OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg is Africa’s busiest airport and the main hub for travel across the continent. The airport offers several smoking options including premium lounges, bars with smoking areas, and dedicated smoking zones. This guide covers all smoking areas at JNB.

Smoking Areas at OR Tambo Airport

Smoking at OR Tambo is allowed in premium lounges, some bars, and designated airside areas. Note that no one under 18 may enter a designated smoking area.

Terminal A (International)

  • Dunhill Smoking Lounge – A 360sqm premium space with full food and beverage service on the mezzanine level

  • Lounge 27 – Private smoking lounge on the upper floor. Follow signs to D Lounge, take the escalators. Purchase required for entry.

  • Airside smoking area – Note: This area closes at 8 p.m.

Terminal B (Domestic)

  • SAA Lounge – Smoking area inside (as of May 2025). Take the elevator on the left just after security.

  • Airport Craft Brewers Restaurant – Smoking area inside, across from Gate D4. Purchase required.

  • Pizza shop – Has a smoking area inside near the restaurant

Restaurants and Bars with Smoking

Several restaurants at OR Tambo offer dedicated smoking areas, but you must purchase food or beverages to smoke there. These include:

  • Airport Craft Brewers (across from Gate D4)

  • Various bars and restaurants with designated sections

Tips for Smokers at OR Tambo

  • Terminal A closes early – The airside smoking area in Terminal A closes at 8 p.m.

  • Lounges are best – The Dunhill Smoking Lounge offers the most comfortable experience with full service

  • Purchase required – Most restaurant and bar smoking areas require you to buy something

  • Age restriction – No one under 18 may enter smoking areas

  • Check current regulations – South African smoking laws can change; verify with airport staff

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I smoke inside Johannesburg OR Tambo Airport?

Yes, OR Tambo has several smoking options including the Dunhill Smoking Lounge (360sqm with full service), Lounge 27, the SAA Lounge, and various restaurants with smoking sections. Most require a purchase or lounge access.

Where is the Dunhill Smoking Lounge at OR Tambo?

The Dunhill Smoking Lounge is located on the mezzanine level in Terminal A (International). It is a 360sqm premium space offering full food and beverage service.

Is there a smoking area in the domestic terminal at OR Tambo?

Yes, Terminal B (Domestic) has smoking areas in the SAA Lounge (elevator on the left after security), Airport Craft Brewers Restaurant (across from Gate D4), and in the pizza shop area. Most require a purchase.

Does the airside smoking area at OR Tambo close?

Yes, the airside smoking area in Terminal A closes at 8 p.m. For late flights, use the Dunhill Smoking Lounge or restaurant smoking areas instead.

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