King Khalid International Airport (RUH)

King Khalid International Airport (RUH) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, maintains a traveler-friendly policy regarding smoking, offering designated areas both before and after security checkpoints. For those departing or arriving, smoking is strictly confined to specific outdoor zones located outside the terminal buildings. These areas are clearly marked, ensuring that non-smokers are not affected by secondhand smoke while providing convenience for smokers before they enter the secure areas of the airport. It is crucial for travelers to adhere to these regulations to avoid any potential issues, as smoking outside these designated zones is generally prohibited within the airport premises. Once past security, passengers will find several dedicated smoking rooms distributed across various terminals. These enclosed, often well-ventilated facilities are a welcome amenity for many international travelers. In Terminal 1, a smoking room is consistently reported to be available near gates 20 and 21. Recent updates, as late as January 2023, confirm its continued availability, often described as being behind stairs or directly across from Gate 21. Travelers should look for clear signage, which may also point towards the female praying room as a landmark. Terminal 2 also features a large smoking room, specifically noted to be next to Gate 21, providing another convenient option for passengers in that part of the airport. For those utilizing the newer terminals, King Khalid International Airport has continued to provide smoking facilities. Terminal 3, according to a February 2025 update, hosts two smoking rooms located to the right of Gate 307. Similarly, Terminal 5, also with a February 2025 update, offers two smoking rooms: one situated near Gate 508 and another conveniently located behind the Burger King restaurant. These recent updates indicate that the airport is maintaining and even expanding its provisions for smokers, reflecting a commitment to passenger comfort amidst ongoing expansion work mentioned in earlier reports. Travelers are advised to always follow the airport's signage for "Smoking Room" or "غرفة التدخين" to easily locate these facilities. While the airport is undergoing expansion, the availability of these designated smoking areas appears to be a consistent feature across operational terminals. Vaping policy is not explicitly mentioned, so it's generally safer to assume that vaping should also be confined to these designated smoking areas or avoided indoors. Adhering to these guidelines ensures a smooth and compliant travel experience at RUH.