UAE Single-Use Bag Ban 2026: Compliant Bags for Shops and Restaurants
Since 1 January 2026 the UAE has banned the import, manufacture and trade of single-use bags of any material, including paper bags under 50 microns, according to Gulf News. Single-use cups and lids, cutlery, plates, straws and Styrofoam food boxes are banned too. For supermarkets, pharmacies, bakeries, cafes, restaurants and shops, the question is now simple: which bag do we give customers instead?
This guide explains what changed, what is exempt and the compliant bag options you can brand with your logo.
What the 2026 phase covers
- Single-use shopping bags of any material, including thin paper bags under 50 microns.
- Single-use cups and lids, cutlery, plates, straws and stirrers.
- Styrofoam food containers and boxes.
The first phase, from 1 January 2024, already banned single-use plastic shopping bags, including biodegradable ones.
What is exempt
Reports list these exemptions: products made only for export or re-export, bags and products made from material recycled in the UAE, medicine bags, refuse bags, thin bags for fresh food such as meat, vegetables and bread, and large bags for items such as clothing, electronics and toys. Always confirm the rules that apply to your emirate and sector.
Compliant bag options for shops
Reusable non-woven bags
Low cost per bag with a large print area. A common choice for supermarkets and retail chains. See non-woven bags.
Cotton, jute and juco bags
Premium reusable bags customers keep for years. See cotton bags, jute bags and juco bags.
Thicker paper bags
Our paper bags are over 50 microns, with twisted, flat, rope or ribbon handles. See printed paper bags and paper bags wholesale.
Thermal bags for food delivery
Restaurants and cloud kitchens can switch to reusable insulated bags made in our Dubai workshop. See thermal and food delivery bags.
Set up a branded checkout bag programme
- Pick one or two bag types for the checkout: a low-cost reusable bag and a premium bag.
- Decide whether you sell, give or reward the bag; in Abu Dhabi retailers charge from 50 fils (Khaleej Times).
- Print your logo and a short reuse message so the bag works as advertising.
- Plan stock for each branch and reorder before you run out.
Talk to Green Bags UAE
Green Bags UAE has made custom bags in Dubai since 2006, from our warehouse in Al Qusais Industrial Area 5. Most bags start from 50 pieces. Call +971 4 370 5277 or email enquiry@greenbagsuae.com for a free quote, or send your requirements.
Frequently asked questions
Are paper bags banned in the UAE from 2026?
Single-use bags of any material are banned from 1 January 2026, and reports state this includes paper bags under 50 microns. Thicker, reusable paper bags are the usual alternative. Check the current rules for your emirate and sector.
Which bags are exempt from the UAE ban?
Reports list exemptions for products made only for export, bags made from material recycled in the UAE, medicine bags, refuse bags, thin bags for fresh food such as meat, vegetables and bread, and large bags for items such as clothing, electronics and toys.
What can supermarkets and shops give customers instead?
Reusable bags in non-woven fabric, cotton, jute or juco, and thicker paper bags. Many shops sell reusable bags at the checkout; in Abu Dhabi retailers charge from 50 fils.
Are Green Bags UAE paper bags over 50 microns?
Yes. Our paper bags are thicker than 50 microns. Tell us your use and we will suggest a suitable paper and handle.
What is the minimum order for branded checkout bags?
Most bags start from 50 pieces. Thermal delivery bags start from 100 pieces.
