The UAE takes public health seriously — and that includes strict control over where people can smoke. From traditional cigarettes to vapes and shisha, every form of smoking is governed by clear regulations. Understanding what’s allowed and what’s not under UAE smoking laws can help residents and visitors stay compliant and avoid heavy fines.
Smoking in public spaces
Smoking is not permitted in enclosed public areas. That means malls, cinemas, cafes, offices, hospitals, and public transport are smoke-free zones. Even taxis and metro stations fall under this restriction. Only licensed smoking rooms with proper ventilation are exempt, and these are limited to certain public venues such as airports and some shopping malls.
Smoking is also banned in schools, government buildings, and healthcare facilities. In parks, beaches, and recreational spots, you’ll find designated areas where smoking is allowed, but outside those zones, it’s prohibited.
Smoking near children
The UAE enforces strong protection for children. It is illegal to smoke in a car if a child under 12 is present. Violations can result in fines starting from AED 5,000. Under Federal Law No. 3 of 2016 (Wadeema’s Law), selling tobacco to anyone under 18 is banned. Sellers must verify age before completing any sale, or they risk legal penalties and fines that can reach up to AED 1 million in severe cases.
Shisha and proximity rules
Shisha cafés are allowed to operate only with a licence and must be at least 150 metres away from residential buildings, schools, and mosques. Dubai Municipality bans shisha smoking in public parks, beaches, and open recreational areas. Pregnant women are not allowed to enter shisha cafés, even if they do not intend to smoke. Sharjah, on the other hand, has a complete ban on shisha and smoking in public areas since 2008.
Vaping regulations
Electronic cigarettes and vape devices are treated the same as tobacco under UAE smoking laws. Vaping indoors or in enclosed spaces is not allowed unless in a licensed smoking area. The same ventilation and isolation standards apply. These rules aim to prevent secondhand exposure and ensure safe public environments.
Where smoking is allowed
Smokers can use designated outdoor areas where no prohibition signs are displayed. Some beaches and open-air spaces allow cigarette smoking, though shisha remains restricted. Licensed smoking rooms are available in select places like airports or certain hotels, provided they meet safety standards.
Licensed shisha cafés may offer indoor or outdoor options if they follow location, ventilation, and customer restrictions.
Workplace rules and public health focus
Many companies have adopted tobacco-free workplace policies. This includes bans across entire premises — both indoors and outdoors. Employees caught smoking in restricted areas may face disciplinary action. The Ministry of Health and Prevention continues to promote awareness about tobacco risks and supports tobacco-free initiatives across the UAE.
Summary
The UAE’s tobacco control policies are strict but clear. Smoking in public spaces is tightly regulated to protect children, non-smokers, and the environment. Whether you’re lighting a cigarette, using a vape, or enjoying shisha, make sure you understand the laws to avoid fines and support a cleaner, healthier UAE.
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