In a landmark public health decision, the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) has officially approved the sale and regulated use of tobacco-free nicotine pouches, offering smokers a less harmful alternative to cigarettes. The move aligns with the UAE’s Vision 2031 health objectives to reduce smoking rates and combat tobacco-related diseases.
Table of Contents
Key Details of the New Regulation
1. Approved Products & Restrictions
✔ Tobacco-free nicotine pouches (e.g., Zyn, Velo, On!) are now legal
✔ Banned flavors targeting youth (e.g., candy, fruit)
✔ Age-restricted sales (21+ only)
✔ Health warnings required on packaging
2. Where They Can Be Used
- Allowed in smoke-free zones (unlike cigarettes)
- Prohibited in schools, mosques, and government buildings
- No spitting required (unlike traditional snus)
3. Pricing & Taxation
- 20% excise tax (vs. 100% on cigarettes)
- Available in pharmacies and licensed stores
- Prescription-free, but sales are tracked via digital ID
Why This Decision Matters
- Public Health Impact
- No tar or combustion – significantly lower cancer risk
- UK study shows 45% quit rate when used as a cessation aid
- Could reduce UAE’s 19% adult smoking rate (WHO 2024)
- Economic Shift
- $120M market potential by 2026 (Euromonitor)
- Philip Morris International is already registering products
- Regional Leadership
- First GCC nation to fully regulate (not ban) nicotine pouches
- Sets precedent for Saudi Arabia, Qatar
Medical Community Response
Supportive
“Far safer than cigarettes,” says Dr. Fatima Al-Mazrouei, Dubai Health Authority
Cautious
“Still addictive – must be short-term use only,” warns Emirates Medical Association
What Smokers Should Know
✅ Effectiveness
- Delivers nicotine without lung damage
- Discreet & odorless
⚠️ Risks
- Not 100% harmless (may cause gum irritation)
- Black market risk if prices rise
Global Context
- Sweden: Snus helped achieve Europe’s lowest smoking rates
- USA: Nicotine pouch sales tripled since 2022
- Singapore Still bans all nicotine alternatives