UAE authorities warn of drug-laced e-cigarettes targeting youth users

UAE health experts and authorities on Saturday, 18 July 2026, intensified warnings regarding the rise of e-cigarettes laced with controlled substances, including synthetic cannabinoids and sedative-hypnotics. These modified vaping devices are being marketed to youth through unregulated social media channels, bypassing standard retail safety checks and posing severe neurological risks to users. Chemical contamination in illegal vape sales Medical professionals from hospitals in Dubai and Abu Dhabi report an increase in emergency room admissions linked to "vape poisoning." Clinical data indicates that illegal vendors often substitute nicotine with synthetic chemicals such as "Spice" or concentrated THC oil, which can cause heart palpitations, seizures, and respiratory failure. Unlike regulated e-cigarettes sold in licensed UAE outlets, these black-market products lack ingredient transparency and manufacturing oversight. The UAE Ministry of Interior and local police forces have increased surveillance of illegal distribution networks. Possession and distribution of drug-laced e-cigarettes fall under the UAE’s strict anti-narcotics laws, which were updated to include synthetic derivatives. Penalties include heavy fines and imprisonment for those caught distributing these prohibited substances to minors. Targeted risks for youth and students Why this matters now is the recent surge in reports from school counsellors and pediatricians regarding behavioral changes in students…