from cigarettes, driven by informed adult choice, responsible alternatives, and a sustained commitment to harm reduction.
Badael supports this shift through the development and manufacturing of DZRT, a tobacco-free nicotine pouch designed to help adult smokers move away from combustible tobacco. Since its introduction, DZRT has played a central role in supporting smokers to reduce and eliminate cigarette use, within a responsibility-led framework focused on adult choice, quality standards, and long-term outcomes.
“This milestone reflects the purpose for which Badael was established,” said Tolga Sezer, Chief Executive Officer of Badael.
“It is not about promotion or short-term adoption. It is about enabling real behavioral change. DZRT has supported many adult smokers in taking the first step away from combustion, and the fact that 200,000 people have gone on to quit nicotine entirely demonstrates the depth of impact, not just reach.”
Building on this momentum, Badael reaffirmed its ambition to support one million people in Saudi Arabia to quit smoking by 2028, noting that current progress indicates this target is achievable and may be reached ahead of schedule.
“As impact grows, responsibility grows with it,” added Sezer. “The next phase is more complex. Sustaining progress and supporting full nicotine exit at scale requires continued focus, accountability, and collaboration across the ecosystem.”
As Saudi Arabia advances toward a smoke-free future, Badael views this milestone not as completion, but as a measure of responsibility. The focus remains on sustaining long-term outcomes and on contributing meaningfully to national efforts to improve the quality of life across the Kingdom.
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