DUBAI: Dubai has become the latest emirate to announce a ban on single-use plastics. From January 1, 2024, such plastics will be completely banned in Dubai. Violators of the ban will be fined 2,000 dirhams (Rs 45,370), announced the ministry. The immediate ban on plastic is intended to bring down pollution and conform to green environment status.

Food delivery packaging materials, plastic bags used to wrap fruits and vegetables are also banned. But there is no ban on plastic used for export of meat, fish, vegetables, fruits and grains. Starting from January 1, 2024, there will be a ban on Tableware, cups, plastic lids, plastic plates and food containers.

Abu Dhabi was the first to ban single-use plastics in 2022. The ban was first imposed in Ajman and Umm al-Quwain province in 2022. In July last year, restrictions on such plastics were imposed in Sharjah and Dubai. During this time, for urgent needs, plastic bags were provided by charging 25 fils. The new law also applies to non-residents. Violators of the ban will have to pay hefty fines, warned the ministry.