Last updated: January 05, 2026 | 18:07
Ashwani Kumar, Chief Reporter
As the UAE rolled out the second phase of its ban on single-use plastic products from January 1, retailers, manufacturers and consumers alike have embraced the shift towards sustainability with growing confidence.
Announced by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE), the expanded ban prohibits the import, manufacture and trade of a wider range of disposable plastic items, including beverage cups and lids, cutlery such as spoons, forks, knives and chopsticks, plates, straws, stirrers and food containers and boxes made of Styrofoam.
Major retailers said the transition has been smooth, driven by early preparation and strong consumer awareness.
“At LuLu Group, we are always aligned with the initiatives of the authorities and remain fully committed to sustainability-led retail practices,” said V. Nandakumar, Director of Marketing and Communications at Abu Dhabi-headquartered LuLu Group.
“We have proactively discontinued the sale of single-use plastic products such as plates, cups, cutlery, table sheets and disposable table covers across our stores.”