What Is Shisha? A Beginner's Guide to Hookah

A hookah has four main parts: a bowl on top holding the flavoured tobacco (the shisha), a metal stem, a water-filled base, and one or more hoses. Hot coals sit above the bowl, gently heating the tobacco. When you draw on the hose, the smoke passes down the stem, bubbles through the water — which cools it — and travels up the hose to you.

The water doesn't filter out much; its job is to cool and smooth the smoke. That cool, mellow draw is a big part of the appeal.

Shisha tobacco comes in dozens of flavours — double apple (the classic), mint, grape, watermelon, blueberry, and countless mixes. Popular brands you'll see on a menu include Al Fakher, Adalya, Starbuzz and Fumari.

Many lounges will mix flavours for you or recommend a house blend. If you're new, ask staff — a good lounge is happy to guide you.

Don't light your own coals — staff manage them. Pass the hose by the base, not the mouthpiece, and set it down rather than handing it directly. Take slow, steady draws; there's no rush. A session typically lasts 45–90 minutes.

Rules vary widely. Many countries allow shisha lounges with indoor-smoking exemptions or outdoor terraces; others restrict or ban them. Always check local rules, and note that shisha, like any tobacco, carries health risks.