A new study reveals that nearly four in 10 university students in the UAE use vapes, marking the highest rate among Arab countries. Researchers point to easy access, tasty flavors, online ads, and higher incomes as key drivers, raising health concerns as vaping grows popular among young adults.
Key Findings from the Study
The research, published in 2025, surveyed over 1,300 students across several Arab nations including the UAE, Egypt, Jordan, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia. It found that 39.6 percent of UAE university students use nicotine products like vapes, far above the 24 percent in Kuwait, which ranked second.
This rate stands out as a sharp increase from earlier data. For instance, a 2022 study showed about 23 percent of UAE students had vaped in the past month. The new figures suggest a rising trend, with vaping now more common than traditional smoking in some groups.
Experts note that the study used a validated tool called the Vaping Attitude and Perceptions Scale to measure behaviors and views. This approach helped uncover not just usage stats but also why students start and keep vaping.
Reasons Behind the Rise in Vaping
Students often pick up vaping due to its social appeal and the idea that it is safer than cigarettes. Many see it as a modern habit, boosted by flavors like fruit and mint that make it fun and less harsh.
High incomes in the UAE play a role too. With more money to spend, young people can easily buy vapes, which are sold to anyone over 18. Online marketing targets this group heavily, showing vapes as stylish and low risk.
Peer pressure and social settings add to the mix. In university life, vaping fits into gatherings, much like shisha in the region. The study highlights that beliefs about reduced harm draw in non smokers, turning them into regular users.
- Wide availability in stores and online shops makes vapes easy to get.
- Flavors such as berry and dessert options attract first time users.
- Social media ads promote vaping as a cool, stress free activity.
- Higher disposable income among UAE students fuels impulse buys.
Health Risks Linked to Vaping
While vaping may seem less harmful than smoking, it still poses serious dangers. Doctors warn that nicotine in vapes can lead to addiction, heart issues, and lung problems, especially for young users.
Recent global data from 2025 shows youth who vape face higher chances of breathing troubles, like bronchitis, and even mental health dips. In the Arab region, cases of vape related lung injuries have popped up, echoing worldwide concerns.
One table below sums up common health effects based on recent reports:
| Health Issue | Description | Risk Level for Youth |
|---|---|---|
| Nicotine Addiction | Builds dependence quickly, harder to quit | High |
| Lung Damage | Can cause inflammation and shortness of breath | Medium to High |
| Heart Problems | Raises blood pressure and strain on the heart | Medium |
| Mental Health Impact | Linked to anxiety and mood swings | Medium |
These risks grow with heavy use, and experts stress that no level of vaping is safe for non smokers.
Comparisons with Other Countries
Across Arab states, vaping rates vary. Egypt and Lebanon show around 25 to 34 percent usage in some studies, but the UAE leads. Globally, places like the US report about 12 percent youth vaping in 2025, lower than the UAE’s student figures.
This gap might stem from cultural shifts. In the UAE, rapid urbanization and global influences make Western habits like vaping more common. Meanwhile, stricter rules in some nations curb access.
A 2024 study in Qatar found similar patterns, with one in five students vaping, tied to views of it as a safe alternative. These trends signal a need for region wide action to track and address the spread.
Expert Views and Future Steps
Health professionals urge using vapes only to quit smoking, not as a new habit. Dr. Malik Sallam, a lead researcher, calls the 39.6 percent rate striking and questions if norms are changing too fast.
To curb this, ideas include tighter age checks, flavor bans, and education campaigns. Some suggest raising prices or limiting ads to protect students.
Public health groups push for more studies to watch long term effects. With vaping on the rise, early steps could prevent bigger issues down the line.
What This Means for Students and Parents
This trend affects not just health but also school performance. Nicotine can harm focus and sleep, key for university success.
Parents and educators should talk openly about risks. Schools might add anti vaping programs to build awareness.
As vaping grows, staying informed helps. Share this article with friends or family to spark discussions, and drop a comment below on your thoughts about student vaping trends.
