Fine up to AED 2,000 for Violating Single-Use Plastic Ban

Dubai has announced a ban on single-use plastic starting January 1st, 2024, with a maximum fine of Dh2,000 for violations.

This follows the federal government's announcement in January 2023 of a pan-UAE ban on single-use plastic from 2024. The initiative aims to protect the environment, reduce plastic consumption, and regulate its use at the federal level.

The government introduced a tariff of 25 fils (Dh0.25) on consumers using single-use plastic bags to promote eco-friendly alternatives.

Dubai implemented the tariff on July 1st, and Sharjah introduced it on October 1st, 2022. Umm Al Quwain and Ajman banned single-use plastics from January 1, 2023, and Ras Al Khaimah from January 1, 2024.

In Abu Dhabi, a blanket ban on single-use plastic was enforced on June 1, 2022, along with a ban on Styrofoam products starting January 1, 2024.

The ban covers both mainland and free zones in Dubai, including the Dubai International Financial Centre. Exemptions include thin bags for specific purposes, rolls for packing certain products, and items intended for export or re-export. The ban extends to plastic and non-plastic single-use products, food delivery packaging, plastic containers, and various plastic-based packaging materials.

Violations can result in a fine of Dh200, doubling for repeated offenses within a year, with a maximum penalty of Dh2,000.