Dubai's Ban On Single-Use Plastic Bags Starts From June 1st
As a move to renew its push towards a more sustainable and greener future, Dubai bans the single-use plastic bags from June 1st onwards. Taking to X (formerly twitter), Dubai Municipality updated that the country takes stand against the single-use bags, and asked to switch reusable cloth bags. The post advised to “be part of the change”.
As of June 1, 2024, #Dubai takes a stand against single-use bags. Make the switch to reusable cloth bags & be part of the change.#DubaiMoreSustainable #DubaiMunicipality pic.twitter.com/deZkFgBHfT
— بلدية دبي | Dubai Municipality (@DMunicipality) May 25, 2024
The authority also revealed different phases in which the policy will be followed.
- From June 1, 2024, Dubai will impose a complete ban on single-use bags (including paper, biodegradable and recycled plastic) and will stop levying the 25 fils fee for buying a bag at the retail counter.
- From January 1, 2025, plastic stirrers, styrofoam food containers, plastic table covers, plastic cotton swabs, plastic straws and single-use styrofoam cups will be banned.
- From January 1, 2026, single-use plastic cups and lids, single-use plastic cutlery, plastic food containers and plastic plates will be banned.
It is to note that business owners may face penalty of Dhs200 in case of the non-compliance with new policy. The amount will be doubled if it is repeated.
Notably, the ban doesn’t not apply to every plastic bag. The wrapping bags used for meat, vegetables picked from the super markets are excluded from the ban. Rubbish bin liners and laundry bags are also banned.
The move is considered as an initiative to completely phase out single-use products to minimise the plastic wastes and to foster a culture or recycling among the population, including businesses.
