Dubai municipality implements total ban on single use products

Dubai: Dubai Municipality has unveiled a phased approach to ban various types of single-use products, emphasizing the importance of environmental conservation and sustainable practices.

The decision to regulate the use of single-use products follows a resolution by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, aimed at reducing plastic waste and promoting recycling.

Starting from June 1, 2024, Dubai will cease levying charges on single-use plastic bags and enforce a complete prohibition on all such bags. Subsequently, from January 1, 2025, several items including plastic stirrers, Styrofoam food containers and plastic straws will be banned. The ban will extend further on January 1, 2026, encompassing additional items like single-use plastic cups and lids.

Violators of the ban will face fines starting from Dh200, with penalties doubling for repeat offences within a year, capped at Dh2,000.

The initiative aims to encourage sustainable practices among individuals, businesses and institutions, fostering a culture of environmental responsibility and promoting a circular economy.

Mohammed Alrayees, head of Waste Strategy and Projects Department at Dubai Municipality, emphasized the municipality's commitment to transforming Dubai into a sustainable global city. He highlighted the comprehensive guide as a resource for adopting sustainable practices.

The municipality has made the awareness guide available online in both Arabic and English, providing consumers and businesses with essential information and green alternatives to plastics.