Adults only (18+)

Can You Vape in Dubai

Dubai is one of the most visited destinations in the world, known for its modern skyline, luxury lifestyle, and strict laws that ensure public order and safety. For travellers who vape, one of the most common questions is whether vaping is allowed in Dubai. The answer is yes, vaping is legal in Dubai and across the United Arab Emirates (UAE), but it is heavily regulated. There are important rules on where you can use your vape, how you travel with it, and what happens if you break the law.

While Dubai has relaxed its stance on e-cigarettes in recent years, it still enforces strict public behaviour and health standards. Understanding the local vaping laws will help you enjoy your trip without running into unnecessary trouble or fines.

The Legal Status of Vaping in Dubai

Vaping was banned in Dubai until 2019. The UAE government then lifted the nationwide ban, allowing the sale and use of e-cigarettes and vape devices under regulated conditions. The Emirates Authority for Standardisation and Metrology (ESMA) introduced new guidelines that allowed retailers to sell vaping products legally, provided they meet UAE safety and quality standards.

This means you can now buy and use vapes in Dubai, but the products must be registered, clearly labelled, and compliant with government regulations. Only licensed retailers can sell vaping products, and devices must not make unverified health claims or be marketed to minors.

Despite its legality, vaping is not as freely permitted in public as it might be in the UK or parts of Europe. The rules around where you can use your device are quite strict, and fines for vaping in prohibited areas can be severe.

Where You Can and Cannot Vape in Dubai

In Dubai, vaping is treated the same as smoking in public. You cannot vape in enclosed public spaces, government buildings, offices, public transport, hospitals, schools, or shopping malls. Using an e-cigarette in these areas can result in a fine of up to 2,000 dirhams.

Many hotels, restaurants, and bars have designated outdoor smoking areas where vaping is permitted. It is always best to check with staff before using your vape, as some establishments enforce their own stricter rules. Vaping indoors in a hotel room is usually not allowed unless specifically stated otherwise.

You are allowed to vape outdoors in open areas such as beaches, parks, and some outdoor café terraces, but always be discreet. Vaping in front of families, near mosques, or in crowded public spaces is considered inappropriate and may attract attention from local authorities.

Vaping at Dubai Airport

You cannot vape inside Dubai International Airport or any other airport in the UAE. However, there are dedicated smoking lounges in most terminals where vaping is permitted. Attempting to use your vape in any non-designated area within the airport could result in confiscation of your device or a fine.

When flying into Dubai, you can bring your vape with you for personal use, but you must follow airline safety rules. Vapes and batteries must be stored in your hand luggage and not checked in. E-liquids must follow the standard liquid restrictions, which means bottles must not exceed 100 millilitres each and must be kept in a clear resealable bag for security screening.

Buying Vape Products in Dubai

You can buy vape devices and e-liquids from licensed stores across Dubai. Vape shops are usually located in shopping centres or standalone outlets and sell products that comply with ESMA regulations. These include disposable vapes, refillable pod kits, and e-liquids in various nicotine strengths.

While there are no specific restrictions on flavours, products must carry proper warnings and packaging labels in both Arabic and English. The sale of vaping products to anyone under 18 is strictly prohibited. Retailers are required to check identification, and failure to comply can result in severe penalties.

If you plan to bring your own e-liquids from another country, it is important to ensure that the ingredients meet UAE import standards. You should also avoid carrying large quantities, as this may raise questions at customs about commercial intent.

Vaping in Hotels and Accommodation

Most hotels in Dubai prohibit smoking and vaping inside guest rooms due to strict fire and health regulations. Some higher-end hotels may have designated smoking rooms or outdoor terraces where vaping is allowed. Always check with your accommodation provider before using your vape, as violating no-smoking rules can lead to cleaning charges or fines.

If your room has a balcony, you may be allowed to vape outside, but keep in mind that hotel staff may still discourage it if the smoke or vapour drifts toward other rooms.

Vaping in Cars and Private Spaces

You can vape in a private vehicle in Dubai, provided you are not carrying minors or using your vape in a way that distracts you from driving. However, vaping in a rented car may be prohibited by the rental company, as vapour residue and smell can affect the vehicle’s condition.

It is also important to be mindful that vaping near children or pregnant women is strongly discouraged, even in private spaces. Dubai law focuses on protecting public health, and public exposure of children to vaping or smoking is frowned upon.

Vaping Etiquette and Public Behaviour

Dubai is known for its clean, orderly, and respectful social culture. Public behaviour is taken seriously, and vaping etiquette should reflect this. Avoid blowing large clouds in public, and never vape near families, religious sites, or government buildings.

When in doubt, follow the rule of discretion. Vaping discreetly outdoors, especially in less crowded areas, is generally acceptable. Always ask for permission in private establishments, even if you are outdoors.

Littering is also taken very seriously in Dubai. Throwing away used pods, coils, or empty bottles in public bins or on the street can lead to fines. Always dispose of your vaping waste responsibly.

Fines and Penalties for Breaking the Rules

Dubai enforces vaping laws strictly, and fines for breaking them can be steep. Vaping in prohibited areas can result in a fine of up to 2,000 dirhams, and repeated offences can lead to further penalties. If your vape device is deemed unsafe or unapproved, customs officers or police may confiscate it.

Using an e-cigarette in a public place where it is banned can also lead to warnings or being asked to leave the area. Tourists are expected to follow local laws just as residents do, and ignorance of the rules is not considered an excuse.

Travelling with a Vape to Dubai

If you are travelling to Dubai with your vape, plan ahead to ensure you comply with UAE law and airline regulations. Always pack your vape device and spare batteries in your hand luggage, never in checked bags. E-liquids must comply with the 100ml limit and be stored securely to prevent leaks.

When you arrive, declare your vape if asked by customs officers. It is rare for personal vape devices to be confiscated, but officials may inspect them to ensure they are for individual use and meet safety standards. Bringing large amounts of vape products may raise suspicion of commercial importation.

You cannot use your vape in the airport terminal, so wait until you are outside or in a designated smoking lounge before vaping.

Vaping Compared to Smoking in Dubai

In Dubai, vaping is treated similarly to smoking under public health laws. Both activities are banned in most indoor and public spaces, and both are subject to fines if performed in restricted areas. However, vaping is becoming more socially acceptable among adults, particularly in designated outdoor areas and private settings.

Health authorities in the UAE view vaping as a potential tool for harm reduction but remain cautious about its long-term safety. Public health campaigns continue to discourage all forms of nicotine use among young people, whether through cigarettes or e-cigarettes.

The Future of Vaping in Dubai

Dubai continues to update its laws to balance harm reduction with public safety. The government supports adult use of regulated vaping products as an alternative to smoking, but it is also committed to preventing youth access and maintaining clean public spaces.

In the future, the UAE may further tighten advertising restrictions and product safety standards. As awareness grows, more public venues may introduce dedicated vaping areas, similar to smoking zones.

Final Thoughts

Yes, you can vape in Dubai, but it must be done with care and respect for the law. Vaping is legal for adults and widely available in licensed stores, but there are strict rules about where you can use your device. You cannot vape in public indoor areas, on transport, or in non-designated zones, and fines for violations can be high.

When visiting Dubai, always vape discreetly, follow local customs, and use your device only in permitted outdoor spaces. Carry your vape in your hand luggage, respect cultural norms, and dispose of waste responsibly. By following these simple guidelines, you can enjoy your trip to Dubai without any issues and stay fully compliant with local laws.