As the UAE gears up for 2026, a wave of new regulations and policy updates are set to reshape everyday life for residents, workers, businesses and visitors across the country. These changes, many of which begin on January 1, span education, taxation, sustainability, travel, parking and digital media — so it’s important to know what’s coming.
School Timings Adjusted for Fridays
Private schools and early childhood centres in Dubai will shorten their Friday schedules next year. Beginning January 9, 2026, the school day must finish by 11:30 am on Fridays to allow students and staff time for Friday prayer, following nationwide changes to the Islamic prayer timetable.
Standardised Friday Prayer Time
Across the UAE, the Friday sermon and prayer will start at 12:45 pm from January 2, 2026. The unified schedule is intended to make worship timings consistent and help organisers and attendees plan more effectively.
New Tiered Tax on Sugary Drinks
Instead of a flat 50 % excise tax on all sugar-sweetened beverages, the UAE will introduce a tiered tax system based on sugar content from January 1, 2026. This change aligns with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) standards and aims to promote healthier choices by taxing high-sugar drinks more heavily.
Red Carpet Service Expanded at Dubai Airport
Dubai International Airport plans to extend its biometric Red Carpet service to arriving passengers at Terminal 3 by January 2026. This technology-driven service speeds up immigration processing for registered travellers using advanced biometric systems.
Expanded Ban on Single-Use Plastics
In a major environmental move, the UAE will widen its ban on single-use plastic products from January 1, 2026. Items such as plastic cups, lids, cutlery, plates, straws, stirrers and Styrofoam containers will no longer be permitted for import, manufacture or trade as part of national sustainability goals.
Dubai’s Final Phase of Plastic Restrictions
Dubai will implement the final phase of its own single-use plastic ban starting January 1, 2026, tightening restrictions even further and requiring businesses to switch to approved alternative materials.
Paid Parking Introduced in Discovery Gardens
From January 15, 2026, regulated paid parking will be rolled out in Discovery Gardens. Each home will receive one free parking permit, while additional vehicles will require a paid subscription under the new system managed by Parkonic.
Content Creator Licence Deadline
Content creators and influencers who earn money from paid promotional posts must secure an official media licence by January 31, 2026. This requirement aims to regulate commercial activity on social media and clarify advertising standards.
