Looking for a place to smoke at Durban’s King Shaka Airport? Here is your guide to smoking areas at DUR, a modern airport that opened in 2010.
Smoking at Durban King Shaka International Airport – DUR – 2026
Designated outdoor smoking areas are located near the departures entrance and the arrivals exit. These are the main options for general passengers without lounge access.
Bidvest Premier Lounge (Domestic Departures):
The Bidvest Premier Lounge, located on Level 2 (3rd floor) of the domestic departures area, features a separate smoking room. Open daily from 05:00 to 21:00, the lounge is accessible with a Priority Pass, Diners Club card, or purchased day pass. Take the lift or stairs up to Level 2 and the lounge is on the right-hand side. This is the only airside smoking option at King Shaka.
Umphafa Lounge (International Departures):
The Umphafa Lounge is available for international passengers. Smoking facilities are not confirmed in this lounge.
South Africa’s Tobacco Products Control Act prohibits smoking in public places but allows designated smoking areas. King Shaka is a single-terminal airport with outdoor designated zones and the Bidvest Premier Lounge’s smoking room. General passengers without lounge access must use the outdoor areas near the terminal entrances.
Outdoor Smoking Areas
Designated outdoor smoking areas are located near the departures entrance and the arrivals exit. These are the main options for general passengers without lounge access.
Airside — Lounge Smoking
Bidvest Premier Lounge (Domestic Departures):
The Bidvest Premier Lounge, located on Level 2 (3rd floor) of the domestic departures area, features a separate smoking room. Open daily from 05:00 to 21:00, the lounge is accessible with a Priority Pass, Diners Club card, or purchased day pass. Take the lift or stairs up to Level 2 and the lounge is on the right-hand side. This is the only airside smoking option at King Shaka.
Umphafa Lounge (International Departures):
The Umphafa Lounge is available for international passengers. Smoking facilities are not confirmed in this lounge.
King Shaka Airport Smoking Policy
South Africa’s Tobacco Products Control Act prohibits smoking in public places but allows designated smoking areas. King Shaka is a single-terminal airport with outdoor designated zones and the Bidvest Premier Lounge’s smoking room. General passengers without lounge access must use the outdoor areas near the terminal entrances.
Tips for Smokers at King Shaka Airport
- The Bidvest Premier Lounge is the only airside smoking option (domestic departures, Level 2)
- Lounge access via Priority Pass, Diners Club, or day pass purchase
- Outdoor smoking areas are near the departures and arrivals entrances
- King Shaka opened in 2010 — it is a modern, single-terminal facility
- If you do not have lounge access, plan to use the outdoor areas before clearing security
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I smoke inside Durban King Shaka International Airport (DUR)?
No, indoor smoking is not allowed at this airport. You must use the designated outdoor smoking areas.
Where are the smoking areas at Durban King Shaka Airport?
Outside the terminal building at designated smoking areas. Look for signage near the main exits directing you to the nearest smoking zone.
Is there a smoking area after security at Durban King Shaka International Airport (DUR)?
Typically no. You may need to exit the secure area and go outside to smoke, then re-clear security. Check with airport staff for the nearest option.
Can I vape at Durban King Shaka International Airport (DUR)?
Vaping and e-cigarettes are generally subject to the same rules as smoking. Use the designated outdoor smoking areas.