Dubai’s Plastic Bag Ban: Understanding the Changes

In June, Dubai implemented a significant ban on single-use plastic bags across the city, raising questions about the persistent availability of plastic bags at checkout counters. This initiative, announced at the start of 2023, aligns with Dubai’s broader commitment to enhancing sustainability in daily life.

Initially, a fee of 25 fils was charged for those opting for a single-use bag from July 2022 until the ban took effect in June 2024. However, this fee was eliminated once the use of single-use bags was fully prohibited.

Why Are Plastic Bags Still Offered in Dubai Stores?

The reason we continue to see plastic bags at the checkout lies in the specifics of the ban. The legislation targets single-use bags that are thinner than 57 micrometers, encompassing those made from paper and biodegradable materials as well. This means that the bags currently being distributed at stores are indeed thicker than the 57 micrometers specified in the regulations.

The intent behind this regulation is to encourage the use of more durable bags that can withstand multiple shopping trips, thereby reducing the likelihood of them being discarded after a single use and ending up in landfills.

In addition to fostering a greener environment, retailers across Dubai are incentivizing customers to utilize their existing bags. For instance, Warwick Gird, General Manager of Marketing at Spinneys, shared insights with Time Out Dubai. He noted that bags at their supermarket are available for just one fil and are designed for reuse. Shoppers who bring back their reusable bags can enjoy a discount of 25 fils on their next purchase. He remarked, “Just inform your cashier upon checkout.”

Spinneys also offers high-quality reusable bags made from 100% recycled plastic, emphasizing their commitment to reducing further plastic waste in the environment.

Similarly, Carrefour provides reusable bags that exceed 57 micrometers in thickness, promoting their reusable nature. Notably, on every Wednesday in July, Carrefour will refrain from offering plastic bags in celebration of International Plastic Bag Free Day, which occurs on July 3.

At Lulu stores, customers can find bags that also meet the thickness requirement, in addition to sustainable options crafted from recycled materials, jute, or cloth, priced between Dh1 and Dh10. Meanwhile, Nesto outlets encourage the use of shopping trolleys, available for purchase, to facilitate multiple trips while also offering reusable bag alternatives.

What Other Items Will Be Banned Following the Plastic Bag Ban?

The ban on single-use plastic bags is merely the first phase in a comprehensive initiative aimed at eliminating one-time-use products throughout the city. Starting on January 1, 2025, various items will be prohibited, including:

• Plastic straws
• Plastic stirrers
• Table covers
• Cups
• Styrofoam food containers
• Plastic cotton swabs

Furthermore, by 2026, additional plastic or foam products such as cups, plates, cutlery, boxes, and containers will also be banned. It’s worth noting that a plastic bag takes approximately 400 years to decompose in the environment, and the adverse effects on the ecosystem can persist for thousands of years.

Green Initiatives in Dubai

Plans for the ‘World’s Greenest Highway’ in Dubai
With an estimated investment of over Dhs36 billion

The Dubai Metro Expansion and 5 Other Ways Dubai is Going Green
Learn how you can contribute to these efforts

What is the UAE Blue Visa? How to Obtain One
Your complete guide to the new visa system