The Rise of Electronic Shisha in the UAE: What You Should Know

The Rise of Electronic Shisha in the UAE: What You Should Know

11 April 2025 | Sowmiya Rajagopalan

The Rise of Electronic Shisha in the UAE: What You Should Know

Electronic shisha has gained significant traction among users in the UAE recently. This modern alternative to traditional hookah smoking has sparked widespread interest due to its convenience, variety, and the perception that it may be a less harmful substitute.
While the cultural practice of smoking shisha remains deeply rooted in the UAE's social traditions, e-shisha is quickly carving out its own place within the market. With diverse flavors, and a tech-forward approach, it attracts a broad audience, especially younger, tech-savvy consumers. But what exactly is e-shisha, and what do you need to know about its rise in popularity?

What Is Electronic Shisha?

Electronic shisha devices mimic the experience of traditional shisha smoking. Instead of using charcoal to heat flavored tobacco, e-shisha uses battery-powered coils to vaporize a liquid solution, often referred to as e-liquid. This solution typically contains a mixture of propylene glycol, glycerin, flavoring compounds, and, in some cases, nicotine. The result is an inhalable vapor that simulates shisha smoke without requiring the cumbersome setup of a traditional hookah.
One of the key differences lies in portability and ease of use. Unlike the stationary and intricate setup of traditional hookahs, e-shisha devices are compact and often handheld, making them a practical choice for users on the go. Additionally, they offer a cleaner smoking experience by eliminating the need for burning charcoal, which can produce harmful byproducts such as carbon monoxide.

Why Is Electronic Shisha Popular in the UAE?

The increasing popularity of electronic shisha in the UAE can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the UAE's tech-savvy population and growing global trends toward electronic vaping devices have created a fertile market for such innovations. E-shisha offers users the ability to enjoy the traditional act of shisha smoking in a more modern and convenient way. This aligns with the UAE's reputation for blending tradition and modernity seamlessly.
Another major factor is the variety of flavors available in e-shisha liquids. Traditional shisha flavors, such as mint, apple, and rose, remain popular, but e-shisha takes this diversity to a new level by introducing more exotic options, such as tropical fruits, desserts, or even uniquely blended concoctions. This wide flavor range has piqued the curiosity and interest of many users, offering a personalized experience that resonates well with individual tastes.

Understanding the Regulations

The UAE has taken proactive steps to regulate the sale, advertisement, and use of electronic smoking devices, including e-shisha, to ensure consumer safety. The Emirates Authority for Standardization and Metrology (ESMA) mandates that all vaping products comply with specific guidelines, including proper labeling, restricted marketing practices, and safety standards. Nicotine content is also regulated, and access to these products is prohibited for individuals under the age of 18.

The Cultural Perspective

Traditional shisha smoking is a centuries-old practice in Middle Eastern culture, often associated with leisure, hospitality, and social connection. The concept of sitting together around a hookah, sharing conversation and companionship, is deeply rooted in the region's traditions. Electronic shisha challenges this cultural paradigm by offering a more individualized and portable experience.
While some see e-shisha as a way to modernize the tradition, others view it as a departure from the communal essence of traditional shisha use. However, many users have found a way to blend the two experiences, incorporating e-shisha devices into social settings while still engaging in traditional rituals. This adaptability has allowed electronic shisha to coexist alongside its traditional counterpart without completely displacing it.
The rise of electronic shisha in the UAE reflects the region's ability to adapt to modern innovations while preserving its rich cultural heritage. E-shisha offers convenience, variety, and a perception of reduced health risks, making it highly attractive to a wide range of users. However, it is essential for consumers to approach it with awareness and caution, given the ongoing research into its long-term effects.
Regulations, public awareness, and responsible use will play a vital role in shaping the future of e-shisha in the UAE. Its growing popularity serves as a reminder of how traditions can evolve by incorporating new technologies, ultimately giving people more choices in how they wish to engage with these practices.

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