Vape Laws: What Expired and What’s New in May – Vape Law Update UAE
Vaping in the UAE has been a topic of increasing interest and regulation over the past few years. With the rapid rise of vaping and its growing popularity, the UAE government has implemented various laws to regulate the sale, usage, and advertising of vape products. As May 2025 rolls in, there have been significant updates and changes in the UAE’s vape laws. Whether you are a regular vaper, a business owner in the vape industry, or someone just curious about the latest regulations, this article will cover everything you need to know about what’s expired and what’s new in vape law updates for May 2025.
Vape Laws in the UAE – A Brief Overview
The United Arab Emirates has long had strict regulations when it comes to vaping. The UAE government initially introduced laws to ban the sale of e-cigarettes and vape products in 2019. However, in 2020, a shift in policy allowed the legal sale of vaping products under strict conditions. As vaping culture continues to evolve, so do the laws surrounding it.
In May 2025, new updates have come into effect, alongside the expiration of some previous regulations. It’s crucial for both consumers and businesses to stay up to date with these changes, as non-compliance could lead to heavy penalties.
What’s Expired in UAE Vape Laws?
Previous Advertising Ban on Vape Products
One of the major regulations that expired recently is the nationwide advertising ban on vaping products. Under the old law, manufacturers and sellers of vape products were prohibited from advertising their goods on TV, billboards, and social media platforms. However, as of May 2025, these advertising restrictions have been relaxed under specific conditions.
The updated rules allow companies to advertise their vape products, but only on platforms that cater specifically to adult audiences. This change aims to balance the need for regulation with the recognition that adults who choose to vape should have access to accurate information about products.
Old Sales Restrictions on Flavored E-Liquids
The UAE had previously enforced strict regulations on flavored e-liquids, which were banned for a time due to health concerns. In the past, only tobacco-flavored products were allowed to be sold in the country. But in May 2025, these restrictions have been lifted, and vape products with a wider range of flavors are now allowed for sale, subject to compliance with new health and safety standards.
Outdated Minimum Age Requirements for Purchasing Vapes
The old law set the minimum age for purchasing vape products at 18 years. This has now been amended to reflect more stringent age verification measures, but the previous system of self-regulated sales has expired, requiring sellers to adopt a more formal, government-approved system for checking IDs and ensuring that only those above the legal age can purchase these products.
What’s New in UAE Vape Laws in May 2025?
Stricter Packaging and Labeling Regulations
One of the most notable changes in the UAE’s vape laws is the introduction of more stringent packaging and labeling requirements. From May 2025, all vape products must be packaged in child-resistant containers and clearly labeled with warnings about the potential health risks associated with vaping. These changes are designed to improve consumer safety and ensure that vape products are not easily accessible to minors.
Enhanced Taxation on Vape Products
Along with new regulations come increased taxes. The UAE government has introduced a new tax structure for vape products, which includes a percentage tax on all e-liquids and vape devices sold in the country. This new tax is intended to align the pricing of vape products with other tobacco-related items and discourage excessive use. Retailers and businesses in the vape industry will need to adjust their pricing strategies to accommodate these taxes.
Expanded Public Use Restrictions
The UAE has imposed tighter restrictions on where vaping can be done publicly. In the past, vaping in most public spaces was allowed, but this has changed in May 2025. Vapers are now prohibited from using e-cigarettes in certain high-traffic areas, such as shopping malls, public parks, and government buildings. Public spaces where smoking is banned are now also subject to similar restrictions for vaping.
License Requirements for Vape Retailers
In the past, selling vape products was relatively unregulated, but May 2025 has introduced new licensing requirements for vape retailers. All businesses that wish to sell e-cigarettes or related products must now obtain a special retail license, which ensures compliance with safety standards, health regulations, and the new tax policies. Failure to obtain this license can result in fines and the closure of businesses.
Increased Focus on Health Education Campaigns
As part of a broader initiative to reduce smoking and promote public health, the UAE government has ramped up its efforts to educate the public about the potential risks of vaping. Health authorities will launch new campaigns aimed at informing people about the dangers of nicotine addiction and the health risks associated with using vape products. This is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to curb smoking rates and encourage healthier lifestyles.
How These Changes Affect Consumers and Vape Businesses
For Consumers:
- More Flavor Choices: The lifting of the flavor restrictions means consumers can now access a wider variety of vape products, which could lead to a more enjoyable experience for those who vape.
- Health Warnings: With the new packaging and labeling rules, consumers will now be better informed about the potential risks of vaping. This could lead to more cautious use and an overall increase in public awareness.
- Higher Prices: Due to the new taxes, consumers may see an increase in the prices of their favorite vape products. It’s important to be aware of these changes when budgeting for vape purchases.
- Limited Public Use: Vapers should also be aware of the new public use restrictions, which may limit where they can vape in public spaces.
For Vape Businesses:
- Increased Compliance: Retailers will need to invest in new systems for age verification and product labeling to comply with the updated laws.
- Higher Costs: With the introduction of the new taxes and the costs associated with obtaining the necessary licenses, businesses may face higher operational costs.
- Advertising Opportunities: While the advertising ban has been relaxed, businesses will need to ensure that any advertisements follow the new rules and are targeted appropriately to adult consumers.
Stay Informed and Compliant with UAE Vape Laws
May 2025 brings significant updates to the UAE’s vape laws, with some regulations expiring and others becoming stricter. Whether you’re a consumer or a business in Vape Law Update UAE the vape industry, it’s essential to stay informed about these changes to avoid penalties and ensure a smooth experience. From advertising and product labeling to increased taxation and public use restrictions, the updated laws aim to strike a balance between safety, regulation, and consumer choice.
If you’re unsure about how these new laws affect you or your business, now is the time to review your practices and make any necessary adjustments to stay compliant.
For more details on how the new vape laws affect you, make sure to stay up to date with government announcements and industry news. If you’re a vape retailer, begin reviewing your business’s licensing requirements and product packaging to ensure compliance.
FAQ
1. What is the new minimum age to purchase vape products in the UAE?
The minimum age to purchase vape products in the UAE is now 21, following new age verification measures introduced in May 2025.
2. Are flavored e-liquids still banned in the UAE?
No, the ban on flavored e-liquids has been lifted, but all flavored products must meet specific health and safety regulations.
3. Can I still advertise vape products in the UAE?
Yes, but advertising is now restricted to platforms that cater specifically to adults, with clear health warnings.
4. Will vape product prices increase in the UAE?
Yes, due to new taxes, the prices of vape products in the UAE are expected to rise.
5. Where can I vape in public under the new regulations?
Vaping is now prohibited in certain public areas, including shopping malls, parks, and government buildings. Always check local guidelines.
