Can You Vape in Dubai? 2025 Laws, Tips & What to Expect

Sneaking a vape on a sandy Dubai beach might seem harmless. Until you catch a few puzzled stares—or worse, spot a uniformed officer. Most travelers think: if it’s legal at home, surely it’s fine in the UAE. Here’s the shocker: Dubai, famous for sky-high towers and futuristic shopping, has a love-hate thing with vaping. Rules shift quickly. Travelers have gotten mixed up in the strict system, with some learning the hard way.

Dubai’s Vaping Laws: What You Need to Know in 2025

The UAE banned e-cigarettes and vaping devices for a decade. This changed in 2019, when the government flipped the script, making it legal to sell regulated vape products. But "legal" here comes with strings attached. Dubai isn’t casual about public decency or strictness—and definitely not about rules. The law says you can use vape devices, but only with products that are approved by the Emirates Authority for Standardization and Metrology (ESMA). Skip the market knockoffs. Only certified devices and e-juices bought in reputable shops are allowed.

But even if you’re vaping a government-approved pen, puffing wherever you want is risky. The UAE treats vapes almost exactly like traditional cigarettes. That means zero tolerance in shopping malls, most restaurants, government buildings, schools, offices, parks, hospitals, and on public transport. There are signs everywhere, and people don’t hesitate to call out what they see as public misbehavior. In some places—think parks or even taxi backseats—lighting up can get you an immediate fine.

Here’s how the fines add up, according to public records in 2024: first offense? Expect a 2,000 AED fine (that’s about $840 AUD). It’s usually a spot fine, and the police are all business. The rules are set under Federal Law No. 15 of 2009 on Tobacco Control, which, since 2019, now includes vapes.

What about bringing vapes into Dubai? You’re allowed, but there’s a catch. If you arrive at Dubai International carrying more than what looks personal, customs officers might ask a lot of questions. Forty milliliters of e-liquid and two devices—anything above this feels suspicious. Confiscation is common. Trying to sneak in illegal flavors, like those with CBD or other banned substances, can mean trouble: fines, deportation, or even criminal charges if authorities think you’re importing for resale.

Here’s a quirky thing: the city’s ultra-high-end bars and nightclubs sometimes have vape-friendly areas. They’re rare, though. Staff will point them out if asked. For most visitors, expect to step outside, and even there, check your surroundings. Dubai Marina has tight residential rules. The old town’s souks? Nowhere to hide.

Vaping Culture & Attitudes: What Locals and Expats Think

Even with the law in place, Dubai’s relationship with vaping is… complicated. Locals, expats, and tourists all have their own take. Among young Emiratis and the city’s huge expat crowd, vapes are common—far more subtle than cigarettes, easy to hide, and kind of techy-cool. But this doesn’t mean it’s openly accepted. The UAE’s culture leans conservative. Even if you don’t see a law enforcement officer, any member of the public can (and sometimes will) report you. This is even more likely during Ramadan or public events, when anything considered disrespectful is extra risky. Public decency is a big deal.

If you’re living in a shared apartment or hotel, check the rules on indoor vaping. Many hotels ban vaping in rooms and will charge hefty "deep cleaning" fees. Airbnb hosts, especially in luxury towers, usually add strict clauses to listings—break them, and expect a penalty or a ban. As for private homes? What you do with your own space is your business, but scented vapor drifting from balconies can trigger neighbor complaints. These are never ignored by building management.

One thing you’ll notice: vape shops are everywhere, especially in areas popular with tourists and young professionals. They might have flashy names, or tiny doors next to barbers or phone repair places. Prices run high: a bottle of basic mint or tobacco-flavored vape juice often costs 65-80 AED (about $25-31 AUD). If you’re used to wide flavor choices, Dubai will feel restricted. Sweet fruit, dessert, and tropical flavors are common, but watch for anything resembling cannabis, CBD, or other oil-based products—those are prohibited. Just being caught with CBD, even in a vape, crosses a line into criminal law. Don’t test your luck.

It’s not unusual to see people vaping discreetly in outdoor hotel bars, certain rooftops in Dubai Marina, or at private pool parties. But the attitude is always "out of sight, out of mind." The stereotype about Dubai being full of luxury and pranks doesn’t extend to vapes—people aren’t as chill as in, say, London or Los Angeles. Most will expect you to at least ask before you puff. Even among friends, it’s courteous to check.

There’s another twist: every few months, rumors swirl about new vaping crackdowns. Sometimes police run surprise checks at Dubai Marina, Mirdif, or JBR. If you’re caught in a general sweep (especially during school holidays or high travel seasons), being a tourist won’t get you out of a fine. Local press occasionally shares dramatic stories about raids on rogue vape sellers in the Deira district. So if you see ultra-cheap market stalls selling off-brand juices, steer clear. The risk just isn’t worth a fast save on money. Besides, counterfeits are often poor quality—think leaky batteries, harsh flavors, and potential health risks. Be smart and stick with proper stores.

Street Smarts: Practical Tips for Vaping in Dubai

Okay, so you want to vape, but not end up in a sticky situation. Here’s the honest breakdown:

• Never vape in airports. Not in the terminal, not in bathrooms, and not in the car parks. Dubai Airport’s CCTV sees everything. You’ll land a massive fine on arrival or departure. There are dedicated smoking lounges—use them if you must.
• Keep your device and juices in checked luggage. Carry-on is allowed, but if you’re flying in or out, always remove batteries and store e-liquids in line with airline liquid rules (usually under 100ml, in a clear zip bag). Customs sometimes inspects bags—have your receipts handy, especially for new-looking gear.
• Always check signs before vaping, even outdoors. In areas like The Walk at JBR, Kite Beach, or La Mer, security patrols are everywhere. If it’s not obvious—ask a staffer. Don’t assume empty space means private space.
• Avoid vaping near families, children, or at busy bus stops. The rules say “public spaces” but local expectation goes beyond that. Many Emiratis view vaping as a form of smoking, with similar social stigma. Discretion wins you friends (or at least, less trouble).
• Know the penalties: a single mistake can cost weeks’ worth of holiday money. Don’t argue with authorities—fines are rarely negotiable. Always accept the ticket and sort out payment at the designated place (often at the police station or online portal listed on the slip).
• For long stays, keep up to date. The UAE government regularly tweaks the list of allowed products. The ministry website and ESMA’s social media channels post updates. Don’t assume last year’s device is still approved. Dubai’s vaping scene is fast-moving—what’s fine now could be banned next month.
• If you’re a diplomat, pilot, or frequent visitor, double-check with your consulate for any updates. Rules for government zones, industrial areas, and border regions can be far stricter.
• Never give or gift vape products to minors (under 18) or strangers—it’s a criminal offense, not just a fine.
• Buy spare parts and juices from official vape shops, not online forums or street sellers. Confiscated or defective vapes can mess up your whole trip.
• Remember: vaping while driving is allowed, but anything that “obstructs visibility” (read: massive clouds) could land you a separate traffic fine. Dubai traffic cops have ticketed drivers for being distracted by vapes.

The best move? Treat vaping just like alcohol here: legal for adults, but tightly regulated, only allowed in the right places, and with hefty fines for slip-ups. When in doubt, err on the safe side—ask, check, and stay low-key. And always keep your travel insurance up to date. That might not sound fun, but it means you’ll keep your chill—and your holiday—on track in this stunning, rules-heavy city.