Is vaping illegal in UAE? What visitors and residents need to know to avoid fines

Time of India

2 days ago

E-cigarettes are legal in Dubai, but using them in the wrong place can lead to heavy fines/ Representative Image
TL;DR
E-cigarettes (vapes) are legal to own and use in Dubai, but only in certain places.
You can't use them indoors or in most public spaces.
Fines range from AED 500 to AED 2,000 for breaking the rules.
If you're visiting Dubai, or living there, you've probably noticed how clean and well-organized public spaces are. The city takes rules seriously. That includes how it handles smoking and vaping.
While you might see someone using an e-cigarette (also called a vape), outside a mall or on a sidewalk, that doesn't mean it's allowed. Dubai has clear rules on where you can vape, what kind of products are legal, and who can use them. These rules are part of a broader effort to protect public health and respect social norms.
So if you're traveling with a vape or thinking about using one in public, it's important to understand how the laws work.
The last thing you want is to face a fine, or worse, because you didn't know the local rules.
Let's break it down clearly.
The Law Around E-Cigarettes in Dubai
The UAE officially legalized the sale and use of e-cigarettes in 2019. That made it legal for licensed shops to sell devices, refills, and accessories, as long as they meet local standards. But legalization didn't make them welcome everywhere.
Dubai restricts where e-cigarettes can be used. Just like with traditional cigarettes, you can't use them in enclosed or public indoor spaces. That includes:
Restaurants
Malls
Offices
Airports (outside of smoking lounges)
Government buildings
Beaches and parks
If you're in a shared public space, chances are it's a no-go zone for e-cigarette use unless there's a designated smoking area.
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What About Tourists Carrying E-Cigarettes?
Tourists can bring e-cigarettes into Dubai for personal use. That includes disposable devices, liquids, and chargers. But there are a few things to keep in mind:
You must be over 18 to carry or buy them.
Items should be stored safely, preferably in checked baggage.
E-liquid must follow airline rules: no more than 100 ml per container, sealed in a clear plastic bag.
Dubai customs may inspect your bags. If something looks suspicious or exceeds limits, it could be confiscated. Bringing small, clearly personal-use quantities is usually fine.
Penalties If You Break the Rules
Fines for using e-cigarettes in the wrong places in Dubai can be quite steep.
If you're caught, you may have to pay anywhere from AED 500 (about $135) up to AED 2,000 (around $545). Repeat offenses can lead to even higher fines or possible legal action. There's usually no warning, as enforcement is strict, especially in places like shopping malls, airports, and metro stations where surveillance is common.
What You Can and Can't Do
If you're using e-cigarettes (vapes) in Dubai, here are a few key things to keep in mind to avoid issues:
Know the law. Regulations can change, so check the latest rules before using or carrying e-cigarettes around the city.
Stick to smoking zones. Only use e-cigarettes in areas where smoking is clearly allowed. These are often marked and found in some outdoor public spaces.
Never use them indoors. That includes malls, restaurants, offices, taxis, and enclosed public places. Even if no one stops you, it's still illegal.
Respect cultural norms. Dubai is diverse, and public behavior matters. Be mindful of how using e-cigarettes might come across to others, especially in family spaces.
Ask if you're not sure. When in a hotel, café, or private space, ask staff if e-cigarette use is allowed before using your device.
Dispose of waste properly. Don't leave used cartridges, packaging, or devices behind. Use bins—littering can lead to fines.
Follow the house rules. Private businesses may have their own policies. Even if the city allows it, a venue might not.
Keep yourself updated. Laws can shift. Stay informed, especially if you're a frequent traveler or plan to stay in the UAE long term.
Health Concerns
The rules around e-cigarettes in Dubai are strict mainly because of health concerns. Authorities across the UAE worry about the long-term risks of nicotine products, including those found in e-cigarette liquids. Issues like high levels of nicotine salts, chemical additives in flavored liquids, and the risk of minors misusing these products all play a part. On top of that, there's a strong public effort to discourage smoking and nicotine use overall.
That's why you'll often see awareness campaigns aimed at quitting completely, not just switching from traditional cigarettes to e-cigarettes.