Uganda has one of Africa’s stricter tobacco laws, and Entebbe reflects it: the terminal is smoke-free, with smoking confined to a designated outdoor area at the Arrivals Hall. The same law bans bringing vapes into the country, which every arriving traveller should note.

For international travel through Uganda, Entebbe (EBB) is the airport that matters.

How Ugandan Airport Smoking Works

Uganda’s Tobacco Control Act 2015 is strict:

  • 100% smoke-free indoor public places — no airside or indoor smoking room at Entebbe
  • A designated outdoor smoking area by the Arrivals Hall (landside)
  • Smoking must be at least 50 m from building entrances
  • E-cigarettes/vapes are banned from import — do not bring one into Uganda

The Hub

Entebbe International Airport (EBB). Uganda’s main gateway, recently expanded. The terminal interior is smoke-free; the designated smoking area is outdoors at the landside Arrivals Hall. Departing and transit passengers must smoke before clearing security.

Tips for Smokers at Ugandan Airports

  • Entebbe has no airside smoking — smoke at the outdoor Arrivals Hall area before security
  • Do not bring a vape to Uganda — e-cigarettes are banned from import
  • Keep at least 50 m from terminal entrances when smoking outdoors
  • Plan a no-smoking layover if you’re transiting airside

Uganda Airports Compared: Indoor, Outdoor & After Security

AirportAfter securityIndoor roomOutdoor area
Entebbe International Airport (EBB)Yes

Last updated:

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you smoke at Entebbe Airport (EBB)?

Only outdoors. Entebbe International Airport is smoke-free inside and after security; smoking is confined to a designated outdoor area by the Arrivals Hall (landside). Uganda’s Tobacco Control Act 2015 requires smoking to be at least 50 metres from building entrances.

Are e-cigarettes and vapes legal in Uganda?

No — Uganda’s Tobacco Control Act 2015 bans the import, sale and distribution of e-cigarettes and vapes. Bringing a vape into Uganda is illegal, so do not carry one; treat vaping as prohibited at the airport.

Is there smoking after security at Entebbe Airport?

No — the terminal interior, including airside, is smoke-free. The designated smoking area is at the landside Arrivals Hall, so departing and transit passengers must smoke before clearing security.

Where can I smoke at Entebbe Airport?

At the designated outdoor smoking area by the Arrivals Hall, landside. There is no indoor or airside smoking room.

How strict is Uganda on airport smoking?

Very — the Tobacco Control Act 2015 imposes 100% smoke-free indoor public places, a 50-metre buffer from entrances, and a comprehensive e-cigarette import ban. Smoke only at the designated outdoor area.