In the United Arab Emirates, electronic cigarettes are clearly not welcome. Indeed, the municipality of Dubai reminded residents that it was forbidden to vape at the entrance of shopping centers.
PROHIBITION OF ELECTRONIC CIGARETTE IN PUBLIC PLACES
It is not really a surprise that the city of Dubai is cracking down on cigarettes or vaping in public places. indeed the ban on smoking in public places (such as shopping malls, hotels and souks) was implemented in 2009 and now includes electronic cigarettes.
As part of this, the Dubai Municipality reminded residents that smoking at the entrance to shopping malls is against UAE smoking laws, even if it is vaping.
In fact, the sale and import of e-cigarettes is currently not legal in the UAE and while the government has been lax in law enforcement this is starting to change.
Anyone caught using an electronic cigarette in or near the entrance to a Dubai mall will be liable to a fine of 2 Dhs (000 Euros). The mall security officers will also have the right to report repeat offenders to the police.
The Dubai Municipality has also said it will take action against any store that sells e-cigarettes, as they violate UAE federal law.
