Residents of Dubai raised concerns about smoking in public places, particularly the growing number of people vaping inside malls. In response, Dubai Municipality has increased inspections in shopping centres across the city.
In response to public complaints, Dubai Municipality confirmed that it has already put several measures in place to stop this behaviour, as vaping indoors violates UAE laws that ban smoking and e-cigarettes in enclosed public spaces.
Dubai Municipality, represented by the Health and Safety Department, has taken a set of measures in coordination with shopping centre operators to address the smoking phenomenon,” the authority said in a statement on X.
Dubai Municipality responded to residents of Dubai by taking steps to stop vaping in malls. Officials put up signs, told security to warn violators, and directed shops and restaurants to enforce the smoking ban. The municipality also banned smoking near entrances and exits, requiring designated smoking areas to be at least seven metres away.
Dubai Municipality regularly inspects public places to ensure people follow smoking regulations, aiming to protect public health and maintain a smoke-free environment.
Despite these efforts, some residents still report seeing people vaping indoors. Sana Rahim, a Sharjah-based mother who often visits Dubai malls with her children, called the behaviour “disrespectful” and said it sends the wrong message to children. She emphasized that vaping inside malls feels inappropriate in a country known for its order and respect for public spaces.
Vaping or Smoking Laws in the UAE
Since April 2019, the UAE government has permitted the sale of vaping products under strict regulations, but it continues to ban their use indoors—including in malls, offices, and hospitals.
Dubai Municipality also bans shisha smoking in public places like parks and beaches, requiring special licences for shisha cafes. These cafes must not be near schools or mosques, and pregnant women are not allowed inside.
Resident Saeed Al Mazrouei recently saw a teenager vaping at a mall food court and said no one reacted, even with families around. He warned the public not to ignore sweet-smelling vapes, stressing that they are still harmful.
Doctors Advice
Dr Biniyam Tefera, a consultant pulmonologist based in Dubai, said second-hand vape aerosol can carry health risks, especially in non-ventilated areas like malls.
“People often assume that because vape smoke looks less dense or smells pleasant, it’s safe, but that’s not the case,” said Dr Tefera. “Second-hand vape exposure can contain nicotine, heavy metals, and other harmful chemicals. Over time, this can affect lung function, especially in children, elderly people, and those with respiratory conditions.”
Resident Saeed Al Mazrouei warned that even short exposure to vape smoke in enclosed public areas could harm people with asthma or lung conditions. He explained that vape emissions are not just water vapour, and misunderstanding that fact is dangerous.
He said that the long-term risks of second-hand vaping are still under research, but current evidence already supports stricter enforcement. Saeed emphasized that for residents of Dubai, creating vape-free zones in malls is not only about following rules but also about protecting public health.
Dubai Municipality, he added, should treat smoking in public places as a serious health concern, not just a policy regulation.
