Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC), also known as Dubai World Central, is Dubai’s second airport located in the Jebel Ali area about 55 km south of the city center. Currently handling limited passenger flights — the bulk of traffic goes through Dubai International (DXB) — DWC is primarily a cargo hub. The small passenger terminal does provide smoking areas for travelers passing through.
التدخين في مطار آل مكتوم الدولي - DWC
Smoking Policy at Al Maktoum Airport
DWC follows the same UAE Federal Law No. 15 of 2009 on Tobacco Control that applies to all airports in the country. Smoking is prohibited in enclosed public areas but designated smoking zones are provided for passengers. Given the low volume of passenger traffic, the facilities are basic compared to what you would find at Dubai International.
Airport Layout
Al Maktoum International currently operates a single passenger terminal designed for budget and charter operations. The terminal is small and straightforward — there is one departure hall and a limited number of gates. Airlines operating from DWC have included Wizz Air Abu Dhabi and seasonal charter carriers, though the schedule changes frequently. Most travelers flying to or from Dubai will use DXB instead.
The airport sits on an enormous site earmarked for what is planned to become the world’s largest airport, with a projected capacity of over 200 million passengers annually. For now, passenger operations remain modest.
Smoking Areas
The passenger terminal has a designated smoking area accessible to departing passengers. Given the compact nature of the terminal, you will not need to walk far.
Outside the terminal building, you can smoke in the outdoor areas near the entrance before entering the check-in hall.
If you are looking for the full range of indoor smoking lounges that Dubai is known for, Dubai International Airport (DXB) offers a far more comprehensive setup with lounges in all three terminals.
E-Cigarettes and Vaping
Vaping has been legal in the UAE since April 2019. At DWC, e-cigarettes can be used in the designated smoking areas only. Do not vape inside the terminal building outside of these zones.
Tips for Smokers at Al Maktoum Airport
- The passenger terminal is small, so smoking areas are easy to find
- DWC has far fewer facilities than Dubai International — plan accordingly
- Check your airline’s terminal before traveling, as most Dubai flights use DXB, not DWC
- Outdoor smoking is possible outside the terminal entrance before security
- Duty-free selection is limited compared to DXB
- The airport is about 55 km from central Dubai — allow extra travel time
Summary
| Area | Smoking Allowed | Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Passenger terminal | Yes | Designated area | Limited facilities in current terminal |
| Outside terminal entrance | Yes | Outdoor | Before security |
| General terminal areas | No | — | UAE Federal Law applies |