Dubai Indoor Smoking Rules – Quick Guide for 2025

Thinking about lighting a cigarette inside a Dubai café or hotel? Hold up. The city has strict rules about indoor smoking, and breaking them can cost you a hefty fine. This guide breaks down where you can and can’t smoke, what the penalties are, and how e‑cigarettes are treated.

Where Indoor Smoking Is Still Allowed

Most indoor public places ban smoking outright. That means restaurants, malls, airports, and government buildings are smoke‑free zones. However, there are a few exceptions:

• Designated smoking rooms – Hotels, clubs, and some high‑end restaurants offer enclosed rooms with proper ventilation. You must stay inside the room; stepping out means you’re back under the ban.
• Private residences – Your own apartment or villa is fine, as long as you’re not causing a nuisance to neighbours.
• Outdoor covered areas – Some hotels have covered terraces that are technically outdoors. These are usually safe spots, but always check for a sign.

If you see a “No Smoking” sign, it applies to both cigarettes and e‑cigarettes. The sign is your best friend – ignore it and you’ll likely get fined.

Fines and Penalties You Can’t Ignore

The Dubai government takes indoor smoking seriously. The fine for smoking where it’s prohibited starts at AED 2,000 (about $540) and can rise to AED 5,000 for repeat offenses. The same fines apply to vaping in non‑smoking areas.

Enforcement is everywhere: security guards, mall staff, and even plain‑clothes police officers can issue tickets on the spot. If you’re caught, you’ll get a paper ticket and a bill you’ll need to pay within 30 days.

Business owners aren’t off the hook either. If a venue allows smoking without a proper room, the owners can face fines up to AED 20,000 and may be forced to close the smoking area.

So, what should you do?

• Look for clearly marked smoking rooms before you spark up.
• Keep your vape device in your bag when you’re in non‑smoking zones.
• Ask staff if you’re unsure – it’s better to ask than to risk a fine.

Remember, the rules are there to keep the air clean for everyone, and they’re enforced strictly. Follow them and you’ll enjoy your stay without any nasty surprises.

Got more questions about Dubai’s smoking laws? Check out our other articles on vaping, cigarette allowances at the airport, and what you can bring in your luggage. Stay informed, stay safe, and enjoy your time in Dubai.