Activating the second phase to ban import and trade "Consumer plastic products" January 1, 2026

Dubai, December 16 / WAM / The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment announced the activation of the second phase of implementing Ministerial Resolution No. (380) of 2022, which prohibits the import, production or circulation of a new group of “consumer plastic products and single-use bags”, as of January 1, 2026.

This measure comes as a continuation of the environmental legislation system that aims to protect the country’s natural systems and reduce the environmental impact of waste, in line with the UAE’s trends towards enhancing sustainability and quality of life.

The Ministry explained that the ban, which will come into effect early next year, includes a specific list of single-use products, namely soft drink cups and their lids, cutlery (spoons, forks, knives, chopsticks), plates, straws, stirring sticks, and food containers and containers made of Styrofoam (foam).

The decision also includes a comprehensive ban on single-use bags, regardless of the materials they are made of, including paper, if their thickness is less than 50 microns, starting from the same date.

Her Excellency Engineer Alia Abdul Rahim Al Harmoudi, Assistant Undersecretary for the Sustainable Communities Sector at the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, confirmed that the activation of this decision represents a turning point in the country’s journey towards building a more sustainable future. She said: “Regulating the use of single-use products does not only aim to reduce waste, but is part of a comprehensive vision to consolidate the principles of the ‘circular economy’, where resources are transformed into sustainable assets instead of an environmental burden. We in the UAE adopt a balanced approach that takes into account the preservation of the marine and terrestrial environment from the risk of pollution, and at the same time supports business sustainability and growth.”

She added: “We rely on the great awareness of the Emirati community, and the fruitful cooperation that we have witnessed from the private sector, manufacturers, and sales outlets in reconciling their situations and adopting sustainable alternatives. Protecting our environment is a shared responsibility, and every step we take to reduce the consumption of these products is an investment in the health of our society and the beauty of our nature.”

In order to ensure the smooth flow of commercial movement and support the industrial sector, the Ministry noted that there are specific exceptions to this ban, including products intended for export, as the production of prohibited products is permitted if they are intended for export or re-export outside the country, provided that a clear label is placed indicating this, while prohibiting their circulation in the country’s markets.

Bags and products made from recycled materials in the country are also excluded, to encourage the local recycling industry. Exceptions also include medicine bags, garbage bags, rolls of very thin bags used to hold fresh foods such as meat, vegetables, and bread, and large shopping bags designed for fashion, electronic items, and toys.

The Ministry called on establishments, markets and suppliers to fully comply with the provisions of the decision and to contribute effectively to achieving the state’s environmental goals.

It is worth noting that the Ministry, in cooperation and coordination with its strategic partners from the authorities and competent authorities in the country, began gradually implementing this decision by activating the first phase as of January 1, 2024, which stipulated a ban on the import, production, or circulation of single-use plastic shopping bags of all kinds, including biodegradable plastic bags. This step represented a fundamental pillar in the country’s efforts to reduce excessive consumption of single-use plastic, and contributed to paving the way for society and markets to adopt a culture of using sustainable and multi-use alternatives.

• For more: Follow Khaleejion 24 Arabic, Khaleejion 24 English, Khaleejion 24 Live, and for social media follow us on Facebook and Related