PCA Launches Its First International Cigar

The Premium Cigar Association (PCA), The Leaf Master Tobacco Trading, and La Palina Cigars announced the launch of Yalla Habeebi, the first-ever PCA international premium cigar. Created to commemorate the second edition of the World Cigar Show in Dubai, the limited-edition release marks a historic milestone for the association while celebrating the continued growth of premium cigar culture throughout the Gulf region. A portion of proceeds from every cigar sold will support PCA’s ongoing mission to advocate for and advance the premium cigar industry.

The collaboration reflects PCA’s growing international engagement and the increasing importance of partnerships that connect premium cigar retailers, manufacturers and consumers across borders. As premium cigar markets continue to expand beyond North America, initiatives like Yalla Habeebi create new opportunities for education, advocacy and commerce while celebrating the shared culture that defines the premium cigar community.

As the first PCA premium cigar created specifically for an international market, Yalla Habeebi also recognizes Dubai’s emergence as one of the world’s premier destinations for premium cigars and luxury hospitality.

Based on the acclaimed La Palina Goldie, Yalla Habeebi features the blend’s signature balance and approachable profile while introducing exclusive artwork and packaging created specifically for the World Cigar Show. Borrowing one of the Middle East’s best-known expressions of friendship and hospitality, the name embodies the warmth, camaraderie and shared passion that unite cigar enthusiasts around the world.

“This is much more than a cigar launch,” said Ra’ed Saqfelhait, managing partner of The Leaf Master. “It is a celebration of friendship, collaboration and the remarkable growth of the premium cigar community in our region. To partner with the Premium Cigar Association and La Palina on PCA’s first international exclusive cigar is a tremendous honor. Together, we are celebrating not only the World Cigar Show, but also the remarkable growth and global future of premium cigars throughout the Gulf.”

“The World Cigar Show has quickly become one of the most important international gatherings for premium cigar enthusiasts, retailers and manufacturers,” said Joshua Habursky, Chief Executive Officer of the Premium Cigar Association. “Launching PCA’s first international cigar alongside industry-leading partners like The Leaf Master and La Palina reflects our commitment to expanding PCA’s global presence while creating meaningful value for members, manufacturers and premium cigar enthusiasts worldwide. This year’s event will also feature an expanded lineup of educational programming, exclusive publications and regional networking opportunities that further strengthen PCA’s international engagement.”

“Produced in limited quantities exclusively for this celebration, the special Goldie Yalla Habeebi limited edition demonstrates what is possible when craftsmanship, innovation and shared purpose come together,” said Clay Roberts, President and CEO of La Palina Cigars. “Yalla Habeebi celebrates not only a remarkable cigar, but the relationships that continue to unite premium cigar enthusiasts around the world.”

Bill Paley, owner of La Palina, added: “La Palina was founded in 1896 by my grandfather, Sam Paley, an immigrant from Ukraine. He was also the father of William S. Paley, the founder of CBS. I am honored and excited to see the brand represented in the GCC by The Leaf Master, in association with the PCA Dubai 2026. My grandfather would be very pleased.”

Yalla Habeebi will make its official debut during the Opening Night Social Event of the World Cigar Show and will be featured throughout the show’s exclusive social experiences taking place from 10–13 November, offering guests the opportunity to enjoy this commemorative cigar in some of Dubai’s most memorable settings.

Available exclusively throughout the Gulf Corporation Council Countries (GCC), a portion of proceeds will support PCA’s ongoing advocacy efforts. Following its debut in Dubai, the cigar will make a special one-time appearance at the PCA 2027 trade show in Las Vegas, giving U.S. retailers an opportunity to experience the association’s first international exclusive release firsthand.