Posted by Whoever travels to the United Arab Emirates should definitely inform themselves about the smoking laws in Dubai. Although Dubai is considered liberal compared to other Gulf states, there are clear rules about where smoking is allowed – and where it is not. Fixed regulations also apply to e-cigarettes, shishas and the import of tobacco products. Here you will find everything you need to know in 2025 about smoking in Dubai: permitted areas, bans, prices, fines and practical tips for tourists.
>>> Book a desert tour in Dubai
Is smoking allowed in Dubai?
Yes – smoking is generally allowed, but only in specific areas. In recent years, Dubai’s municipality has established numerous non-smoking zones. Those who fail to comply must expect significant fines.
Smoking is allowed:
- outdoors (except in prohibited areas such as beaches or parks)
- in designated smoking areas in hotels, bars and clubs
- in shisha lounges or designated smoking cafés
Smoking is prohibited:
- in shopping malls, museums, public authorities and cinemas
- in taxis, buses, the metro and at metro stations
- in restaurants (except terraces with smoking areas)
- in parks, on beaches and near schools or mosques
Violations are punished with fines between 200 and 500 AED (around €50–130). Controls are particularly strict when children are nearby – higher penalties may apply.
Get tickets for the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo ➜
Smoking in hotels, restaurants & bars
Most hotels in Dubai offer designated smoking rooms or outdoor areas where smoking is allowed. In restaurants, smoking is generally prohibited unless it is a terrace or a separate smoking area.
In bars, beach clubs or rooftop terraces, smoking is usually permitted as long as the area is open-air and smoke does not enter enclosed spaces. Still, it’s always a good idea to ask before lighting a cigarette – violations are noticed negatively.
Shisha (waterpipe) is very popular in Dubai and available in many places – especially along Jumeirah Beach Road, La Mer Beach or in Deira. Prices for a shisha range between 50 and 100 AED (€12–25).
Smoking in public transport
Smoking is strictly prohibited on all public transportation:
- ❌ Metro – complete smoking ban
- ❌ Buses – absolute smoking ban
- ❌ Taxis – no smoking, not even with the window open
- ❌ Ferries and water taxis – only in designated outdoor areas (rarely permitted)
A cigarette butt or vape in a taxi can already lead to a 500 AED fine (~€125). Drivers are required to report violations.
>>> Book a desert tour in Dubai
E-cigarettes & vapes in Dubai
Since 2019, e-cigarettes have been legal in the UAE. However, they are subject to the same rules as tobacco products. This means: no vaping in public buildings, transport or enclosed areas.
Important notes for vapers:
- E-cigarettes and liquids are available in Dubai, mostly in specialty shops or supermarkets.
- Nicotine liquids may be sold if they comply with UAE regulations.
- E-cigarettes are allowed in hand luggage, but liquids over 100 ml are prohibited.
- Vaping on the street or in parks is discouraged – better use designated smoking areas.
>>> Click here to book a great day tour from Dubai to Abu Dhabi
Cigarette prices in Dubai 2025
Cigarettes have become significantly more expensive in Dubai due to the 100% health tax introduced in 2020. Still, prices remain moderate compared to Western Europe.
Examples (2025):
- Marlboro Gold (20 pcs): approx. 25 AED (~€6.50)
- Winston Blue: approx. 23 AED (~€6)
- Davidoff Classic: approx. 27 AED (~€7)
- Shisha tobacco (250 g): 45–60 AED (~€12–15)
- E-liquid (30 ml): 35–45 AED (~€9–12)
At the Dubai Duty-Free Shop, cigarettes are usually 25–30% cheaper. A carton of Marlboro costs around €50 instead of €70 in the city.
Cigarette & e-cigarette import
Tourists may bring up to 400 cigarettes (two cartons) into Dubai duty-free. Larger quantities may lead to fines or confiscation by customs. The allowance for cigars is 50 pieces.
- Up to 400 cigarettes allowed
- Up to 50 cigars allowed
- Up to 500 g tobacco allowed
- E-cigarettes: permitted for personal use
Tip: Liquids should be transported in checked baggage if you carry more than 100 ml. Otherwise, they will be confiscated at security.
Smoking on the beach & in parks
Many beaches in Dubai are now officially non-smoking zones. Smoking is prohibited especially at family beaches (e.g., JBR Beach, Kite Beach, La Mer Beach). Some places have small, designated smoking areas.
Smoking is also prohibited in public parks such as Zabeel Park or Creek Park. Throwing cigarette butts on the ground can result in fines up to 500 AED (~€125).
Beaches with official smoking ban:
- Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR)
- Kite Beach
- La Mer Beach
- Al Mamzar Beach Park
In the evenings, controls are often less strict, but it is still advisable to be respectful – especially towards families and locals.
⚖️ Fines & penalties in Dubai
Authorities in Dubai strictly enforce smoking laws, including for tourists. Cigarettes, vapes and shishas are treated the same.
| Violation | Fine (AED) | Approx. EUR |
|---|---|---|
| Smoking in prohibited areas (mall, metro, taxi) | 500 AED | ≈ €125 |
| Vaping in public facilities | 300 AED | ≈ €75 |
| Discarding cigarette butts | 500 AED | ≈ €125 |
| Smoking near children or schools | 500 AED | ≈ €125 |
It’s worth paying attention to the signs and floor markings. In many tourist areas, smoking zones are clearly marked.
Behaviour tips for smokers in Dubai
- Only smoke in designated zones or outdoors – never indoors.
- If unsure, ask the staff whether smoking is allowed.
- Be especially discreet during Ramadan – do not smoke publicly during daytime.
- Always dispose of cigarette butts in bins or portable ashtrays.
- Only vape in places where smoking is also allowed.
Conclusion: Smoking is allowed – but only with respect
In Dubai, smoking is still permitted in 2025, but under clear rules. Those who follow them will have no issues – violators risk high fines. E-cigarettes and shishas are officially allowed, but should always be used respectfully.
The best places to smoke are terraces, hotel balconies or designated areas. In all other cases, it’s better to ask once more than to pay a fine.
Experience Dubai: tours, excursions & tickets at GetYourGuide