Dubai Municipality has unveiled an updated guide providing more detailed information for businesses regarding the city’s prohibition on specific single-use plastic items.
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Executive Council, initiated the prohibition in January to reduce plastic waste and promote more sustainable practices.
Mohammed Alrayees, Head of Waste Strategy and Projects Department, stated, “Dubai Municipality is dedicated to transforming Dubai into a leading and sustainable global city. We have introduced this comprehensive guide to address queries on single-use plastics and eco-friendly alternatives, aligning with our encouragement for all individuals, businesses, and institutions to embrace sustainable approaches.”
The updated awareness guide elaborates on details for enforcing the regulations under the emirate’s #DubaiMoreSustainable campaign, which advocates for sustainability initiatives in line with the UAE’s climate objectives.
It provides guidance for individuals, businesses, and institutions to incorporate eco-conscious habits into their daily activities and is accessible online in bilingual format.
Starting from June 1st, 2024, the charge of 25 fils on single-use plastic bags will be eliminated, coinciding with the prohibition of all bags thinner than 57 micrometers.
From January 1st, 2026, single-use plastic cups, cutlery, and food packaging will no longer be permitted, according to Arabian Business.
Repeat infractions within a year will result in fines doubling, up to a maximum of AED 2,000, although exceptions apply to thicker bags and those utilized for meat, vegetables, or online orders.
Although biodegradable alternatives also pose environmental challenges, reusable bags offer a sustainable long-term solution.
