Nicotine Pouches: A New Path to Quitting

New Chance for Quitting Smoking – Nicotine Pouches Approved from July

The United Arab Emirates has taken another step in reducing smoking: from July 29, 2025, so-called tobacco-free nicotine pouches will be legally available. The aim of the decision is to offer an alternative to those who want to quit cigarettes while minimizing the health risks associated with smoking.

What is a nicotine pouch?

A nicotine pouch is a small, tobacco-free, but nicotine-containing product intended to be placed between the gums and lips. Nicotine is absorbed through the mucous membrane, thus it does not involve smoke, burning, or tar - resulting in significantly less risk than traditional tobacco products.

When using the pouch, nicotine releases dopamine, the 'feel-good' hormone, which can reduce the craving for cigarettes and alleviate withdrawal symptoms. Although nicotine is not removed from the body, it helps eliminate the smoking habit, making it an effective transitional solution for many.

Benefits and Questions

The biggest advantage of the nicotine pouch is that it does not involve inhaling smoke, causing less damage to the lungs than traditional tobacco products. Additionally, it can be used discreetly, has no odor, does not require ignition, and its use is less disturbing to the environment.

However, it is important to note that the pouches still contain nicotine - a highly addictive substance. There is still limited scientific data on their long-term effects since this is a relatively new product category.

Some users have reported that the pouch helped them gradually reduce or completely quit cigarettes. For others, however, it is difficult to abandon the 'habit' caused by the pouch held in the mouth, especially for those who would use it instead of chewing tobacco or cigarettes.

Patch or pouch?

Nicotine replacement therapies (NRTs), such as nicotine patches, gum, or lozenges, have been long available in UAE pharmacies. These methods offer different ways of delivering nicotine into the body: the patch, for instance, is absorbed slowly through the skin, while the nicotine pouch works through the oral mucosa.

Patches generally provide a more stable, longer-lasting nicotine intake, while pouches offer a faster, more concentrated nicotine hit. Which is the better choice depends on the preferences and previous attempts of the person wanting to quit.

Regulation and Accessibility

According to the new regulation, nicotine pouches can only be sold through licensed retailers or pharmacies, exclusively to those over 18 years old. The packaging must include prescribed health warnings in Arabic, and products must meet technical requirements.

Most nicotine replacement products are available over-the-counter in the UAE, yet higher dose or combination therapies are recommended to be used under medical supervision.

The Fight Against Smoking Continues

Smoking is one of the leading preventable causes of death worldwide. According to World Health Organization (WHO) data, nearly 8 million people die annually due to the consequences of smoking. Based on the UAE’s National Health Survey of 2018, 16% of men and 2.5% of women smoke.

The authorities aim to assist quitting not only with nicotine products but also with psychological and counseling support. The attention is now extending not only to traditional cigarettes but also to e-cigarettes and other alternative nicotine products.

Summary

The legal introduction of nicotine pouches in the UAE offers another opportunity for those who want to quit smoking but encounter difficulties with traditional methods. Although not risk-free, these products can mitigate health risks and provide a gradual transition to a tobacco-free life.

(Source of the article: UAE Cabinet announcement.)