What You Need To Know About Vaping In Saudi Arabia (2024)

What You Need To Know About Vaping In Saudi Arabia

posted on: Feb 6, 2020

What You Need To Know About Vaping In Saudi Arabia (1)

Saudi Arabia actively tries to reduce the national smoking rate. Cultural practices, as well as religious beliefs, create a sound base for government initiatives. By 2030, the Kingdom aims to narrow down the percentage of smoking people to 5%, as per WHO standards. However, with the vaping trend, it becomes harder to implement this initiative. Even with the current vaping ban in the country, the local population finds ways to get electronic cigarettes. This article answers most of the vaping-related questions people traveling to Saudi Arabia need to be aware of.

The State Of Vaping In The Country

Saudi Arabia, as a rest of the world, is engaged in the rising vaping trend. The Saudi citizens used to smoke, despite this habit being considered taboo. According to the Saudi Diabetes and Endocrine Association, the number of smokers in the country has reached more than 5 million people. It also predicts that this number will rise to 10 million by 2020.

Recently, many Saudis have started switching to vaping because of the comparatively lower health risks. While some do this as a means of battling their addiction, others, especially youth, see vaping as a cool alternative to smoking. And by the way, such devices as Juuls and vapingdaily 510 thread vape pens rise are on top of popularity because of their flavored juices.

The research has shown that vaping is popular mostly among the educated, employed, or studying males. Similarly to smoking, vaping is culturally unacceptable among females in Saudi Arabia. That’s why there are almost no women with an electronic cigarette in the country.

Is Vaping Legal In Saudi Arabia?

Electronic cigarettes fall into a grey area in the whole Middle East. When speaking about the legality of vaping in Saudi Arabia, the answer is not so definitive. According to Saudi legislation, the vapes are classified as reduced-risk products (RRPs). There are two sides of the issue: personal use and sale & distribution.

In regards to personal use, vaping is legal. That means that the country’s citizens, as well as the tourists, can vape in the Kingdome. However, there are several restrictions on vaping in public places such as educational institutions, religious establishments (including mosques and saints’ memorials ), and cultural sites. Also, the law partly limits e-cigarettes use in private spaces, too. For example, no one is allowed to vape in elevators, restrooms, or food production facilities. Lastly, there is an age restriction that forbids anyone below 18 to use e-cigarettes.

The tourists who plan a trip to Saudi Arabia are safe to bring their e-cigarette devices with them. There is no restriction on the type of the invention, so a 510 thread vape pen, which becomes increasingly popular, is also allowed.

At the same time, any e-cigarette related commercial activity is against the law. In September 2015, the Saudi Arabia Ministry of Commerce and Investment banned the sale of all vaping devices and related products, including cartridges, oils, and best 510 thread batteries. Advertising activity in all media such as press, TV, and billboards is not permitted as well. The law prohibits the import of vaping products in the country from abroad for retailing purposes. Anyone who is engaged in this illegal activity will be fined, and all the items will be confiscated. For foreign citizens, it may end up with deportation and possible travel ban to Saudi Arabia.

How The Saudi Citizens Get Around The Ban

Even though there is no legal possibility to buy e-cigarettes in the Kingdome, people find the loopholes to get these items. In most cases, the international shipment of vapes, as well as the best 510 thread battery for cartridges, is not an option. The users point out that their packages do not even arrive at the destination, and they do not get any notification why. More than likely that the customs service confiscates such items. Hopefully, those who order e-cigarettes internationally are not fined. The only chance to receive an order is if the shipment is under the radar.

There are also vape shops which work in the country. Their shops have no physical sites and are only accessible online. They can be found on the Internet or such social media like Instagram. Of course, these shops operate illegally, and everyone who tries to buy e-cigarettes in this way risk a run-in with the law. In any case, such shops have a wide range of products from vape mods to oils & cartridges to best 510 batteries. It is reported that the delivery is carried out directly to the customer’s place, and payment is by cash. This caution keeps a buyer’s and seller’s anonymity.

Because the government bans any sale of vaping products, the risk of getting unlicensed or bad-quality e-cigarette devices is high. Some of the neighboring countries have adopted not such strict laws on vaping. The regulation in Bahrain and Kuwait is low: e-cigarettes there are allowed only under the name of “e-shisha.” Oman and Qatar have no regulation at all. As a result, Bahrain has become the number one country for sourcing vaping equipment and accessories by smugglers. Unfortunately, many Saudi citizens employ smuggling services and risk not only to be caught, but they also endanger their health.

The Future Of Vaping In Saudi Arabia

The current regulation on vaping products makes the sale of e-cigarette and related items against the law. However, the situation may change, considering government initiatives in 2019. The General Authority of Zakat and Tax expanded the list of the products which fall under an individual 100% excise tax. The new corrections included electronic cigarettes, among other products. The reason for a tax is an aim to increase the revenues of the non-oil industries after a decrease in global oil prices. These steps give a little, but quite possible, hope that the government considers an opportunity to switch from banning to regulating vape sales in the future.

What You Need To Know About Vaping In Saudi Arabia (2024)

FAQs

Are Vapes allowed in Saudi Arabia? ›

There is no explicit law banning vaping in Saudi Arabia, and vapers are free to publicly indulge in the activity — but there are no legal ways to get a vape module, vape juice or any of the equipment needed to vape.

What do I need to know about Vapes? ›

Before choosing your e-cig there are a few things that every new vaper needs to know;
  • There is an ideal e-cigarette for pretty much everyone. ...
  • You will probably cough at first. ...
  • You might get a dry mouth. ...
  • There might be false starts. ...
  • Vape like a vaper, not a smoker. ...
  • You may get frustrated. ...
  • You can vape too much.

What are 5 facts about vaping? ›

Vaping facts
  • Many vapes contain nicotine making them addictive.
  • Vapes can contain the same harmful chemicals found in cleaning products, nail polish remover, weed killer and bug spray.
  • Vapes can leave young people at increased risk of depression and anxiety.
  • The nicotine in 1 vape can = 50 cigarettes.

Is nicotine legal in Saudi Arabia? ›

Sales Restrictions

The law prohibits the sale of smokeless tobacco products, single cigarettes, and small packs of cigarettes. In addition, the law prohibits the sale of tobacco products via vending machines and on means of public transport. There are no restrictions on the internet sale of tobacco products.

Can vape go through Customs? ›

Electronic smoking devices are allowed only in carry-on baggage. Passengers are required to take effective measures for preventing accidental activation of the heating element of the device when transporting the devices.

How many vape juice can I bring in Saudi Arabia? ›

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is one such country where the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO) has issued Technical Regulations for vape products. 10mL limit on bottles of e-liquid.

Is vaping halal or haram in Islam? ›

Is Vaping Haram in Islam? Generally, vaping is considered haram, as it can be harmful to a person's health.

How long does vape smoke stay in the air? ›

Even in a poorly ventilated area with windows shut, any smells from vaping should be gone in only ten minutes or so, instead of lasting around for hours like smoking. When one is vaping outdoors in comparison, the smell from your vape will hardly be noticeable at all and will disappear extremely quickly.

What are the risks of vaping? ›

The e-cigarette aerosol that users breathe from the device and exhale can contain harmful and potentially harmful substances, including:
  • Nicotine.
  • Ultrafine particles that can be inhaled deep into the lungs.
  • Flavorings such as diacetyl, a chemical linked to a serious lung disease.
  • Volatile organic compounds.

How many deaths has vaping? ›

68 deaths

What are the benefits of vape? ›

Benefits of vaping

Vaping can help some people quit smoking. Vaping is usually cheaper than smoking. Vaping is not harmless, but it is much less harmful than smoking. Vaping is less harmful to those around you than smoking, as there's no current evidence that second-hand vapour is dangerous to others.

What is a scary fact about vaping? ›

Vape aerosol can contain some of the same chemicals found in cigarette smoke, including chromium, formaldehyde, lead, and nickel. And the high level of nicotine in JUUL pods and other vapes can affect brain function and impact your attention and memory.

What happens if you smoke in Saudi Arabia? ›

Individuals found violating the ban receive a fine of between 200 SAR ($53 USD) and 5000 SAR ($1300 USD). The same decree applies to all forms of public transport (including facilities such as bus stations), and manufacturing/processing plants.

What are some weird laws in Saudi Arabia? ›

The deeply conservative country has a whole host of strict rules and laws - here are some of the more obscure things you can be arrested for:
  • Dabbing. ...
  • Witchcraft. ...
  • Making wine. ...
  • Eating in the family section of restaurants if you're on your own. ...
  • Celebrating your birthday. ...
  • LGBTQ relations. ...
  • Taking pictures of buildings or people.
Jul 19, 2018

What is forbidden in Saudi Arabia? ›

Saudi law prohibits the importation of weapons, alcohol, narcotics, pork and pork products, p*rnographic materials, distillery equipment, re-treaded or used tyres, used clothing and certain sculptures. Personal videos, books, and magazines may be subjected to scrutiny and be censored on arrival.

Will TSA take my vape out of my checked bag? ›

When a carry-on bag is checked at the gate or plane side, all electronic cigarette and vaping devices, along with any spare lithium batteries, must be removed from the bag and should be taken with you in the aircraft cabin.

Do vapes get detected at airports? ›

There should be no need to worry as it's perfectly legal to bring a vape through airport security, and it's unlikely that the TSA will ask you to take it out of your carry-on luggage. It is possible that you will be asked to remove the device to be scanned, but there is no need to worry.

Do you have to declare a vape at the airport? ›

As long as you stick to the general rules about what is and is not permitted to take through security, you should not encounter any difficulties. The only issue that you may have is when it comes to the e-liquid because you can only carry containers no larger than 100 ml through security.

How many vapes can you take through Customs? ›

You can take electronic cigarettes in your carry-on luggage but are advised to seal e-liquids in a clear bag with a limit of 100ml per bottle. You can take a maximum of 15 batteries (including other devices), packed either in hand or checked luggage provided they are installed within a device.

Can I take ibuprofen to Saudi Arabia? ›

It's important to realize that importing illegal medication or drugs in Saudi Arabia carries stiff penalties – including imprisonment and fines. However, travelers who take prescription medicines such as sleeping pills, painkillers and treatments for ADHD can import these into Saudi Arabia.

Is there a limit to how many vapes you can bring on a plane? ›

Only one item per bag is allowed. The TSA has a "no-fly" list for devices that exceed this size limit. Disposable vapes fall into this category. However, you can still bring a disposable vape on a plane if it is empty.

Can Muslims vape in Ramadan? ›

During this time, practicing Muslims observe a period of fasting during daylight hours. This includes all addictive substances such as vaping, smoking, shisha and smokeless tobacco.

Is vaping allowed in Ramadan? ›

The general rule is that fasting does include refraining from smoking cigarettes or using other tobacco products because you would be ingesting particles of nicotine into the body. The same applies to vaping with e-cigarettes.

Is vape worse than smoking? ›

1: Vaping is less harmful than smoking, but it's still not safe. E-cigarettes heat nicotine (extracted from tobacco), flavorings and other chemicals to create an aerosol that you inhale. Regular tobacco cigarettes contain 7,000 chemicals, many of which are toxic.

Do Vapes smell up your room? ›

Does vaping inside leave a long-lasting smell? Likewise, though some people may notice that vaping inside leaves a slight odour, this is much less noticeable than that of traditional cigarettes smoke. Again, this can be reduced by ensuring good ventilation throughout your home.

Does vape smoke stain teeth? ›

Can Vaping Stain Teeth? Much like smoking, vaping can make your teeth yellow. Nicotine in e-cigarettes can cause teeth to become deeply stained.

Can a doctor tell if you vape? ›

So, unless a patient walks into the clinic with a vaping device in hand and vapor billowing from their mouth, it's unlikely a doctor can tell if they have a history of e-cigarette use.

What happens to your body when you quit vaping? ›

Quitting allows blood circulation to improve and lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease and heart attack. After quitting, your lungs begin to heal, restoring lung capacity and the ability to fight infection. Soon you'll be coughing less and breathing easier — especially during physical activity.

What happens when you quit vaping? ›

When you go without vaping, the nicotine level in your bloodstream drops, which may cause unpleasant feelings, physical symptoms, and strong urges to vape. This is nicotine addiction.

How long does vaping take to damage lungs? ›

“Regular cigarettes can cause lung cancer, breast cancer, heart disease, emphysema, and other diseases. However, it typically takes years, even decades for those conditions to develop. But with vaping, we're seeing lung damage developing in much less time; often under a year.

What percentage of the US is Vapes? ›

Key findings. In 2018, 14.9% of adults had ever used an electronic cigarette (e-cigarette), and 3.2% were current e-cigarette users. The prevalence of adults who had ever used an e-cigarette and were current users was highest among men, non-Hispanic white adults, and those aged 18–24.

What is the safest disposable vape? ›

CCELL disposable vapes are the safest disposables available due to their built-in safety features. All disposable batteries have auto shutoff and over-inhalation protections. If you inhale for too long, the battery will automatically shut off. This keeps the battery from overheating and keeps you safe from scalding.

Can vaping help you lose weight? ›

In short, no, vaping does not help you lose weight. Although E-Liquids contain nicotine that can suppress your appetite, it does not actively take part in helping someone lose weight. But, in the event a smoker looking to quit cigarettes, chooses to swap vaping, they may notice that it helps them maintain their weight.

Does vaping stop anxiety? ›

But in reality, vaping nicotine can add to your stress and can also amplify feelings of depression and anxiety. In fact, according to Truth Initiative survey data, 93% of vapers reported that vaping negatively affected their lives(Opens in a new window) because it made them feel more stressed, depressed, or anxious.

Is it good to vape everyday? ›

The authors of 2018 study used data from a different national health survey to come to a similar conclusion: Daily vaping is associated with an increased risk of heart attack, even when other lifestyle factors are taken into consideration.

What is popcorn lung? ›

What is popcorn lung? Popcorn lung (bronchiolitis obliterans) is an uncommon type of lung disease, but it is not cancer. It's caused by a build-up of scar tissue in the lungs, which blocks the flow of air. A possible link has been suggested between the disease and a chemical called diacetyl.

What can you not bring into Saudi Arabia? ›

Saudi law prohibits the importation of weapons, alcohol, narcotics, pork and pork products, p*rnographic materials, distillery equipment, re-treaded or used tyres, used clothing and certain sculptures. Personal videos, books, and magazines may be subjected to scrutiny and be censored on arrival.

Is vape Haram for Islam? ›

Is Vaping Haram in Islam? Generally, vaping is considered haram, as it can be harmful to a person's health.

Can I smoke in Saudi Arabia? ›

Smoking in Saudi Arabia is banned in airports, workplaces, universities, research centers, hospitals, government buildings, all public places, places involved with tourism, and in and around all places associated with religion, education, public events, sporting establishments, charity associations, all forms of public ...

Which country bans vape? ›

Prohibition is most common in Asia, the Middle East, and South America. Australia has a bizarre prescription-only model for vaping products, and unauthorized importation can result in huge fines. In Japan, nicotine vaping products are illegal, but heated tobacco products like IQOS are completely legal and widely used.

Can you show your ankles in Saudi Arabia? ›

No. Although there is much more flexibility and openness on what men and women who are tourists in Saudi Arabia can wear, you must still wear clothes that look respectful and cover most of your skin, especially your legs for both men and women.

Can you take a Bible to Saudi Arabia? ›

Bringing a Bible and other types of religious texts are allowed into the country as long as it is for personal use.

Does smoking Vapes break Wudu? ›

The use of e-cigarette devices containing Nicotine is considered Haram and therefore prohibited in Islam. However, smoking or vaping will not break the Wudu (ablution). This is because there is a clear list of nullifiers of Wudu and none of these occur through the action of smoking or vaping.

Can you pray Salah If you vape? ›

You can. Vaping does not affect your brain as smoking weed would and since you are in a sound mind and memory you can pray after vaping. But you must do the ritual washing (Wudu) before you pray.

How much is Marlboro in Saudi Arabia? ›

The price of 1 package of Marlboro cigarettes in Riyadh is ﷼‎ 27. This average is based on 9 price points. It can be considered reliable and accurate. Latest update: January 22, 2023.

Can you not wear shorts in Saudi Arabia? ›

Men wearing shorts in public won't be considered a violation of public decorum in Saudi Arabia except in mosques and government offices, a new amendment to the public decency violations schedule...

Do and don'ts in Saudi Arabia? ›

Do not bring any alcohol, pork meat or p*rnographic material into Saudi-Arabia, and refrain from any criticism on Islam or the Royal Family; this is prohibited. The display of any non-Islamic religious symbol (such as a cross) is not recommended.

Can I take my vape to Dubai? ›

UAE Vaping Rules

You can vape in the United Arab Emirates, but you have to be careful where you do it. If you use an e-cigarette in a public place, hospital or in a vehicle, the fines can be hefty. For instance, vaping in the wrong place in Dubai could land you a fine of 2,000 Dirham (around £400).

What vape flavors are banned? ›

Everything from aloe grape, and strawberry, to watermelon bubble gum flavored vape products, are banned along with menthol cigarettes; a decision made by the U.S. Supreme Court after 63 percent of California voters approved the ban.

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