All about Dubai’s charge on single-use plastic bags

• Charge for Single-Use Plastic Bags in the UAE
• Scope of Policy Implementation
• Date of Implementation
• Alternatives to Plastic Bags
• FAQs

On 7th February 2022, The Executive Council of Dubai announced that it will impose a fee of 25 fils on the usage of disposable plastic bags in the emirate. The policy is in line with the UAE’s efforts to enhance environmental sustainability across the country. Here is a complete guide on the scope of policy for single-use plastic bags in Dubai.

CHARGE FOR SINGLE-USE PLASTIC BAGS IN DUBAI

Dubai has imposed a tariff of 25 fils for single-use plastic bags. (Fils is a monetary unit of Iraq, Jordan, Bahrain, Kuwait and Yemen, equal to one-fourth of the dirham in the UAE.) Therefore 25 fils represents 0.25 dirhams.

The introduction of this policy is in accordance with the UAE Energy Strategy 2050, i.e. to increase the contribution of clean energy and reduce carbon emissions in the country.

While there is a tariff now, a permanent ban is also expected on single-use plastic bags within the next two years in Dubai.

WHICH STORES WILL HAVE TO FOLLOW THE POLICY?

The policy is mandatory for all outlets operating in Dubai, including e-commerce stores, pharmacies and restaurants.

WHEN WILL THIS POLICY COME INTO EFFECT?

As per the announcement made by The Executive Council of Dubai, the tariff will be introduced from 1st July 2022.

HOW WILL THIS POLICY COME INTO EFFECT?

Dubai will launch integrated awareness campaigns in schools and universities to explain the environmental hazards of single-use plastic bags and the negative impact they can have on our planet.

Shops will also be motivated to offer environmentally-friendly alternatives, such as sustainable and/or reusable bags.

ALTERNATIVES TO PLASTIC BAGS

Looking for options to use instead of single-use plastic bags? Here are some notable choices:

• Reusable Plastic Bags: They are non-biodegradable but thicker and more durable than single-use bags.
• Jute bags: They are less expensive, sustainable, naturally biodegradable and durable.
• Canvas tote bags: They may not be completely sustainable but are durable and can be repurposed many times.
• Key-ring tote bags: They are foldable, smaller and can be attached to any backpack or a key ring. You can also recycle them.
• Shopping trolley bags: Bags with wheels! They are foldable and easy to carry from any distance.
• Mesh bags: They are plastic produce bags but can be reused many times. You can use it to store fresh produce such as fruits and veggies.

FAQs

WHY SINGLE-USE PLASTIC IS NOT GOOD FOR THE ENVIRONMENT?

The major reason is that plastic take between 20 and 500 years to decompose, often ending up as damaging debris in the world’s oceans. Even if you burn it, plastic releases toxins that pollute the air, further contributing to the climate crisis.

WILL THERE BE A PERMANENT BAN ON USING DISPOSABLE BAGS?

Not now but you can expect a permanent ban within the next two years.

HOW MUCH ARE THE DUBAI PLASTIC BAG CHARGES?

The charge for single-use plastic bags in Dubai will be 25 fils from 1st July 2022.

That brings an end to our guide on the new environment centric policy to avoid single-use plastic bags in Dubai. The UN warns that if current practices continue, it is very likely that oceans will have more plastic than fish by 2050.

This is not the first time UAE has made an effort to ensure sustainability in the region. Over the past few years, the country has carried out many successful campaigns and environmental-friendly projects to expand the capacity for carbon capture.

Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park (also known as Dubai Solar Park) is a testament to UAE’s efforts to maintain a clean, safe and healthy environment in the country. Here are some other leading sustainable developments in the UAE.

Remember, charity begins at home, so no matter how many initiatives the government takes, they won’t have as much of an impact unless every individual contributes to the cause equally. You can start by taking small steps. For instance, you can consider turning your home solar with DEWA in Dubai.