Dubai shoppers, take note: starting June 1, the ban on single-use plastic bags will expand to include all single-use bags, regardless of material. This move is part of a broader initiative to eliminate single-use products as Dubai aims to become more environmentally friendly.

The initial ban on single-use plastic bags, which began on January 1, included some exceptions. However, from June, the ban will cover all single-use bags made from plastic, paper, or biodegradable materials if they are thinner than 57 micrometres. Exceptions include bags that are 58 micrometres thick or more, as well as bags used for wrapping meat, fish, chicken, bread, and garbage.

This policy is part of a phased plan. By January 1, 2025, single-use plastic items like stirrers, table covers, cups, styrofoam food containers, plastic straws, and cotton swabs will be banned city-wide. The following year, starting January 1, 2026, the ban will extend to plastic plates, food containers, tableware, and cups.

Non-compliance with these regulations will result in a fine of Dhs200. Repeated violations within a year will see the penalty double, up to a maximum fee of Dhs2,000.

In Abu Dhabi, a similar ban has been in effect since June 2022, successfully reducing single-use plastic by approximately 95% in its first year, according to the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi.