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Is Al Fakher a Shisha or a Vape Brand? (2026 Dubai Guide)
If you’re in Dubai or anywhere in the UAE and wondering whether Al Fakher is a shisha brand or a vape brand, the short answer is: both.
Al Fakher began as one of the world’s most recognized shisha tobacco brands, but today it has successfully expanded into the disposable vape market, particularly with its popular Crown Bar series.
In this 2026 Dubai guide, we break down Al Fakher’s history, its vape evolution, legal status in the UAE, and how to choose the right product for your lifestyle.
What Is Al Fakher?
Founded in 1999 in the UAE, Al Fakher quickly became a global leader in premium shisha tobacco. The brand built its reputation on:
- High-quality tobacco blends
- Consistent moisture levels
- Rich, long-lasting flavors
- Smooth smoke performance
Today, Al Fakher products are distributed in over 100 countries and are staples in hookah lounges from Dubai to London to Los Angeles.
For many users, Al Fakher is more than just tobacco — it’s a social ritual rooted in tradition.
Al Fakher as a Global Shisha Icon
Al Fakher’s legacy was built on classic hookah flavors that remain bestsellers in 2026:
- Double Apple – The traditional favorite with bold anise notes
- Grape Mint – Sweet grape balanced with cool freshness
- Lemon Mint – Crisp citrus layered with smooth mint
- Mint – Clean and refreshing
- Watermelon – Sweet and aromatic
Shisha sessions are typically:
- Longer and social
- Best suited for home or lounge settings
- Designed for slow, flavorful smoke
In Dubai, rooftop lounges in Dubai Marina and gatherings in Jumeirah still feature Al Fakher as a top choice.
Does Al Fakher Make Vapes?
Yes. In response to the growing demand for convenient nicotine alternatives, Al Fakher expanded into the vape market with its Crown Bar disposable vape line.
This move allowed the brand to bring its signature flavors into a modern, portable format.
Popular Crown Bar Models in 2026
The most common variants available in Dubai include:
- Crown Bar 8000 Puffs – Compact and reliable
- Crown Bar 12000 Puffs – Balanced performance and longevity
- Crown Bar Hypermax 15000 Puffs – Advanced airflow with rechargeable battery
Most higher-puff models are:
- Type-C rechargeable
- Equipped with mesh coil technology
- Pre-filled with nicotine salt e-liquid
- Draw-activated (no buttons required)
These devices are designed for:
- Travel
- Work breaks
- Discreet use
- On-the-go convenience
No charcoal. No foil. No setup.
Shisha vs. Al Fakher Crown Bar Vapes (2026 Comparison)
| Feature | Traditional Al Fakher Shisha | Crown Bar Disposable Vape |
| Setup | Requires hookah, charcoal, bowl | Ready to use out of box |
| Maintenance | Cleaning & heat management needed | Minimal (recharge if applicable) |
| Flavor | Authentic tobacco smoke | Shisha-inspired vape flavors |
| Nicotine Type | Tobacco leaf smoke | Nicotine salt e-liquid |
| Best For | Social gatherings, lounges | Portability & convenience |
Dubai Buyer Tip (2026)
If you love flavors like Double Apple or Grape Mint in shisha, try the same flavor profile in a Crown Bar vape for a similar taste in a portable format.
Why Did Al Fakher Expand Into Vapes?
Not every traditional brand successfully transitions into modern vaping. Al Fakher did — and strategically.
1. Changing Consumer Habits
Many nicotine users now prefer:
- Convenience
- Discreet usage
- Smoke-free environments
Disposable vapes meet these needs.
2. Flavor Consistency
Al Fakher maintained its signature flavor identity across both categories. Whether smoking shisha or vaping Crown Bar, the taste remains bold and recognizable.
3. UAE Market Leadership
Being founded in the Emirates gave Al Fakher strong regional trust. Expanding into vaping allowed them to maintain dominance in a changing market.
Is It Legal to Buy Al Fakher Vapes in Dubai in 2026?
Yes — vaping is legal in the UAE, provided products comply with UAE.S 5030:2018 regulations.
Key legal points:
- Products must meet UAE technical standards
- Sales to individuals under 18 (or 21 depending on retailer policy) are prohibited
- Public vaping is restricted in certain enclosed areas
- Products must carry proper health warnings
Always purchase from licensed retailers to ensure authenticity and compliance.
How to Choose the Right Crown Bar in UAE (2026 Guide)
When selecting an Al Fakher vape, consider:
1. Puff Count
- 8000 puffs: Compact and lighter
- 12000 puffs: Mid-range balance
- 15000 puffs: Maximum longevity
Higher puff counts mean larger battery and device size.
2. Rechargeability
Most 12K and 15K models include USB Type-C charging.
3. Flavor Selection
Popular vape flavors in 2026 include:
- Mint
- Mango Ice
- Grape
- Blueberry
- Double Apple
Choose a flavor similar to your favorite shisha blend if transitioning.
Frequently Asked Questions (2026)
Is Al Fakher only a shisha brand?
No. While historically known for shisha, Al Fakher now also produces disposable vape devices under the Crown Bar line.
Are Al Fakher vapes legal in Dubai?
Yes, if they comply with UAE regulations and are purchased from licensed sellers.
What is the difference between shisha and Crown Bar vapes?
Shisha involves tobacco combustion using charcoal. Crown Bar vapes use nicotine salt e-liquid and require no setup.
What are the best Al Fakher flavors?
For shisha: Double Apple, Lemon Mint, Grape Mint.
For vapes: Mint, Mango Ice, Grape.
Are Al Fakher products authentic in UAE?
When purchased from authorized retailers, yes. Always check packaging, warnings, and compliance labeling.
Final Verdict (2026 Update)
So, is Al Fakher a shisha brand or a vape brand?
It’s both.
Al Fakher remains one of the most iconic shisha brands in the world while successfully expanding into modern disposable vapes through the Crown Bar series.
If you prefer:
- Traditional, social smoking sessions → Choose Al Fakher shisha
- Portable, convenient nicotine use → Choose Crown Bar vapes
Either way, you’re choosing a brand with UAE heritage and global credibility.