Dubai bans single-use plastics: Styrofoam, straws, and more now prohibited

Dubai: As of today, January 1, 2025, Dubai has officially enforced a ban on single-use plastic products. If you are ordering takeaway or food delivery, you may notice some changes as the emirate takes significant steps towards reducing plastic waste, fostering eco-friendly habits, and promoting a culture of reuse and recycling.

What single-use plastic items are banned in Dubai?

Dubai Municipality, the authority overseeing the phase-out of single-use plastics, has outlined the following items now prohibited:

1. Single-use Styrofoam cups

2. Plastic cotton swabs

3. Plastic table covers

4. Plastic straws

5. Styrofoam food containers

6. Plastic stirrers

The existing ban on single-use bags

A ban on all single-use bags has been in place since June 2024, as per a resolution by Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister of Defence, and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai.

Executive Council Resolution No. (124) of 2023

This resolution aims to reduce single-use plastic waste in Dubai significantly. It encourages the private sector to adopt recycled products in line with circular economy practices, ensuring the sustainable recycling of materials in local markets. The resolution also regulates the use and recycling of single-use products and plastics.

Are there alternatives?

Under the resolution, businesses including shops, vendors, and restaurants must actively participate in initiatives that minimise the use of plastic materials. They are also expected to offer reasonably priced reusable alternatives to encourage the shift towards sustainable practices.

How will single-use products be phased out in Dubai?

The phase-out of single-use plastics in Dubai is being implemented in stages:

• January 2024 - A 25-fil tariff was introduced on single-use plastic bags to reduce their usage.

• June 2024 - All single-use plastic bags were banned.

• January 2025 - Ban on single-use plastic items like plastic stirrers, Styrofoam containers and plastic straws.

• January 1, 2026 - The ban will extend to single-use plastic cups and lids, cutlery, food containers, and plates.