As 2026 begins, several major policy changes have come into effect across the UAE, with others rolling out during January. While January 1 is a public holiday, it also marks the start of new regulations impacting schools, taxes, travel, sustainability, parking, and digital content creation.
Here is a clear breakdown of the key changes, when they start, and who they affect:
From January 9, 2026, private schools and early childhood centers in Dubai must end classes by 11:30 am on Fridays, the KHDA announced. The move aligns with the new nationwide Friday prayer time and allows students and staff to return home before prayers.
From January 2, 2026, Friday sermons and prayers will take place at 12:45 pm across the UAE, according to the General Authority of Islamic Affairs. Authorities urged worshippers to arrive early to avoid missing the sermon.
On January 1, 2026, the UAE introduced a tiered excise tax on sugar-sweetened beverages. The new system replaces the flat 50% tax and links taxation to sugar content, aligning with a GCC-wide model aimed at improving public health.
Dubai Airports will expand its Red Carpet biometric service to arriving passengers at Terminal 3 by January 2026. After a one-time biometric registration, travelers can enjoy faster immigration processing using AI-powered smart corridors.
From January 1, 2026, the UAE will ban the import, manufacture, and sale of several single-use plastic items, including:
The move supports sustainability goals and a circular economy.
Dubai will enforce the final phase of its single-use plastic ban from January 1, 2026, further restricting plastic plates, cutlery, cups, and lids. Businesses must shift to approved alternatives, supported by guidance from Dubai Municipality.
From January 15, 2026, paid parking will be implemented across Discovery Gardens. Each residential unit without a parking space will receive one free permit, while additional vehicles will require paid subscriptions.
Content creators earning from promotional posts must obtain an Advertiser License by January 31, 2026, the UAE Media Council said. The permit is free for the first three years for UAE citizens and residents and aims to regulate social media advertising.
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