Electronic cigarettes and related products in Abu Dhabi operate under strict regulations governed by the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention. Understanding local laws is essential for compliance.
Legal Status
The UAE federal law permits e-cigarette possession and usage for individuals aged 18+. Abu Dhabi explicitly legalized e-cigarettes in 2019 under Regulation No. 8, establishing formal safety standards.
Key Regulations
- Age restrictions: Sales prohibited to individuals under 18.
- Public usage ban: Illegal to vape in malls, restaurants, government buildings, and vehicles with minors.
- Device standards: Products must carry Emirates Authority for Standardization & Metrology certification.
- Liquid composition: Nicotine strength capped at 20mg/ml; diacetyl and acetyl propionyl banned.
Purchasing Guidelines
Licensed tobacco specialty shops and authorized online retailers remain the only legal sources. Purchases require age verification; online orders mandate Emirates ID checks. Avoid informal vendors due to counterfeit risks.
Travel Considerations
Travelers may bring e-liquids containing ≤20mg/ml nicotine. Devices must be carried in cabin baggage, and refillable tanks must be emptied before flights exceeding UAE airspace.
Violations incur fines up to AED 2,000 (≈$545 USD). Consult Emirates Standardization & Metrology Authority documents for evolving technical requirements.
