Dubai to ban single-use bags from June 1

Dubai Municipality has published additional guidance on regulating the use of single-use products, including the single-use plastics ban policy that was issued in January.

The authority has also revealed the different phases in which the policy will be rolled out:

• From June 1, 2024, Dubai will impose a complete ban on single-use bags (including paper, biodegradable and recycled plastic) and will stop levying the 25 fils fee for buying a bag at the retail counter.
• From January 1, 2025, plastic stirrers, styrofoam food containers, plastic table covers, plastic cotton swabs, plastic straws and single-use styrofoam cups will be banned.
• From January 1, 2026, a ban will imposed on single-use plastic cups and lids, single-use plastic cutlery, plastic food containers and plastic plates.

The bags that are exempted from the policy include:

• Bread bags
• Trash bin liners
• Wrapping bags for vegetables, meats, fish and chicken
• Bags thicker than 57 micrometres
• Laundry bags
• Electronic device bags
• Various garbage bags
• Grain bags

Fines will be imposed on businesses for non-compliance with the policy of regulating the use of single-use products in Dubai, as follows:

• A financial penalty of AED 200.
• In case of a repeat offence within one year from the date of the previous offence, the penalty amount doubles (not exceeding AED 2,000).

Dubai's resolution on regulating the use of single-use products is aimed at protecting the environment by minimising plastic waste, changing consumer habits and fostering a culture of recycling.

The municipality has issued an awareness guide with more information and FAQs to help people and businesses adhere to the rules.

It answers important questions that consumers and businesses may have and also highlights green alternatives to plastics along with tips on how to be more sustainable.

The latest awareness guide can be accessed here.