Cigars in the UAE

[Kbb]

I have read that some of FOH go through UAE airports and find some good sticks at duty free.  Not sure if anyone goes anywhere else in the area, but I saw this article referenced on halfwheel.

http://gulfnews.com/business/economy/100-tax-on-tobacco-and-energy-drinks-soon-in-uae-1.2031994

Appears UAE countries expect to have a 100% tax on tobacco by 2018 (and 50% on carbonated beverages).  No idea if that would impact duty-free if the tax is applied at the distributor level on cigars.  Just a heads up for those traveling to the UAE who may be on the fence about a purchase in 2017.

 

[semifan1]

Don't think it will effect the duty free. I just checked my receipts from the other day and I didn't see a VAT tax on there, but it could already be included in the price. Now if you hit up the LCDH down by the beach or in the towers I can see that tax being added on.

[BrightonCorgi]

Was in Abu Dhabi last summer and there weren't a lot of cigars shops around town.  Prices weren't anything to write home about either.  Was staying at the Ritz and they actually had a better selection in their bar than many of shops did.  Dubai duty free is really good; they'll open the boxes too.

[rhcolbert]

Headed to Qatar next month, curious the situation. 

On base the qataris wanted to collect their tax on tobacco products (cigs and dip), so we responded by ceasing selling tobacco products at al udied AB.

stupid pissing contest and the troops lose.  I don't partake in cigs or dip, but just a shame the soil dere headed to worse spots can't stick up on the layover there.