Products exempt from the ban include those to be exported from the country. Credit: SmLyubov via Shutterstock.

Dubai has imposed a ban on plastic bags from 1 January 2024 as part of the Executive Council Resolution No. (124) of 2023 on single-use products. 

Issued by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the resolution aims to promote sustainable recycling practices and reduce the environmental impact of the country.

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The ban applies to a wide range of single-use disposable products such as food delivery packaging, thick plastic bags, and various plastic containers made of any material composition.

The resolution extends to all sellers and consumers located within Dubai and in private and free zones. It is set to be implemented in stages over the next few years.

Certain products are exempt from the ban, including waste bags and thin film rolls used for packaging meat, vegetables, and other foods.

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Exemptions further include products for export outside the country. 

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Violations of the resolution will result in a fine of Dh200 ($54.46), with penalties doubling for repeat offences within a year, up to a maximum of Dh2,000.

The government’s Dubai Municipality body, in collaboration with relevant entities, is tasked with organising awareness campaigns for citizens and encouraging them to minimise their use of plastic materials and single-use products. 

Dubai Municipality has also introduced a social initiative to boost recycling and minimise the impact of waste materials on the environment.