What Is IQOS & How Does It Work? A Beginner’s Guide for Smokers in UAE

Introduction

Smoking is prevalent in the UAE, and there is a good proportion of adult population uses regular cigarettes every day. But in recent years awareness has increased regarding the toxic compounds that are created when a cigarette is burned — stimulating interest for reduced-risk or smoke-free alternatives.

Of these options, IQOS has gradually gained popularity in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and other Emirates. For a lot of smokers, IQOS is a compromise: real tobacco taste and nicotine delivery but with heating instead of burning, so the device generates fewer harmful emissions and leaves behind less ash and lingering smoke smell.

This ultimate guide tells you about IQOS in detail — what it is, how it works, how it’s different from cigs and vapes, its status in the UAE, a cost analysis, potential health implications and a how-to for those who want to switch. If you’re a smoker of legal age in the UAE interested in alternatives, we’ve written this guide to help you decide.

What Is IQOS?

IQOS Defined:

IQOS — short for “I Quit Ordinary Smoking” is a heat-not-burn tobacco device developed by Philip Morris International (PMI). Other than that, IQOS works differently from normal cigarettes since it heats up tobacco sticks specially made for the device, called HEETS (or TEREA for the new ILUMA). The result is an aerosol carrying nicotine and tobacco flavor — but no combustion, ash, or smoke.

How It’s Different:

• Uses real tobacco, not e-liquid.
  
• Heats, rather than burns, tobacco.
  
• Lowers exposure to some harmful chemicals that are released from smoke.
  
• Leaves vegetative smell on hands, breath and clothes.
  

Best IQOS Devices to Buy in The UAE:

UAE consumers have a choice between various models to suit their needs:

• IQOS ILUMA: the latest generation with a no cleaning blade, induction heating, less mess, auto start and sleek design.
  
• IQOS 3 DUO: Compact, intuitive design allows for two consecutive uses without recharging.
  
• IQOS Originals DUO: More affordable price but still offering all the important core heat-not-burn experience.
  

How Does IQOS Work?

The Technology Behind IQOS:

At the core of IQOS technology is HeatControl™ Technology. This patented technology heats the tobacco stick to around 350°C, enough to release a nicotine vapour, and generate flavour, but far below the 800°C which a cigarette burns at.

Because it heats rather than burns tobacco, IQOS does produce far fewer harmful chemicals than igniting tobacco. It still gives you a hit of nicotine, the addictive element, but does away with ash, is less smelly, and doesn’t create smoke.

Key Parts of an IQOS Device:

A standard IQOS system includes:

• Holder: The small device that heats the stick the tobacco is in.
  
• Pocket Charger: A case to be carried around, charges the Holder several times a day.
  
• HEETS or TEREA Tobacco Sticks: Manufactured tobacco sticks designed to be suitable for specific device.
  

How to Use IQOS – A Step by Step Guide:

1. Power up the Pocket Charger and Holder.
   
2. Push a HEETS or TEREA stick into the Holder until it stops.
   
3. Press the power button. The LED will flash when heating.
   
4. Take slow puffs once the light becomes solid.
   
5. The session lasts around 6 minutes or 14 hits.
   
6. After use, discard the stick.
   
7. Reinsert the Holder in the Pocket Charger.
   

Top 10 IQOS Troubleshooting Tips: Fix Charging Issues, Red Lights, and More

IQOS vs Traditional Cigarettes

Combustion vs Heating:

Conventional cigarettes burn tobacco at high temperatures, generating smoke that is rich in thousands of chemicals (many of which are toxic and/or carcinogenic). Instead, IQOS heats the tobacco, resulting in no combustion, no ash and typically lower levels of some toxicants.

Ash and Odor:

For the UAE market, cleanliness is a key selling-point: there’s no ash to flick away and less stench afterwards sticking to clothes, fingers, or breath. That’s particularly appealing to smokers who seek a more discreet vibe in shared spaces, whether at home, cafes or offices.

Taste and Experience:

Vapes have flavored e-liquids, but IQOS contains real tobacco, with a taste and mouthfeel that many smokers find closer to conventional smoking. The throat hit is usually less intense, and the vapor is less thick than smoke.

IQOS vs Vaping

How They’re Different:

• IQOS: Real tobacco sticks, not e-liquids and not coils.
  
• Vapes: Inhale nicotine-laced liquids flavored in thousands of ways, heated by a coil.
  

Nicotine Delivery:

Both do deliver nicotine, but in different ways. For some smokers in the UAE, the actual taste of tobacco in an IQOS hits home far more than fruity or sweet vape flavors.

Who Prefers IQOS Over Vapes?

• Smokers who don’t like the artificial taste of vape juice.
  
• Users who prefer the ritual of sliding in a stick.
  
• Adults who are seeking less vapor cloud and a more traditional cigarette feel.
  

Is IQOS Legal in the UAE?

Current Regulations:

Yes – IQOS devices and HEETS are legal in the UAE. They are subject to the country’s rigorous tobacco control laws on sale and advertising. You have to be 18 or older to purchase them and use them.

Where Can You Buy Legit IQOS in Dubai?

To ensure quality and safety:

• Shop at the official IQOS stores in Dubai or Abu Dhabi or at leading shopping malls.
  
• Only buy HEETS or Iluma from authorized Online retailers Like Terea Dubai — you could end up harming yourself, either through counterfeit products or nonstandard HEETS that could harm your device or yourself.
  

Impact on Health: What Does the Science Say?

What PMI Claims:

Philip Morris International says IQOS reduces the amount of harmful chemicals a user is exposed to by up to 95 percent compared to traditional burning cigarettes. But that doesn’t mean it’s risk-free.

Independent Research:

The World Health Organization and UAE health authorities warn that while exposure is lowered, IQOS still contains nicotine, which is addictive. Independent studies over the long term are in the works, and there is no worldwide scientific consensus of exactly how much it reduces the risk.

Local Health Authority Perspective:

At other end, the UAE’s Ministry of Health and Prevention authorizes the lawful sale of heat-not-burn products but does expect all smokers to stop using all tobacco and nicotine products.

Cost Comparison: IQOS vs Cigarettes vs Vapes in UAE

Notes:

• You pay for IQOS’s device in full right off the bat — unlike cigarettes which only require pack purchases.
  
• The cost varies widely according to daily consumption habits.
  
• It is recommended to use genuine products from official UAE stores to reduce the chance of counterfeit products.
  
• Vape prices vary based on device type and usage habits.
  

Why Does IQOS Light Red? Find Out the Top Reasons

Environmental Impact

Ash and Litter:

Cigarette butts remain a major litter problem in the UAE. IQOS produces no ash and cuts down on butt waste.

Reusable Devices:

IQOS devices are rechargeable and reusable. HEETS sticks generate waste, but newer models like ILUMA are designed to reduce cleaning waste.

Recycling Programs:

Some official IQOS stores in Dubai and Abu Dhabi offer recycling for used devices depending on location.

How to Identify Fake IQOS, HEETS, and Accessories

Identifying Genuine Products:

• Look for a security hologram or QR code on the packaging.
  
• Check that the model number matches the device registration.
  
• Purchase only in official stores or authorized sales outlets.
  

Why It Matters:

Fake HEETS may contain poor-quality tobacco and can cause device failure. Fake chargers may be electrical hazards.

Common Troubleshooting & Maintenance Tips

Frequent Issues:

• No vapor (weak): Usually caused by a dirty heating blade.
  
• Device won’t charge: Check charger contacts and use original cables.
  
• Weird taste: Clean the device regularly.
  

Basic Cleaning Tips:

• Use the official cleaning tool or sticks.
  
• Clean gently to avoid breaking the blade.
  
• Clean once a week or after every 20 sticks.
  

When to Replace Parts:

Watch the Holder’s cap and blade; heavy residue or damage may require replacement.

A Guide: How to Make the Transition from Smoking to IQOS in Five Simple Steps

Tips for Transitioning:

• Substitute a few cigarettes daily with IQOS initially.
  
• Try different HEETS flavors to find your preference.
  
• Be patient — adjustment may take days to weeks.
  

Managing Cravings:

• Some mix IQOS use with nicotine gum early on.
  
• Others gradually reduce cigarette use.
  

Support:

If you want to quit nicotine, consult a healthcare professional or UAE-approved quit smoking helplines.

Benefits Claimed from Switching to IQOS

• Cleaner Experience: No ash, less smell, no lighters needed.
  
• Reduced Exposure: Possibly fewer harmful chemicals than cigarettes, but not harmless.
  
• Discretion: Easier use in some social settings, but always check local smoking bans.
  

IQOS ILUMA i vs ILUMA Kit: Which One Fits Your Lifestyle Best?

Things to Consider Before Switching

• IQOS still delivers addictive nicotine.
  
• Devices need charging and regular cleaning.
  
• Budget for device purchase and ongoing HEETS expenses.
  

Advice for First-Time IQOS Users in the UAE

• Visit an authorized IQOS store or Online Shop Like Terea Dubai for a demonstration.
  
• Try popular HEETS flavors such as Amber, Yellow, and Turquoise.
  
• Register your product to claim warranty benefits.
  

Conclusion

IQOS is likely to be an effective alternative for UAE smokers who want real tobacco but a cleaner experience than cigarettes. It is not risk-free and contains nicotine, but for those unable to quit entirely, it offers a less invasive option. Always buy original products, follow UAE laws, and remember: quitting smoking altogether remains the healthiest choice.

If you want help comparing models or finding reputable UAE retailers, just ask — being informed is always worthwhile.

Common FAQs

Is IQOS safer than smoking?

IQOS is intended to reduce exposure to certain harmful chemicals compared to combustible cigarettes, although not all risks are eliminated. It still delivers nicotine, which is addictive and harmful.

Can I travel with IQOS?

Yes — you can carry your IQOS device and HEETS in and out of the UAE. Check your destination’s rules since some countries prohibit heated tobacco sticks. Always pack them in carry-on luggage.

Are IQOS a good way to quit smoking?

IQOS is not sold as a quit-smoking device. It’s an alternative for adult smokers who want to continue smoking. Consult a healthcare provider if you want to quit nicotine.

Where to buy HEETS in the UAE?

Buy only from official IQOS stores, the UAE IQOS website, or licensed retailers. Avoid street vendors or suspicious online offers to prevent counterfeit products.

Is it allowed to use IQOS indoors in the UAE?

Regulations vary. Some Emirates treat heated tobacco like cigarettes and restrict indoor use. Always observe local smoking laws and respect smoke-free areas.

Are there various HEETS flavors?

Yes. Popular UAE flavors include Amber, Yellow, Bronze, Turquoise, and Sienna. Each offers a different tobacco strength and flavor profile.

How long does the IQOS session take?

One HEETS stick lasts about 6 minutes or up to 14 puffs, roughly equal to smoking one cigarette.

Is IQOS available in all Emirates?

Yes. IQOS is legal for adults 18+ in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, and other Emirates.

Can I reuse HEETS sticks?

No. Each stick is single-use only. Reheating used sticks can damage the device.

How to keep my IQOS device clean?

Use the official cleaning tool and sticks. For non-ILUMA devices, gently clean the heating blade. ILUMA devices require less cleaning but benefit from occasional wipes.

What if my device stops working?

Contact the official UAE IQOS support or visit a store. You may be eligible for a replacement if under warranty.

What is the minimum age to buy IQOS?

You must be at least 18 years old to buy or use IQOS or HEETS in the UAE. Selling to minors is illegal.