The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has given the green light to the sale of synthetic nicotine pouches, subject to sellers adhering to government-set safety standards. The decision was made with the hope that introducing smoke-free nicotine alternatives to the market would help individuals quit smoking. Smoking rates in the UAE and the Middle East remain relatively high, at 12% and 20%, respectively.
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The UAE’s largest school network, GEMS Education Group, has launched a comprehensive anti-vaping campaign. The initiative, set to take effect in August 2025, includes stringent measures such as random bag inspections, the installation of advanced vaping detection sensors, and the incorporation of anti-vaping education into the curriculum.
Read moreIslamic banks in the United Arab Emirates that issue credit cards operating according to Sharia principles have started prohibiting card transactions at shops selling electronic cigarettes and shisha. This unprecedented move applies to both credit and direct debit cards issued by these banks. Shoppers holding such cards have confirmed to “Emarat Al Youm” that all shops in this category now reject payments using these banks’ cards.
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