Where to Find the Best Shisha in Dubai

Smoke In Dubai: A Guide to Smoking in the City of Gold

Dubai, known as the City of Gold, is a bustling metropolis that attracts visitors from all over the world. With its stunning skyline, luxurious shopping malls, and vibrant nightlife, Dubai has become a popular destination for tourists looking to experience the best that the Middle East has to offer. However, for smokers, there are a few things to keep in mind when lighting up in the city.

Smoking Laws in Dubai

Dubai is known for its strict laws, and smoking is no exception. In 2009, the UAE government introduced a ban on smoking in public places, including restaurants, cafes, and shopping malls. This means that smokers will have to be mindful of where they light up while in Dubai.

There are designated smoking areas in some public places, such as airports and hotels, where smokers can indulge in their habit. However, it is important to always ask before lighting up, as the rules may vary from place to place.

In addition to the ban on smoking in public places, Dubai also has strict regulations on the sale and distribution of tobacco products. It is illegal to sell tobacco to anyone under the age of 18, and smoking in cars with children under the age of 12 present is also prohibited.

Despite these laws, smoking is still a popular pastime in Dubai, with many residents and visitors indulging in a cigarette or shisha pipe while enjoying the city’s many attractions. So, if you are a smoker planning a trip to Dubai, here are some tips to help you navigate the smoking scene in the City of Gold.

Where to Smoke in Dubai

While smoking is banned in most public places in Dubai, there are still plenty of places where smokers can indulge in their habit. One of the most popular places for smokers is the many shisha cafes that can be found throughout the city. Shisha, also known as hookah, is a traditional Middle Eastern tobacco pipe that is popular with both locals and tourists. Many cafes in Dubai offer a wide variety of shisha flavors, as well as food and drinks to enjoy while smoking.

Some hotels in Dubai also have designated smoking areas, where guests can indulge in a cigarette or cigar without running afoul of the law. However, it is always best to check with the hotel before lighting up, as some may have strict no-smoking policies.

For those who prefer to smoke outdoors, Dubai has several beaches where smoking is allowed. Jumeirah Beach and Kite Beach are popular spots for smokers looking to enjoy a cigarette or shisha pipe while taking in the stunning views of the Arabian Gulf.

Smoking Etiquette in Dubai

While smoking is still common in Dubai, it is important to be mindful of local customs and etiquette when indulging in a cigarette or shisha pipe. Here are a few tips to help you navigate the smoking scene in the City of Gold:

– Always ask before lighting up: While smoking is allowed in some public places in Dubai, it is always best to ask before lighting up. Some establishments may have strict no-smoking policies, so be sure to check before indulging in your habit.

– Respect non-smokers: Not everyone enjoys being around smoke, so be mindful of the people around you when smoking in a public place. If someone asks you to put out your cigarette or move to a designated smoking area, be respectful and comply with their request.

– Dispose of your butts properly: Littering is a serious offense in Dubai, so be sure to dispose of your cigarette butts in a proper manner. Many public places have designated smoking areas with ashtrays where you can safely dispose of your ashes and butts.

– Be mindful of cultural sensitivities: Smoking is a common practice in many Middle Eastern countries, but it is still important to be mindful of local customs and sensitivities. Avoid smoking in religious buildings or near mosques, and be respectful of any signs or warnings indicating that smoking is prohibited.

– Follow the law: While smoking is still allowed in some public places in Dubai, it is important to follow the law and abide by the regulations set forth by the UAE government. Failure to do so can result in hefty fines or even imprisonment, so be sure to familiarize yourself with the smoking laws in Dubai before lighting up.

The Future of Smoking in Dubai

As tobacco use continues to decline worldwide, Dubai is taking steps to curb smoking and promote a healthier lifestyle among its residents and visitors. In recent years, the UAE government has implemented several initiatives to reduce smoking rates, including increasing tobacco taxes, banning smoking in public places, and providing support for those looking to quit.

One of the most successful anti-smoking campaigns in Dubai is the Quit Together program, which offers free counseling and support services to help smokers kick the habit for good. The program has helped thousands of residents and visitors quit smoking, leading to a decrease in smoking rates in the city.

In addition to these initiatives, Dubai has also seen a rise in the popularity of e-cigarettes and vaping among smokers looking for a less harmful alternative to traditional tobacco products. While e-cigarettes are not currently regulated in Dubai, the UAE government is considering implementing tighter restrictions to curb their use among young people.

Overall, smoking in Dubai is still a popular pastime, with many residents and visitors indulging in a cigarette or shisha pipe while enjoying the city’s many attractions. However, with the government’s initiatives to reduce smoking rates and promote a healthier lifestyle, the future of smoking in Dubai may be on the decline.

So, if you are a smoker planning a trip to Dubai, be sure to familiarize yourself with the smoking laws and etiquette in the City of Gold. By respecting local customs and regulations, you can enjoy your smoking experience in Dubai while staying on the right side of the law.