Expanded ban on single-use plastic products to begin in January

The UAE will begin 2026 with a major push to cut plastic waste and reduce pollution under a nationwide ban on various single-use plastic products.

From January 1, the country will prohibit the import, manufacture and trade of an expanded range of single-use plastics, including beverage cups and lids; cutlery, such as spoons, forks, knives and chopsticks; plates; straws; stirrers; and food containers and boxes made from Styrofoam.

The ban was announced previously and the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment on Tuesday sent a reminder urging all establishments, markets and suppliers to comply with the laws.

“Regulating the use of single-use products is not only intended to reduce waste but it is part of a comprehensive vision to advance the principles of the circular economy, in which resources are transformed into sustainable assets rather than environmental burdens," said Alya Al Harmoodi, assistant undersecretary for the sustainable communities sector at the ministry.

"In the UAE, we adopt a balanced approach that prioritises the protection of marine and terrestrial environments from pollution risks, while simultaneously fostering business sustainability and growth.”

Ms Al Harmoodi said the authorities had confidence in "the robust environmental awareness of the Emirati community and in the constructive co-operation demonstrated by the private sector, manufacturers and retailers in adopting sustainable practices and embracing environment-friendly alternatives".

"Protecting our environment is a shared responsibility, and every step taken to reduce the consumption of these products is an investment in the well-being of our society and the preservation of our natural landscapes," she added.

The decision also establishes a comprehensive ban on single-use bags, regardless of their constituent material, if their thickness is less than 50 microns (a micron is one millionth of a metre). This will take effect on the same date.

Plastic waste: a growing problem in the UAE and worldwide

The impact of plastic pollution has been increasingly visible in the UAE. In July, the amount of discarded plastic found in dead seabirds was described as “very alarming”.

Dubai officials said in 2022 that nine out of 10 turtles and five out of 10 camels found dead had plastic in their stomachs.

A UAE study also showed that hundreds of camels have died since 2008 after consuming plastic waste.

Globally, the problem is even more stark.