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Dubai is a city known for its luxury, glamour, and opulence. From its towering skyscrapers to its pristine beaches, Dubai is a destination that attracts visitors from around the world. However, there is one aspect of Dubai that is often overlooked – its smoking culture.

Smoking has long been a popular activity in Dubai, with many locals and tourists alike indulging in a puff or two of shisha, also known as hookah, at one of the city’s many cafes and restaurants. Shisha smoking has a long history in the Middle East and is an integral part of the region’s social culture.

In recent years, however, smoking in Dubai has come under increasing scrutiny, with the government implementing strict regulations on where and when people can smoke. This has led to a decline in the number of smoking venues in the city, as well as a push towards more smoke-free environments.

Despite these challenges, smoking in Dubai remains a popular pastime for many residents and visitors. In this article, we will explore the history of smoking in Dubai, the current regulations surrounding smoking, and the best places to enjoy a smoke in the city.

History of Smoking in Dubai

Smoking has a long history in the Middle East, with the practice of smoking tobacco dating back thousands of years. In Dubai, smoking has been a popular activity for both men and women for centuries, with many people enjoying a smoke after a meal or during social gatherings.

One of the most popular forms of smoking in Dubai is shisha, a water pipe that is used to smoke flavored tobacco. Shisha smoking has been a tradition in the Middle East for hundreds of years and is considered a social activity that brings people together.

In addition to shisha, cigarettes and cigars are also popular in Dubai, with many people enjoying a smoke while relaxing at home or out with friends. The popularity of smoking in Dubai has led to the growth of a thriving tobacco industry in the city, with a wide variety of tobacco products available for purchase.

Current Regulations on Smoking in Dubai

In recent years, the government of Dubai has implemented strict regulations on smoking in an effort to reduce the harmful effects of smoking on public health. These regulations include restrictions on where and when people can smoke, as well as penalties for those who violate the rules.

One of the most significant changes in Dubai’s smoking regulations was the implementation of smoke-free zones in public places, including restaurants, cafes, and offices. Smoking is now prohibited in these areas, with designated smoking zones set up to accommodate those who wish to smoke.

In addition to smoke-free zones, the government of Dubai has also banned smoking in cars when children are present, as well as in public transportation and other enclosed spaces. These regulations are designed to protect non-smokers from the harmful effects of secondhand smoke.

Penalties for violating Dubai’s smoking regulations can be severe, with fines of up to AED 1,000 for smoking in prohibited areas. Repeat offenders may face even harsher penalties, including the possibility of being deported from the city.

Despite these regulations, smoking remains a popular activity in Dubai, with many people continuing to smoke in designated areas or in the privacy of their own homes. As a result, there are still plenty of places in the city where smokers can indulge in their habit.

Best Places to Smoke in Dubai

While smoking venues in Dubai may be limited due to the city’s strict regulations, there are still plenty of places where smokers can enjoy a puff or two in a relaxed and comfortable environment. Here are some of the best places to smoke in Dubai:

1. Shisha Cafes – Shisha cafes are a popular destination for shisha lovers in Dubai, with many cafes offering a wide variety of flavored tobacco and a relaxing atmosphere in which to enjoy a smoke. Some of the best shisha cafes in the city include Reem Al Bawadi, Leila, and Cafe Habana.

2. Beach Clubs – Dubai’s beach clubs are a great place to relax and unwind with a smoke, with many clubs offering shisha and other tobacco products for guests to enjoy. Some of the top beach clubs in Dubai include Nikki Beach, Zero Gravity, and Cove Beach.

3. Rooftop Bars – Dubai is known for its stunning skyline, and rooftop bars are the perfect place to enjoy a smoke while taking in the city’s impressive views. Some of the best rooftop bars in Dubai include Atelier M, Iris Dubai, and Skyview Bar at the Burj Al Arab.

4. Private Clubs – For those looking for a more exclusive smoking experience, private clubs in Dubai offer a luxurious setting in which to enjoy a smoke. Some of the top private clubs in the city include Capital Club Dubai, The Hideout Dubai, and White Dubai.

5. Outdoor Restaurants – Many outdoor restaurants in Dubai have designated smoking areas where diners can enjoy a smoke while dining al fresco. Some of the best outdoor restaurants in the city include The Scene by Simon Rimmer, QD’s at Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, and La Serre Bistro & Boulangerie.

Overall, smoking in Dubai continues to be a popular activity for many residents and visitors, despite the city’s strict regulations on smoking. With a wide variety of smoking venues available, there are plenty of places in Dubai where smokers can indulge in their habit in a comfortable and enjoyable setting.

In conclusion, smoking in Dubai is a longstanding tradition that remains popular among residents and visitors to the city. While the government has implemented strict regulations on smoking in an effort to protect public health, there are still plenty of places in Dubai where smokers can enjoy a puff or two in a relaxed and welcoming environment. Whether you prefer shisha, cigarettes, or cigars, there is no shortage of smoking venues in Dubai where you can indulge in your habit and unwind in style.