Transitioning From Cigarettes to IQOS

Table of contents

1. How IQOS differs from a cigarette
2. What to expect when you switch from cigarettes to IQOS
3. Tips for the first weeks
4. Which IQOS device and sticks to start with
5. FAQ

Many adult smokers in the UAE ask what transitioning from cigarettes to IQOS is really like. This guide covers how IQOS differs from a cigarette, what to expect in the first weeks, which device and sticks to start with, and what IQOS does not do. It is general information, not medical advice.

How IQOS differs from a cigarette

IQOS is a heated tobacco system made by Philip Morris International. A cigarette burns tobacco. IQOS heats a tobacco stick in a controlled way and does not burn it, so there is no flame, ash or smoke. You inhale a nicotine-containing aerosol instead. It is not a vape or e-cigarette: it uses real tobacco, not liquid.

IQOS still contains nicotine, which is addictive, and it is not risk free. Long-term effects of heated tobacco are still being studied. If your goal is your health, the best choice is to stop using tobacco and nicotine completely.

What to expect when you switch from cigarettes to IQOS

• The taste is different. Heated tobacco tastes less sharp than burnt tobacco. Many people need a week or two to get used to it.
• The puff is different. Slow, steady puffs work better than the short hard pulls of a cigarette.
• Sessions have a limit. On ILUMA a session lasts about 6 minutes or 14 puffs. You cannot stop halfway and relight it later.
• No smell of smoke. There is still a smell, but it is milder and does not cling the same way.
• Dual use is common. Some people keep smoking some cigarettes alongside IQOS at first. Using both means you still burn tobacco.

Tips for the first weeks

1. Keep the device charged and carry enough sticks, so you are not tempted to buy a pack of cigarettes.
2. Try a few flavours. If you liked strong cigarettes, start with a fuller tobacco blend. If you smoked menthol, try a menthol stick.
3. Give each flavour several sessions before you judge it.
4. Learn the basics in our step-by-step IQOS guide.

Which IQOS device and sticks to start with

Most new users today start with an IQOS ILUMA device. ILUMA uses induction heating, has no blade to clean and works only with TEREA sticks. The ILUMA i range starts from AED 149 for ILUMA i One. Older blade devices such as IQOS 3 DUO use HEETS instead.

TEREA cartons hold 10 packs of 20 sticks (200 sticks). Prices depend on the edition, from AED 120 for TEREA Indonesia. Our TEREA flavour guide helps you compare tastes.

FAQ

Is IQOS safer than smoking?

We cannot make health claims. IQOS does not burn tobacco, but it contains nicotine and is not risk free. Speak to a doctor if you want advice on quitting.

How many cigarettes is one IQOS stick?

There is no exact match. Most people use roughly one stick where they would have smoked one cigarette, but it varies from person to person.

Can I buy IQOS in Abu Dhabi?

Yes. Order on our website or on WhatsApp +971 50 242 0254. We deliver to all seven emirates, with same-day delivery in Abu Dhabi for orders confirmed during working hours. Delivery is free on orders of AED 200 or more. You pay cash or card on delivery, or by bank transfer. Adults 18+ only.