Dublin Airport has announced plans to open a new smoking area in one of its terminals, responding to years of passenger requests. The news comes as Ireland’s busiest airport continues to invest in passenger facilities following a record-breaking 2025.
New Smoking Area Coming to Dublin Airport
Speaking in January 2026, Graeme McQueen, DAA head of media relations, confirmed: “We’re hopeful of being able to soon announce plans for a new smoking area in terminal – which has been a constant ask from passengers in recent years.”
Currently, Dublin Airport has just one smoking area after security – The Garden Terrace in Terminal 1. Passengers flying from Terminal 2 must walk 10-15 minutes to access this facility, making it inconvenient for those with tight connections.
Record Passenger Numbers in 2025
The announcement comes as Dublin Airport revealed impressive statistics for 2025:
- Over 35 million passengers traveled through the airport
- Guinness sales topped €8 million – a testament to the popularity of Irish pints before flights
- More than 43 tonnes of Toblerone were sold in duty-free
- 409,000 litres of Irish whiskey purchased by travelers
Other 2026 Improvements
The smoking area is part of broader terminal improvements planned for 2026, including:
- A revamped duty-free area in Terminal 1
- A new lounge in Terminal 1, twice the size of the previous one
- An upgraded 51st and Green lounge in Terminal 2
In 2025, the airport completed the rollout of new C3 scanners in both terminals, removing the 100ml liquid limit – making travel significantly more convenient for passengers.
Current Smoking Options at Dublin Airport
Until the new smoking area opens, travelers can use:
- The Garden Terrace (Terminal 1) – An outdoor beer garden after security, located on the upper level near gates 101-224. Features a bar serving Guinness and other drinks.
- Outside Terminal 1 – Designated area near arrivals
- Outside Terminal 2 – Designated area near departures entrance
For full details on where to smoke at Dublin Airport, see our complete Dublin Airport smoking guide.
Source: Irish Examiner