Exciting Changes Coming to Dubai in 2025
As Dubai continuously evolves, there is always something new on the horizon. With the arrival of 2025, residents and visitors alike should brace themselves for a series of significant changes in laws and regulations. As New Year’s Eve approaches, these updates may influence your daily life, including transportation, leisure activities, and even your morning coffee routine. To help you stay informed and prepared for the upcoming year, here’s a comprehensive overview of the new laws set to take effect on January 1, 2025.
New Dubai Laws Effective January 1
The Return of the Alcohol Tax
Starting January 1, 2025, a 30 percent sales tax on alcoholic beverages, including hops, grapes, and other drinks, will be reinstated in Dubai. This tax is expected to result in increased prices for beverages at various establishments such as bars, restaurants, and hotels. Originally, the sales tax was suspended as a temporary measure from January 1 to December 31, 2023, and its extension into 2024 was announced. Although the Dubai Government has yet to make an official statement, the return of this tax has been confirmed by MMI and African+Eastern to Caterer Middle East.
A Comprehensive Ban on Single-Use Plastics
In a bid to promote sustainability, Dubai will implement a ban on several single-use plastic items, including straws, cups, and stirrers, effective January 1, 2025. This initiative is part of a phased approach to eliminate such products, which was initially introduced at the end of 2023. The latest phase of this plan will see the prohibition of plastic stirrers, table covers, cups, Styrofoam containers, straws, and cotton swabs. Businesses are being given ample time to adapt to these changes and transition to more eco-friendly alternatives.
End of the UAE Visa Amnesty Period
The UAE’s visa amnesty period will officially conclude at the end of 2024. Initially set to last two months from September 1, 2024, this amnesty was extended to accommodate a high number of applicants. Major General Suhail Saeed Al Khaili, Director General of the Federal Authority for Identity Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), emphasized that this initiative reflects the humanitarian values of the UAE. The amnesty provided an opportunity for individuals in violation of visa regulations to rectify their status without facing penalties.
Changes in Electric Vehicle Charging Fees
Starting in 2025, charging electric vehicles (EVs) at government-owned charging stations in the UAE will no longer be free. A new standardized tariff will introduce fees for using the UAEV charging network. The costs will be set at Dhs1.25 per kWh for rapid DC (direct current) chargers and Dhs0.70 per kWh for slower AC (alternating current) chargers, in addition to VAT. This adjustment coincides with the implementation of a new monthly rate for petrol and diesel across the nation.
New Dubai Laws Coming Later in January
Changes to Salik Toll Gate Charges
The Salik toll system will undergo a significant overhaul with the introduction of a variable pricing structure aimed at improving traffic management in Dubai. Set to launch at the end of January 2025, the new Variable Road Toll Pricing will range from toll-free times during early morning hours to Dhs6 during peak traffic periods. Currently, the toll charge is a flat Dhs4 for each passage, except during designated free passage hours in the evenings on weekdays and throughout Sundays at specific locations.
Introduction of the Smart Rental Index
In an effort to enhance transparency and fairness in the rental market, the Dubai Land Department will unveil a new Smart Rental Index in January 2025. This index is designed to regulate rental valuations and provide current data to assist investors, landlords, and tenants in making informed decisions regarding the real estate market.
More Insights from Time Out Dubai
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