UAE to Ban More Single-Use Plastics From January 1st 2026

The United Arab Emirates will prohibit the import, manufacture and trade of a wider range of single-use plastic products from January 1st, 2026. The second phase of Ministerial Decision No. 380 of 2022 expands the national restrictions to additional consumer items and bags, the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment announced. Covered items include beverage cups and lids; cutlery such as spoons, forks, knives and chopsticks; plates; straws; stirrers; and food containers and boxes made of Styrofoam. A comprehensive ban on single-use bags will take effect on the same date for bags under 50 microns in thickness, regardless of the constituent material, including paper. The ministry said the decision includes specific exceptions. Products manufactured for export may continue to be produced provided they are clearly labelled for export or re-export and are not circulated within the domestic market. Bags and products made from recycled materials within the UAE are exempt to support local recycling activity. Additional exemptions include medicine bags, refuse bags, very thin plastic bags used to wrap fresh food items such as meat, vegetables and bread, and large shopping bags intended for clothing, electronics and toys. The ministry urged establishments, markets and suppliers to fully comply with the provisions of the decision. The first phase of the policy began on January 1st, 2024, prohibiting the import, manufacture and trade of all types of single-use plastic shopping bags, including biodegradable plastic bags.