Tehran, Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA)

Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA) in Tehran, Iran, offers a relatively accommodating policy for smokers, distinguishing itself from many international airports that have moved towards complete smoking bans. Travelers will find that smoking is permitted in several designated areas both before and after passing through security checkpoints, providing convenience for those who wish to smoke during their journey. It's important to note that smoking is strictly confined to these specific zones, and attempting to smoke elsewhere within the terminal buildings could lead to penalties or other issues. Before security, passengers and visitors can utilize designated outdoor smoking areas located outside the main terminals. These areas are easily accessible for anyone arriving at or departing from the airport, or for those simply accompanying travelers. This allows for a final cigarette before entering the secure zone or a quick smoke upon arrival without needing to re-enter the main terminal. Once past security and passport control, IKA continues to provide options for smokers. According to traveler feedback, there are at least four distinct smoking areas available within the secure zone. These include public smoking rooms situated in both the left and right terminal wings. To locate these, after clearing security, travelers should turn around, and these areas are reportedly found adjacent to the entry points of the terminal wings. Additionally, there is a small cafe that doubles as a smoking area, accessible by heading straight from passport control and then turning down to the left. For those with access to the business lounge, a dedicated smoking area is also available within this exclusive space, found by proceeding straight from passport control and then turning down to the right. These indoor smoking facilities are typically enclosed rooms designed to contain smoke, ensuring a comfortable environment for non-smokers in other parts of the airport. While the information regarding these specific locations dates back to 2018, the general policy of allowing smoking in designated areas is common in many airports in the region. Travelers are advised to look for clear signage indicating "Smoking Room" or "Designated Smoking Area" upon arrival. Vaping policies are not explicitly mentioned, so it is generally safest to assume that vaping is treated similarly to traditional smoking and should only be done in the designated smoking areas. Always be respectful of local customs and regulations, and ensure you dispose of cigarette butts properly in provided receptacles.