Neighbours fume over ‘noisy and smoke-filled’ plans for new King Street shisha bar!
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Aberdeen’s hookah lovers have a new reason to get excited — but the proposal is already facing strong local resistance.
A new shisha lounge is being planned at 175 King Street, in the former Rice n’ Spice grocery store near Morrisons. If approved, this would become only the second dedicated shisha bar in Aberdeen, following the popular Urban Shisha Lounge on Great Northern Road.
What’s Being Proposed?
- Seating capacity for up to 32 people
- Hot and cold beverages menu
- Operating hours: 10 AM to 10 PM, all week
- Owner: Shahram Mustafa Hamadi
On paper, it looks like a perfect spot for casual hookah sessions, relaxed evenings, and social gatherings — exactly what the hookah community loves.
Why Are Neighbours So Angry?
Local residents have strongly objected to the plans, calling it a “noisy and smoke-filled” addition to the street. Main concerns include:
- Increased air pollution and shisha smoke drifting into nearby homes
- Noise and disturbance during evening and night hours
- Potential litter and extra traffic
- Questions over compliance with indoor smoking regulations
Some neighbours even referenced a recent fire in a Glasgow vape shop to raise safety concerns. Planning officials and health experts have also flagged issues — noting that the initial drawings lacked clear outdoor seating and proper details on ventilation and smell control.
The applicant has responded by saying windows and rooflights will remain open, achieving 51% ventilation — just above the required threshold.
Current Status
The original application was withdrawn after objections, and a revised version has now been submitted. The final decision rests with the council.
What This Means for Hookah Lovers
For Aberdeen’s growing shisha community, this could be a welcome addition — bringing a new dedicated space to enjoy flavoured hookah in a proper lounge setting. However, the strong pushback shows that winning local support will be crucial.
Many cities across the UK have successfully integrated shisha lounges with good ventilation systems, outdoor areas, and strict adherence to rules. If the new venue addresses these concerns properly, it could become a nice hangout spot.
What do you think? Should Aberdeen get its second shisha bar? Drop your thoughts in the comments.
Would you visit a King Street shisha lounge? Let us know! 🔥
Blog written for hookah enthusiasts by ShopDop.in Date: July 2026
