Dubai has joined other emirates in the UAE by enforcing a ban on single-use plastics effective from January 1, 2024. The government has set a strict penalty, with fines reaching up to AED2,000 for repeat offenders.
This decision aligns with the federal government’s announcement in January 2023 regarding the nationwide prohibition of single-use plastics. The ban targets reducing environmental pollution and curbing plastic consumption at a federal level.
In anticipation of this ban, a tariff of 25 fils (Dh0.25) was introduced on single-use plastic bags to promote eco-friendly alternatives. This measure had been adopted in various emirates, including Dubai and Sharjah, throughout 2022 and 2023.
Dubai’s legislation is comprehensive, encompassing a wide range of single-use products beyond just plastic bags. This includes disposable items and packaging materials made of both plastic and non-plastic substances. The law applies across all zones in Dubai, including private and free zones.
Violators of the ban face an initial fine of Dh200, which doubles upon each recurrence within a year, capping at Dh2,000. The law allows for grievances to be filed within ten working days from the notification date.
Exceptions to the ban include thin bag rolls for food items, export products, and bags made from recycled materials. Starting from January 1, 2025, the ban will extend to various other plastic products like stirrers, food containers, and straws, with further expansions scheduled for 2026.