Guide: Smoking Etiquette in Dubai – Smokers Must Know

Before purchasing tickets to any nation, we recommend learning about its regulations, rules, and cultural dos and don’ts, especially if you plan to travel to Dubai. Various legal and cultural rules in the county are both evident and not so obvious. Particularly when it comes to smoking laws. If you smoke, I strongly advise you to become acquainted with their smoking restrictions so that you are not inconvenienced. 

So, before you fly to Dubai, here is our smoking guide.

What is the Legal Age in Dubai to Smoke Cigarettes?

In Dubai, there is no legal age limit for smoking cigarettes. However, according to Federal Law No.15 of 2009 on Tobacco Control, you are not permitted to purchase tobacco goods from anyone because the legal age for purchasing tobacco products is 18 years old. 

How Much Does a Pack of Cigarettes Cost? 

The Dubai Health Authority took stricter measures to reduce smoking in the emirate with a new regulation that went into force in 2017. The implementation of a 100 percent excise tax on all tobacco sales in Dubai and the UAE, effectively doubling the price of a pack of cigarettes in comparison to other GCC countries. 

In Dubai, one package of Marlboro cigarettes costs 21 Dirham. 

Is it legal to vape or use e-cigarettes in Dubai? 

Normal cigarettes, e-cigarettes, vape, heating tobacco, and other tobacco products are all legal in Dubai. Only if you use it in a location where smoking is prohibited, such as an outdoor smoking cabin. Smokers caught using an e-cigarette in a banned place face a fine of up to Dh 2.000. 

Are there any places where smoking cigarettes is prohibited?

Yes, you are not permitted to smoke your cigarettes in certain regions. Government buildings, malls, schools, offices, parks, and shops are among these locations. If you don’t, you’ll be fined AED 500, or around $136, according to the rules. 

Where else is it prohibited from smoking?

In addition to these locations, there are a few others where smoking is prohibited (based on places and times.) 

On the Roads; Smoking is permitted in Dubai and the other Emirates, however it is not recommended during Ramadan. Ramadan is the Muslim holy month during which individuals fast from sunrise to sunset. 

You may smoke, drink, and eat anytime you want as a non-Muslim, but never in front of others. This is how you show your appreciation for their culture. 

Malls (shopping centers) 

In the mall, you are not permitted to smoke cigarettes. If you can’t resist the urge to smoke, simply go to the parking lot and look for an outdoor smoking cabin where a large number of smokers congregate. 

The smoking area should be at least 25 feet away from the entrances, exits, and ventilation, according to Dubai Municipality. For safety reasons, a great outside smoking cabin should have a fire extinguisher and fireproof ashtrays. 

Governmental Buildings 

Cigarettes are not permitted in government buildings, as previously mentioned. Fortunately, an outdoor smoking cabin is located near the entrance doors, parking spots, and other sites. 

Rental car

In a word, your car is your law. As a result, you are free to smoke cigarettes without bothering others. However, bringing a child under the age of 12 in your automobile may be considered prohibited, according to legislation. The rule was enacted to protect children’s health from secondhand smoking and smoke exposure.

Airports

Cigarettes are not permitted to be smoked in airports. However, there are smoking areas throughout the airport, including near the main gate. Fortunately, 16 of our smoking cabins have been built around Abu Dhabi International Airport. 

Before going to Dubai, here are some suggestions for smokers. We hope that our suggestions and guidance will assist you in achieving your goals.