The UAE takes vaping regulations seriously, especially regarding the ingredients in e-liquids. Since 2019, all vape products sold in the country must comply with ESMA standards — strict rules that control what’s allowed, how it must be labeled, and how it should be manufactured. These standards exist to protect consumers from unsafe chemicals, counterfeit products, and unregulated vape liquids.
If you’re vaping in the UAE or planning to buy e-liquids locally, understanding these rules helps you stay safe and avoid illegal products.
The Governing Body: ESMA
All e-liquids in the UAE fall under the regulations of:
ESMA – Emirates Authority for Standardization and Metrology
This authority sets the nationwide standards for:
- Ingredients
- Nicotine levels
- Packaging
- Labeling
- Safety certification
Any vape liquid sold legally in the UAE must pass ESMA approval.
What Ingredients Are Allowed in UAE E-Liquids?
E-liquids must be made using ingredients that meet international safety and manufacturing standards. These are the core ingredients allowed:
1. Propylene Glycol (PG)
A standard base ingredient used for throat hit and carrying flavor.
2. Vegetable Glycerin (VG)
Used for vapor production and smoothing out the inhale.
3. Approved Flavorings
Food-grade, inhalation-safe flavor concentrates are allowed. Flavors must not contain oils or known harmful compounds.
4. Nicotine (Optional)
Nicotine is permitted as long as the product remains within approved strength levels and is appropriately labeled.
What’s Not Allowed in UAE E-Liquids?
Some ingredients are entirely banned because of their harmful or unstable nature.
1. Diacetyl and similar diketones
Linked to respiratory issues (“popcorn lung”).
2. Vitamin E Acetate
The chemical associated with the 2019 EVALI lung injury outbreak.
3. Essential oils or oil-based flavorings
Oils are unsafe for inhalation and can cause lipid pneumonia.
4. Unknown or unlisted chemicals
E-liquids must disclose all ingredients. Hidden additives are prohibited.
5. THC or cannabis derivatives
Strictly illegal under all UAE laws.
6. Unauthorized sweeteners or colorings
Only approved, food-grade additives are allowed.
Nicotine Strength Regulations
ESMA places limits on how strong nicotine liquids can be.
Freebase Liquids
Typically allowed up to certain mg limits (varies by product type).
Nicotine Salts
Usually regulated more tightly due to higher absorption rates.
All nicotine products must include:
- Clear nicotine content
- Health warnings
- Safe usage instructions
Manufacturing and Safety Standards
All e-liquids sold legally in the UAE must meet international manufacturing best practices.
Requirements include:
- Properly sterilized facilities
- Cleanliness standards
- Safe bottling procedures
- Leak-proof, tamper-evident packaging
Products must pass chemical testing before approval.
ESMA Labeling Requirements
Every legal e-liquid in the UAE must display specific information on the packaging.
Required labels include:
- Full ingredients list
- Nicotine strength
- Health warning labels
- Batch number
- Manufacturing date and expiry date
- Manufacturer information
- Childproof cap notice
If the packaging is missing any of these, it’s likely non-compliant.
Are Imported E-Liquids Allowed?
Only if they meet ESMA standards do many foreign e-liquids — even reputable ones — comply with UAE requirements, because their packaging or ingredients don’t match local requirements.
Common reasons for rejection:
- Mislabeling
- Missing warnings
- Excessive nicotine levels
- Banned additives
This is why some international brands are NOT found in shops in the UAE.
What About DIY E-Liquids?
Homemade or DIY vape liquids are not allowed for sale in the UAE. While private personal mixing isn’t explicitly policed, selling DIY liquids is illegal.
Penalties for Non-Compliant E-Liquids
Shops caught selling unapproved or counterfeit liquids may face:
- Heavy fines
- Product confiscation
- License suspension
- Permanent closure
Consumers using unapproved liquids may have products seized at customs.
How to Ensure Your E-Liquid Is Legal and Safe
To stay on the safe side:
- Buy from licensed UAE vape shops
- Check for ESMA compliance labels.
- Avoid suspiciously cheap liquids.
- Stay away from unknown or unlisted brands.s
- Look for sealed, tamper-evident bottles.
If you’re unsure, ask the seller or compare the product on the brand’s official website.
FAQs
Are there limits on nicotine strength in UAE e-liquids?
Yes. Nicotine levels must comply with ESMA regulations, and all strengths must be clearly labeled on packaging.
Can I bring e-liquids from outside the UAE?
You can bring small quantities for personal use, but customs may confiscate liquids that don’t meet UAE standards.
Why do some brands sold abroad not appear in the UAE?
Because their ingredients or packaging don’t meet ESMA regulations, even if they’re legal elsewhere.
Are sweet or dessert flavors allowed in the UAE?
Yes, but only if the flavor ingredients comply with ESMA’s food-grade and inhalation-safety standards.
Are zero-nicotine e-liquids regulated, too?
Yes. All e-liquids — nicotine or not — must follow the same ESMA rules.
How can I check if my e-liquid is ESMA-approved?
Look for the ESMA compliance label, proper ingredient list, and mandated warnings. Licensed UAE shops only sell approved liquids.
Are disposable vape flavors regulated, too?
Yes. Disposables must meet the same ingredient and labeling standards as bottled e-liquids.
Can shops make their own e-liquid?
No. Only licensed manufacturers with ESMA-approved facilities can produce vape liquids for sale.
Final Thoughts
The UAE has some of the strictest e-liquid regulations in the world — not to discourage vaping, but to ensure product safety. As long as you stick to licensed retailers and products with proper ESMA labeling, you can be confident that your vape liquids meet the country’s health and safety standards.
