Dubai Municipality has revealed new guidelines for regulating single‑use products as the emirate prepares to implement the last stage of its single‑use plastic ban in one week.
The civic body confirmed that the final stage of Executive Council Resolution No. (124) of 2023 — introduced by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum — will take effect on 1 January 2026, marking the full rollout of the single‑use products ban in Dubai.
This move aligns with the implementation of Cabinet Resolution No. (380) of 2022, which governs the use of single‑use items across all UAE markets.
According to the municipality, the final phase will prohibit a broad range of single‑use plastic items, such as disposable plastic plates, cutlery (including chopsticks), beverage cups and lids, as well as items already banned in 2025 like polystyrene cups and containers, stirrers, cotton buds, table covers and straws.
To help ensure a seamless transition, Dubai Municipality has published a detailed awareness guide to assist affected entities in identifying and switching to approved alternative materials that meet the resolution’s criteria.
The municipality added that, in collaboration with government partners, it continues to encourage sustainable practices among both individuals and organisations, aiming to embed eco‑friendly consumption habits into everyday life and business operations to bolster quality of life and environmental sustainability.
By working closely with public and private stakeholders, Dubai Municipality is strengthening sustainability culture and promoting responsible behaviours that reduce dependence on plastic, reinforcing Dubai’s role as a global sustainability leader and helping preserve natural resources for future generations.
Resolution No. (124) of 2023 is designed to safeguard biodiversity and wildlife, foster environmentally responsible habits, encourage the use of recycled and reusable materials, and stimulate the market for sustainable alternatives, in line with circular economy principles.
The policy began with a ban on single‑use plastic bags from 1 January 2024, followed by all single‑use bags from 1 June 2024. The third phase, starting 1 January 2025, extended the ban to include products like Styrofoam cups, plastic straws, cotton swabs, table covers, containers and stirrers.
