Vape Compliance UAE

May 9, 2025

Introduction

Vape compliance in the UAE is becoming a vital part of retail operations, especially in high-profile areas like Dubai Mall. As regulations tighten to ensure public health and product safety, businesses are turning to Vape Compliance Officers to bridge the gap between legal mandates and on-the-ground practices.

In this article, we dive into a real-world interview with a Vape Compliance Officer working in Dubai Mall. The goal? To explore what vape compliance UAE actually looks like in practice — from regulatory challenges to enforcing strict age-verification and packaging rules.

Whether you’re a business owner, job seeker, or simply curious about the evolving vape landscape in the UAE, this insider look is packed with valuable insights.

What Does a Vape Compliance Officer Do?

Role and Responsibilities

A Vape Compliance Officer ensures that all vape-related products sold in retail settings comply with UAE laws. Their responsibilities include:

Verifying product registration with Emirates Authority for Standardization and Metrology (ESMA)
Checking for proper labeling and health warnings
Ensuring staff understand and implement age-verification procedures
Reporting violations and coordinating with mall management or government authorities

Regulatory Background in the UAE

Since April 2019, the UAE has enforced strict regulations on e-cigarettes, vape devices, and e-liquids. Products must meet ESMA standards and carry health warnings similar to tobacco products. Importantly, vape sales to individuals under 18 are strictly prohibited.

Exclusive Interview: Vape Compliance Officer at Dubai Mall

We had the opportunity to speak with Imran Siddiqui, a compliance officer assigned to a group of retail vape shops within Dubai Mall. His experience offers an eye-opening look at what it takes to stay compliant under constant regulatory scrutiny.

What motivated you to pursue this role in vape compliance?

“The UAE’s stance on public health is evolving, and I saw an opportunity to contribute to safer consumer practices. Vape compliance is still a niche field, so I wanted to be part of that foundational work.”

What does a typical day look like for you at Dubai Mall?

“My day starts with a review of the latest regulatory updates from ESMA. Then I inspect stores for compliance — checking packaging, verifying if all products are listed in the ESMA database, and observing sales transactions.”

What are the most common compliance violations you encounter?

“Unregistered vape liquids are still a big issue. Some retailers import products without proper documentation. Also, some staff don’t fully understand the ID verification rules, which is a major compliance risk.”

How do you handle non-compliance?

“We follow a structured warning system. First-time offenders are issued a written notice and undergo training. Repeat violations get reported to the Dubai Economic Department (DED), which can result in fines or closure.”

Why Vape Compliance Matters in the UAE

Health and Safety First

The UAE government has positioned public health as a priority. Vape products, if unregulated, pose risks due to unverified ingredients and unsafe devices. Compliance ensures only safe, tested products reach consumers.

Protecting Youth

Selling vapes to minors is a major concern worldwide. Vape compliance officers serve as a frontline defense, ensuring retailers enforce the age restriction with diligence.

Business Reputation and Licensing

Retailers failing to comply with vape regulations risk losing their trade licenses. Maintaining a compliance strategy protects both revenue and reputation.

Key Vape Compliance Requirements in the UAE

ESMA Registration

All vape products must be registered with ESMA. This includes providing detailed product information and test results. Non-registered products cannot be legally sold.

Packaging and Health Warnings

Product packaging must include the following:

Arabic and English health warnings
Nicotine content
Manufacturer details
Batch number and production date

Age Verification

Retailers are required to check IDs of customers appearing under 25. Selling to minors can result in fines exceeding AED 10,000.

Advertising Restrictions

Promotion of vape products is tightly controlled. Ads must not target youth or make misleading health claims.

Challenges Faced by Vape Compliance Officers

Changing Regulations

“The laws can change with little notice,” Imran says. “You need to stay updated or risk being out of compliance without even knowing.”

Staff Training

Many retailers hire part-time workers who aren’t well-versed in the rules. This requires ongoing staff education to maintain compliance.

Gray Market Imports

Unofficial vape products often find their way into the UAE. Identifying and reporting these items is a constant challenge.

The Role of Dubai Mall in Supporting Vape Compliance

Dubai Mall management actively supports vape compliance officers by:

Offering compliance training workshops for tenants
Enforcing store penalties for repeated violations
Providing direct channels to report non-compliance anonymously

According to Imran, “Having mall management on your side makes enforcement more effective. We’re not just enforcing rules — we’re part of a culture of safety.”

Future of Vape Compliance in the UAE

As the vape industry matures, compliance will only grow more robust. Potential future developments include:

AI-driven product verification at point of sale
Centralized ESMA compliance tracking
Stricter penalties for importers of non-registered products

Imran believes the UAE may also introduce public awareness campaigns. “Compliance is easier when the public understands why it matters,” he says.

Why Vape Compliance Is Everyone’s Responsibility

Vape compliance in the UAE is more than just ticking legal boxes. It’s about protecting consumers, upholding business integrity, and contributing to a healthier society. The interview with Imran Siddiqui sheds light on the often-overlooked but critical role of compliance officers in this ecosystem.

If you’re a business owner in Dubai Mall or anywhere in the UAE, now is the time to audit your compliance protocols. Stay ahead of the curve by understanding vape compliance UAE laws and applying them consistently.

Ready to improve your store’s vape compliance strategy?
Get in touch with a certified vape compliance consultant today and secure your business future.

FAQs

What are the vape regulations in the UAE?

The UAE requires all vape products to be registered with ESMA, include proper labeling, and follow strict rules on advertising and sales to minors.

Is vaping legal in Dubai Mall?

Yes, but only under strict regulations. Only ESMA-compliant products can be sold, and age verification is mandatory.

What is ESMA in vape compliance?

ESMA (Emirates Authority for Standardization and Metrology) sets the standards for product safety and ensures all vape products meet those benchmarks.