In a bid to tackle environmental concerns, Dubai is set to implement a ban on single-use bags, encompassing both plastic and paper variants, starting June 1. The move follows the earlier imposition of a 25-fil charge on single-use plastic bags at the beginning of this year. As of the announced date, all retail outlets across the emirate will be prohibited from providing single-use bags, without the obligation to offer free alternatives.
The policy targets bags intended for carrying goods, promoting the use of reusable carriers among shoppers. However, an awareness guide released by the Dubai Municipality clarifies that biodegradable bags are also included in the ban. The municipality underscores that biodegradable bags, if not properly disposed of, can contribute to environmental pollution by breaking down into microplastics.
Certain exemptions to the ban have been outlined, including bags for bread, online product packaging, trash bin liners, and packaging for various goods such as vegetables, meats, and electronics. Additionally, specific penalties are in place for non-compliance with the policy, with fines starting at Dh200 and doubling for repeated offences, up to a maximum of Dh2,000. Shoppers are encouraged to report non-compliant stores to the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism.
To facilitate understanding and compliance, the Dubai Municipality has released an online guide in Arabic and English, addressing common queries and providing insights into sustainable alternatives to single-use plastics. Mohammed Alrayees, head of Waste Strategy and Projects Department at Dubai Municipality, emphasized the guide’s role in supporting individuals, businesses, and institutions in adopting sustainable practices.