The UAE amends its laws significantly every year to make it simpler for citizens to enjoy living in Dubai. Here are three new regulations that were implemented in the UAE in 2024 that you should be aware of, ranging from a total ban on single-use plastic bags to charged parking in Dubai Malls:
Update to Golden Visa requirements
The Dhs1 million down payment that was once necessary to be eligible for the 10-year Golden Visa (via property investment) has been eliminated by Dubai. Now, the property worth needs to be more than Dhs2 million in order for buyers to qualify for the Golden Visa. Investors in real estate used to need to make a minimum deposit of Dhs1 million. The majority of Dubai property investors will now be eligible for the unique 10-year golden residence, which is great news for buyers.
E-scooters banned on public transport
The RTA declared that using and carrying e-scooters on Dubai’s metro and tram services is prohibited as of March 1. The RTA said in the Tweet that the prohibition was put in place to protect those who use public transport. There’s no word on whether e-scooters are prohibited on bus routes, despite the prohibition being in place for the metro and tram systems.
Ban on single-use plastic bags
Single-use plastic bags will no longer be available for import or purchase in Dubai as of January 1. There are several variations, such as bread, grains, vegetables, seafood, fruits, and meat/fish packaged in thin-film rolls. The prohibition does not apply to garbage bags either. The announcement was made by Dubai’s Crown Prince, HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. As part of the emirate’s efforts to become greener, single-use products would be phased out entirely. All non-plastic single-use items, especially bags made of other materials, will be prohibited in Dubai as of June 1, 2024. A Dhs200 fine will be levied for any noncompliance during the first phase of the ban, which only applies to disposable plastic bags. A ban on single-use plastic bags has been in place in Abu Dhabi since June 2022.
Paid parking in Dubai Mall
Salik and Emaar Malls have stated that parking at one of the largest malls globally would soon be a further fee. Salik is going to implement a barrier-free system in lieu of the payment. Customers will be charged by car plate recognition, and the entire process will be automated. The customer’s Salik user ID will be immediately debited for the payment, much like when you pass a toll. It is expected to launch in 2024’s third quarter. For further information, continue to monitor What’s On as the price is still unknown.
UAE raffles and prize draws put on hold
The popular lucky draw in the UAE, Mahzooz, has declared a brief stop to operations. Over 1.8 million winners received more than half a billion dirhams from the well-known prize draw, which also produced 64 millionaires. However, as of January 1, 2024, the draws started, since the company announced on its website: “Mahzooz will temporarily pause operations from January 1st, 2024 in compliance with applicable commercial gaming laws.” An industry-wide directive in line with the Regulators’ expanded responsibilities to provide a properly regulated gaming environment in the United Arab Emirates is the cause of the halt.
