UAE to ban single-use plastics from 2026
On June 5, Her Excellency Dr. Amna Dahak, UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment, said that the UAE will continue to play a pioneering role in efforts to reduce plastic pollution at the domestic and global levels.
She said that this year's World Environment Day focuses on the need for collective action to address the major challenge of plastic pollution, which requires urgent attention and unified efforts. In response to this urgent issue, the UAE is implementing a comprehensive system aimed at the rational and comprehensive management of plastic products.
Dr. Dahak announced that from January 1, 2026, the UAE will ban the import, production and sale of single-use plastic products. She pointed out that this measure is a continuation of the country's progressive approach to banning the use of single-use plastic bags from 2024, and reflects the UAE's determination and commitment to environmental responsibility, aiming to build a waste-free and pollution-free future.
Regarding the UAE's efforts in reducing the risk of plastic pollution globally, Dr. Dahak said that within the framework of global efforts to reduce plastic waste, the Zayed Humanitarian Legacy Foundation's 'Clean Rivers' initiative is addressing plastic pollution in river systems in several countries, cleaning up plastic waste in waterways by empowering communities and promoting the development of innovative solutions.
She pointed out that the National Circular Economy Policy is a major driver of this transformation in the UAE, contributing to improving resource utilization in key sectors such as green infrastructure, transportation, manufacturing, and responsible food production and consumption.
This policy prioritizes the reduction of plastic waste, encourages innovative solutions for packaging and sustainable recycling, and confirms a strong commitment to significantly reduce plastic waste and manage hazardous waste at all levels.
Dr. Dahak appealed to the UAE society, saying that as responsible individuals in society, each of us has the responsibility to make a fundamental contribution to achieving the national vision, which can be achieved by participating in reducing unnecessary plastic use in our daily lives. Achieving this vision requires each of us to participate more effectively in the process of change and move firmly towards building prosperous communities and a vibrant and resilient environment.
She added that we must also protect the integrity of the terrestrial and marine environments, which are an integral part of our lives, to ensure the continuation of our lives and those of future generations.
Dr. Dahak called for a continued focus on protecting ecosystems to ensure the continuation of our lives, guided by this year's World Environment Day theme "Reducing Plastic Pollution", which is a call to action for every member of our society. By working together, we can build a brighter and sustainable future for all.
