Introduction
It is a city recognised for its cutting-edge developments, strict legislation and values rooted in culture and religion. Vaping is not banned in the UAE, but there are strict rules and regulations regarding the use of e-cigarettes that residents and tourists must adhere to. Drag your feet on these tasks, however, and you could be paying a hefty fine, facing legal consequences or both.
When and where it is acceptable to vape is important for legal reasons, sure, but also just to respect local norms. This guide can help you learn about what’s legal and what’s not when vaping in Dubai, explore vape-friendly places to take your device and stay within the law while enjoying vaping in Dubai.
Understanding Vaping Laws in Dubai
Vaping is legal in the U.A.E. but heavily restricted. The sale, use and import of e-cigarettes and vape products were formally allowed in April 2019, under UAE Cabinet Decision No. 24 of 2019, although their use in public is strict regulations.
Here’s what you need to know:
- The Legal Status: You are allowed to purchase and use the vape devices and e-liquids through the licensed shops in the UAE. There are restrictions on importing vape products from outside (especially via couriers), which can be seized if they don’t meet UAE standards.
- Use in Public Places: Vaping in public places is regulated in compliance with Federal Law No. 15 of 2009 to the same level as smoking. That means no smoking in public transportation, offices, shopping malls (except in designated areas), hospitals, schools, or religious places.
- Punishment: Vaping at places outside designated areas can carry fines of up to AED 2,000. Subsequent offences or disregard for law officials can result in more severe penalties.
Where to Vape in Dubai (Legally & Safely)
To be comfortable vaping in Dubai, one has to stick with the locations that permit vaping clearly or provide tailored zones. Here are the best options:
A. Smoking Zones in Public Areas
Designated smoking areas in major public areas in Dubai are thoughtful in the way they hold up for non-smokers.
- Dubai Mall & Mall of the Emirates: Both these malls have designated smoking areas, which are clearly marked and can usually be found near a car parking area or on the roof. The only places that are designated for vaping.
- Dubai International Airport (DXB): All terminals have vaping lounges and smoking rooms. These are among the very few indoor spaces where it is still legal to vape.
- Parks & Recreational Areas: Some of the parks, such as Zabeel Park and Al Barsha Pond Park, have designated smoking corners, and vaping is allowed.
B. Places to Vape: Vape-Friendly Coffee Shops & Lounges
Of course, some Dubai cafes and lounges have no problem with e-cig users and especially in non-strict areas, where they are allowed to vape:
- Shisha Lounges: Most shisha cafes in the Jumeirah, Al Wasl and Business Bay areas allow vaping. But always check with the staff before vaping indoors.
- Vape Cafes: Vape enthusiasts are also liking specialty spots such as the ones in Al Quoz, JLT, and Motor City. These cafes have a chill and vape-testing area that has become popular with vape enthusiasts.
C. Private Residences & Hotel Rooms
You can also vape in your home or your apartment. For tourists or business travellers:
- Hotel Policies: Some hotels have smoking rooms or balconies available where vaping may be permitted. Every traveller should always check during the booking process or upon arrival to avoid penalties from the hotel.
- Vacation Rentals: If you are staying in an Airbnb or other short-term rental, there may be fewer restrictions, although it is still polite to ask your host or consult the house rules.
D. Inside Vape Shops
The majority of them also have tiny taster/tester areas in most of the good Dubai vape shops:
- In legal retail outlets, you can try out flavours under staff supervision.
- These venues are 100% legal and open safe zones where you can test out new tastes and devices without worrying about getting fined.
Available E-Cigarette/Vape in UAE
Where Vaping Is Banned Outright
- Public transport: All buses, metro trains, taxis and trams are smoke-free, including vaping. Violations are heavily fined.
- Government Buildings & Offices: Vaping is banned in all local and federal offices.
- Health and Education Sites: Vaping is prohibited around and inside hospitals, clinics, schools and universities.
- Religious Sites & Beaches: No mosques (mosques and the vicinity are off-limits). Beaches and outdoor destinations like La Mer or Kite Beach might have signs that say no smoking/vaping; check before lighting up, but in general, the city’s landmarks and attractions are accessible to smokers.
How to Spot Fake IQOS Heets and TEREA in the UAEHow to Spot Fake IQOS Heets and TEREA in the UAE
Responsible Vaping in Dubai – What You Need to Know
To ensure a hassle-free vaping experience, adopting the following smart and considerate behaviour should become second nature.
- Signage: Always look for signs that say “No Smoking” or “Smoking Area” before you hit the vape.
- Be Stealthy: Do not vape massive clouds in public. Choose small units with minimal vapour production if in doubt.
- If In Doubt, Ask: Best whether in a café, hotel, or mall, to ask the staff if vaping is permitted.
- Responsible Disposal: Never litter vape pods or devices. Dispose of your phone at appropriate e-waste bins if there are any available.
What Happens If You Hit the Vape in a No-Vaping Zone?
Smoking e-cigarettes in banned areas can get you more than frowned upon in Dubai. Vape violations are the same as smoking offences and come with immediate consequences.
- Fines: Being caught vaping in a banned spot can result in on-the-spot fines as high as AED 2,000. Repeat offences may also expose offenders to increased fines or further action in court.
- Confiscation: Law enforcement can take your vape device if you are caught vaping in unauthorised areas, especially if it is an imported and/or unregistered product.
- Handling Police/Officials: Stay calm and be respectful if police or security approach you. Apologise if necessary and stay away from a confrontation. In a large number of instances, courtesy and cooperation will avoid any untoward results.
Pro tip: Do yourself a favour—vape only in designated areas.
Find a Legitimate and Reliable Vape Store in Dubai
If you want to keep it legal, only ever buy your vape kit from licensed and reputable vendors inside the UAE.
- Terea Iluma Abu Dhabi is a trusted source for nicotine salt e-juice, disposable vapes, and vape pod devices in the UAE that meet local regulatory standards for quality and authentic nic salts. They are designed to provide quick delivery throughout all the Emirates—Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah.
- Steer clear of the grey market and unauthorised dealers (this includes those on social media and unauthorised online platforms). Purchasing unregistered or non-officially approved devices (including imports) may result in a fine or confiscation.
- Tourists should not take vape products into Dubai until they have checked the customs rules. Certain items may be seized at the airport if they don’t comply with U.A.E. standards.
The Bottom Line: Vape Smart, Not Scary
Dubai is a modern, hospitable city – but also a city where the law is rigorously enforced. If you stick to where it is legal to vape, respect the public places, and buy from legitimate sources, you should have no issues vaping in this state.
An informed vaper is a vaper with fewer surprises and no legal stress, and will gain peace of mind, regardless of whether you are a resident or visitor.
Heat, not burn, tobacco products (Real Tobacco No E-liquid)
- IQOS ILUMA → Heated tobacco device (TEREA sticks)
- IQOS LIL SOLID → Tobacco heating system (Fiit sticks or HEETS, depending on the device)
- IQOS HEETS → Sticks (THP, for IQOS and its counterparts)
- IQOS TEREA → only used with IQOS ILUMA
FAQ
Are tourists allowed to vape in Dubai?
Yes, tourists can vape; however, it is only permitted in places allocated for it. Remember to respect the local laws and not to vape in public transportation or government areas.
Are disposable vapes legal in Dubai?
Yes, you can bring disposable vapes such as NERD BAR, Vape Bar Ghost Pro, etc, as long as you bought them from licensed retailers in the UAE.
How old do I have to be to buy vape products in the UAE?
You need to be at least 21 years old to buy vape products or e-liquids in Dubai or anywhere else in the UAE.
