Introduction: The UAE Vaping Landscape
The vaping industry in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has grown significantly, offering a wide variety of vape devices, e-liquids, and disposable vapes for adult smokers seeking alternatives to traditional cigarettes. With government-regulated sales and a growing demand for quality and safety, How to Choose a Vape in UAE is easier but also more important than ever.
Whether you’re new to vaping or looking to upgrade your device, this guide will walk you through all the essential factors—from device types to nicotine strengths, local laws, and where to buy.
Understanding the Types of Vapes
Closed System vs. Open System Vapes
Closed-System (Pod-Based Devices)
These come with pre-filled cartridges and are easy to use.
- Example: RELX Infinity, MYLÉ, JUUL
- Pros: No maintenance, ideal for beginners
- Cons: Limited flavor selection, can be more expensive long-term (How to Choose a Vape in UAE)
Open-System (Refillable Vapes)
These allow you to refill e-liquids and change coils or pods.
- Example: Vaporesso XROS, SMOK Nord, GeekVape Aegis
- Pros: More customization, cost-effective
- Cons: Requires maintenance and understanding of coils/wattage
Disposable Vapes
- Fully pre-charged and pre-filled
- No buttons, inhale-activated
- Popular models: Elf Bar, VOZOL, HYPERJOY, GHOST Galaxy
- Best for: New users or travelers in UAE
What to Consider When Choosing a Vape in the UAE
1. Purpose: Quitting Smoking or Social Use?
If you’re trying to quit smoking:
- Go for nicotine salt-based vapes (e.g., RELX, disposable vapes)
- Look for mouth-to-lung (MTL) devices for a tighter, cigarette-like draw
If it’s for occasional use:
- Choose a flavorful disposable or a customizable vape with low nicotine
2. Nicotine Strength
In the UAE, the most common nicotine strengths are:
- 20MG (2%) – Legal limit for e-liquids
- 50MG (5%) – Found in imported or disposable devices
- 0MG – For those who want flavor without nicotine
⚠️ Regulation Tip: In UAE, maximum nicotine allowed in e-liquids is 20MG, but some disposable vapes still offer up to 50MG due to international imports.(How to Choose a Vape in UAE)
3. Flavor Preference
Flavor can make or break your vaping experience. Popular categories:
- Menthol/Mint – Ideal for the UAE’s hot climate
- Fruits – Mango, Grape, Watermelon are common
- Dessert/Sweet – Vanilla, Custard, Cola
- Tobacco – For ex-smokers who want familiarity
Top UAE flavors: Blue Razz Ice, Mango Peach, Mint Chill, Grape Ice
4. Budget and Usage
| User Type | Ideal Option | Estimated Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Beginner | Disposable vape (e.g., Elf Bar) | AED 35–60 |
| Moderate User | Refillable pod (e.g., XROS, Caliburn) | AED 80–180 |
| Heavy User/Enthusiast | Advanced mod (e.g., GeekVape, VooPoo) | AED 200–400+ |
5. Battery Life
- Disposables: 400–850mAh (lasts 1–3 days)
- Pod systems: 600–1000mAh (charge daily)
- Mods: 1500mAh+ (can last full day of heavy use)
6. Size & Portability
For discreet use in the UAE, choose:
- Slim pod kits like Uwell Caliburn
- Compact disposables like ELF BAR 600 or 1500 puffs
Avoid bulky mods if you’re often traveling or commuting.
Legal Guidelines and Safety in UAE
Is Vaping Legal in UAE?
Yes, vaping is legal in the UAE since 2019, but regulated under Emirates Authority for Standardization and Metrology (ESMA).(How to Choose a Vape in UAE)
What’s Regulated?
- Nicotine limit: 20MG for refillable liquids
- Sales: Only to individuals aged 18+
- Importing: Only permitted through approved suppliers
- Usage: Prohibited in government buildings, malls, hospitals
Vape Safety Tips
- Buy from authorized retailers
- Avoid refilling closed pods
- Don’t modify your device unless you’re experienced
- Charge only with original chargers
Where to Buy Vapes in UAE
Trusted Online Stores
- VapeDubaiKing.com – Huge variety of disposables and kits
- MyVapery.ae – Official retailer of RELX, XROS, and e-liquids
- IQOSDubai.ae – Premium heat-not-burn devices like IQOS Iluma
- VapeGate.ae – Offers fast delivery in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah
Physical Retailers
- Vape kiosks in Dubai Mall, Abu Dhabi Mall
- Specialty vape shops in Deira, Karama, Marina
- Select convenience stores carry basic disposables
🛍 Pro Tip: Online stores often offer bundle discounts, free delivery, and COD (Cash on Delivery) options. (How to Choose a Vape in UAE)
Vape Specifications Comparison (Popular Models)
| Model | Type | Battery | Puffs | Nicotine | Price (AED) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Elf Bar 5000 | Disposable | 650mAh | 5000 | 50MG | 55–60 |
| VOZOL 40000 | Disposable | 600mAh+ | 40000 | 50MG | 85–100 |
| Vaporesso XROS 3 | Refillable | 1000mAh | Refill | 20MG Max | 120–140 |
| RELX Infinity 2 | Closed Pod | 440mAh | Pod-based | 18MG | 140–160 |
| Uwell Caliburn G3 | Refillable | 900mAh | Refill | 20MG Max | 120–150 |
FAQs: How to Choose a Vape in UAE
Q1: Can tourists buy vapes in the UAE?
Yes, tourists can legally purchase and use vapes in the UAE. However, they must be 18 years or older and comply with local public smoking restrictions.
Q2: Which vape is best for quitting smoking?
Pod-based systems with nicotine salts (like RELX or refillable XROS kits) provide a similar experience to cigarettes and help reduce cravings.
Q3: Are disposables allowed in checked luggage?
Disposables and lithium batteries must be carried in hand luggage only. UAE airlines do not allow vapes in checked bags.
Q4: What’s the best vape flavor for beginners?
Menthol and fruit blends like Blueberry Ice, Mango Peach, or Mint Chill are generally the most accepted by first-time users.
Q5: Can I refill a disposable vape?
No. Disposable vapes are non-refillable and meant to be discarded after use.
Q6: Are imported vapes safe?
Only purchase from authorized UAE sellers to ensure compliance with ESMA standards. Imported vapes may exceed legal nicotine limits or be counterfeit.
Q7: How long does a 5000 puff vape last?
For an average user taking ~200 puffs per day, a 5000-puff vape can last around 7–10 days.
Final Thoughts: Making the Right Choice in the UAE
Choosing the right vape in the UAE (How to Choose a Vape in UAE) depends on your needs, lifestyle, and preferences. Whether you want something portable, flavorful, cost-effective, or premium, the UAE vape market has reliable options for all types of users.
✅ If you’re a beginner:
Start with a disposable vape like Elf Bar or a simple closed pod system.
✅ If you want long-term savings and customization:
Go for a refillable pod device like Vaporesso or Caliburn.
✅ If you’re upgrading or a hobbyist:
Explore advanced box mods or sub-ohm vapes with adjustable power and tanks.
With thousands of options and legal accessibility in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and beyond, choosing the right vape in the UAE has never been easier—or more exciting. (How to Choose a Vape in UAE)