Are vapes legal and regulated in the UAE now?

Navigating the world of vaping in the United Arab Emirates requires a clear understanding of the evolving regulations, which have undergone significant changes in recent years, balancing personal use with public health considerations.

The Legal Shift: From Ban to Regulation

For a long time, the sale of e-cigarettes and vaping products was prohibited in the UAE. However, a significant shift occurred in April 2019, when the UAE government legalized the sale and use of e-cigarettes, vaping devices, and associated products. This move was part of a broader strategy, with authorities like the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) aiming to regulate these products under strict conditions. The primary goal was to offer a less harmful alternative to traditional tobacco products while ensuring consumer safety and controlling their usage, especially among minors. This change brought the UAE in line with many other countries that regulate, rather than outright ban, vaping.

Regulatory Bodies and Product Standards

The regulation of vape products in the UAE is a multi-layered affair, overseen by several government agencies to ensure compliance and consumer safety. The main body responsible for setting and enforcing standards is the Ministry of Industry & Advanced Technology (MoIAT), which previously was the Emirates Authority for Standardization and Metrology (ESMA). All vape products sold in the UAE must comply with stringent standards set by MoIAT. These regulations cover various aspects:

• Product Quality: Products undergo rigorous testing to ensure they are free from harmful substances like heavy metals or formaldehyde. There have been recalls of brands failing these tests.
• Nicotine Concentration: There are specific limits on nicotine content. For instance, the maximum nicotine concentration in e-liquids is capped at 20 milligrams per milliliter.
• Tank and Refill Capacity: Maximum tank capacity for devices is typically no more than 10ml, and refill packages usually have a maximum capacity of 50ml.
• Labeling Requirements: All products must display health warnings in both Arabic and English, covering a significant portion of the packaging (often at least 50% of the main display area). These warnings typically state: “This product may pose a health hazard when inhaled, swallowed or gets in contact with the skin” and “Contains nicotine which causes severe addiction, increased heart rate and high blood pressure. Nicotine is harmful to the health of pregnant and nursing women, and people suffering from chronic pulmonary diseases such as asthma and pulmonary embolism.” An 18+ symbol and a clear statement prohibiting sale and consumption by individuals under 18 must also be present.
• Prohibited Ingredients: The law explicitly prohibits certain ingredients, such as vitamins or additives that might falsely suggest health benefits, and substances like Ethylene Glycol, Diethyl Glycol, Formaldehyde, Caffeine, Taurine, or Acetone, unless specified by regulations.
• Advertising Restrictions: Advertising and promotion of e-cigarettes and vaping products remain strictly prohibited in the UAE, similar to traditional tobacco products. This includes direct and indirect advertising across all media, including social media.

Where You Can and Cannot Vape: Public Usage Guidelines

While vaping is legal in the UAE, its use is strictly regulated in public spaces, mirroring the rules for traditional cigarettes. Understanding these restrictions is crucial to avoid fines, which can be up to AED 2,000 (approximately $545 USD) for violations.

• Prohibited Areas: Vaping is generally prohibited in all enclosed public spaces, including:
  • Shopping malls
  • Restaurants and cafes (unless specifically designated smoking areas exist)
  • Public buildings and government offices
  • Educational institutions (schools, universities)
  • Health facilities and hospitals
  • Places of worship
  • Public transport (buses, metro, taxis)
  • Enclosed office spaces and workplaces.
• Permitted Areas: Vaping is typically allowed in:
  • Designated smoking areas: Many hotels, open-air venues, and some airports have clearly marked designated smoking areas where vaping is permitted. Always look for clear signage.
  • Private residences: Vaping inside your own home is generally allowed, but being considerate of neighbors is advised.
  • Vape-friendly lounges or cafes: Some establishments are specifically designed to accommodate vapers, often having well-ventilated or outdoor sections.

It’s important to remember that “smoke-free zones” in the UAE generally apply to all inhaled substances, including vapes, not just traditional cigarettes. Cultural norms also play a role; discreet usage is always advised, especially in traditional areas like Bur Dubai or Al Fahidi. During Ramadan, using vapes in daylight hours, even in smoking zones, is widely considered disrespectful.

Age Restrictions and Purchasing Vaping Products

The legal age for purchasing and using vape products in the UAE is 18 years or older. Retailers are legally obligated to ask for identification, so always carry a valid ID when making a purchase. You can purchase vapes and e-liquids from:

• Licensed vape shops: These specialized stores, found in various malls (like Mall of the Emirates in Dubai) and commercial areas, offer ESMA-approved products.
• Approved online stores: Several online platforms are licensed to sell vaping products within the UAE.
• Duty-Free at Airports: Duty-free shops at UAE airports often sell a range of vape products, including e-liquids with varying nicotine concentrations, which can sometimes be higher than the mainland limit, though this primarily applies to international travel through these zones. Avoid purchasing from unregistered sellers in souks or unapproved online marketplaces, as their products may not comply with UAE standards and could be confiscated. Pharmacies also sell nicotine-free vaping liquids, but for nicotine variants, a prescription might be required in some cases.

Traveling with Vapes: Customs and Airline Rules

Bringing vaping devices into the UAE for personal use is generally permitted, but there are specific rules to follow, especially when it comes to quantities and airline policies.

• Customs: Tourists can bring personal vaping devices, but quantities are scrutinized. Carrying more than approximately three vape pens or 20ml of e-liquid may trigger customs inspections. Products that don’t comply with UAE standards, such as those with packaging appealing to minors, are subject to confiscation.
• Airport Use: While you can carry your vape to the airport, usage is restricted to designated smoking areas within the airport premises.
• Airline Policy:
  • Hand Luggage: Vaping devices containing batteries (including e-cigars, e-pipes, personal vaporizers) must be carried in hand luggage, never in checked baggage, to prevent accidental activation. They should be individually protected.
  • In-Flight Use: Vaping is strictly prohibited on board flights by all airlines operating to and from the UAE, including Emirates Airline. You cannot use or charge your vape device during the flight.
  • E-liquid Storage: Store e-liquids properly, following airline guidelines for liquids in carry-on bags.

The Current Landscape and Public Perception

The UAE continues to monitor and adapt its vaping regulations to maintain public safety and align with global health recommendations. While vaping is legal, the Ministry of Health and Prevention actively urges smokers to quit and cautions against promoting electronic smoking products as entirely safe alternatives due to ongoing research and health concerns. The long-term health effects are still being studied, and authorities emphasize that these products generate toxic substances and can lead to addiction. Therefore, even where permitted, discretion and respect for those around you are always encouraged.

Understanding and adhering to these rules is vital for both residents and visitors to the UAE, ensuring a hassle-free experience while respecting local laws and cultural sensitivities. This comprehensive overview has been thoughtfully compiled by the www.few.ae team, aiming to guide you through the intricacies of vaping regulations in the Emirates.