2:41 am - February 14, 2026
On World Environment Day, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, reaffirmed the country’s commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable development. In a message shared on social media platform X, he underscored the UAE’s collaboration with the international community, declaring a shared vision of a healthier, resilient world and the urgency of meaningful climate action to protect the planet for future generations.
This year’s World Environment Day embraced the theme “Beat Plastic Pollution,” aiming to raise awareness around the pressing need to tackle plastic waste on a global scale. The UAE’s participation in this event highlights its call for coordinated international efforts to mitigate plastic pollution while promoting resource efficiency, biodiversity, and a transition towards a circular economy. The president’s remarks reflect a fundamental ethos in the UAE’s approach to climate change, showcasing an enduring commitment to combating environmental degradation.
In line with these initiatives, the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment has rolled out a comprehensive programme aimed at monitoring plastic waste in marine and coastal environments. This programme employs scientific studies to bolster ongoing efforts in reducing plastic pollution, demonstrating the UAE’s proactive stance in addressing environmental challenges. Furthermore, the government has introduced legislation to restrict single-use products, culminating in a nationwide ban on single-use plastic bags that commenced in 2024. A broader prohibition on other single-use bags is set for implementation by 2026.
The push to reduce plastic usage is not isolated to national policy; it is mirrored across various emirates. For example, Ras Al Khaimah has also enacted a ban on single-use plastic bags as of January 1, 2024. This ban encompasses not only the use but also the trading and distribution of single-use plastic materials, demonstrating a robust commitment to environmental conservation. Similarly, Ajman is instituting a ban that aligns with federal initiatives aimed at achieving a plastic-free UAE, encouraging consumers to switch to reusable alternatives.
Moreover, a nationwide initiative designed to eliminate single-use plastic items entirely by 2026 is underway. This extensive legislation will cover various products, including plastic cutlery, foam containers, and straws. However, allowances are made for items made from recycled materials and those designated for export. This policy aims to ensure that sustainable, reusable options are readily available to consumers and businesses alike.
With these comprehensive measures, the UAE is fortifying its position on the global environmental stage, balancing economic development with the necessary protection of natural resources. Through these continual efforts, the UAE aspires to serve as a model for other nations, promoting a collective responsibility towards environmental sustainability and climate resilience.
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Source: Noah Wire Services
- https://www.arnnewscentre.ae/en/news/uae/uae-president-reaffirms-climate-action-pledge-on-world-environment-day/ – Please view link – unable to able to access data
- https://www.arnnewscentre.ae/en/news/uae/uae-president-reaffirms-climate-action-pledge-on-world-environment-day/ – On World Environment Day, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to environmental protection and sustainable development. He emphasised the UAE’s dedication to collaborating with the international community to drive meaningful climate action and safeguard the planet for future generations. The UAE’s participation in World Environment Day, themed ‘Beat Plastic Pollution’, highlights its call for coordinated global efforts to reduce plastic waste, promote resource efficiency, conserve biodiversity, and transition towards a circular economy. The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment has implemented a comprehensive programme to monitor plastic waste in the UAE’s marine and coastal environments, conducting scientific studies to enhance efforts in reducing plastic waste. In support of these initiatives, the UAE government has introduced legislation to restrict the use of single-use products. A nationwide ban on single-use plastic bags took effect in 2024, with a broader ban on other single-use bags scheduled for 2026. The UAE continues to advance sustainable policies, strategies, and legislation that balance economic and social progress with environmental protection for future generations.
- https://www.khaleejtimes.com/uae/uae-ban-on-plastic-bags-to-take-effect-in-this-emirate-from-january-1-2024 – Starting January 1, 2024, Ras Al Khaimah will implement a ban on single-use plastic bags, aligning with the UAE’s nationwide initiative to reduce plastic pollution. The ban prohibits the use, possession, trading, sale, or distribution of single-use plastic materials in the emirate, beginning with plastic bags. This measure aims to preserve natural resources and reduce the environmental footprint associated with plastic waste. The Environmental Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah calls upon all segments of society to collaborate towards achieving sustainable development and mitigating the environmental impact of plastic waste.
- https://www.khaleejtimes.com/uae/uae-ban-on-single-use-plastic-bags-takes-effect-in-ajman-1.100395387 – Ajman has enforced a ban on single-use plastic bags, effective from January 2024. The municipality announced that, in accordance with Ministerial Decision No. 380 of 2022 and Federal Law No. 2 of 2018 concerning integrated waste management, the use of single-use plastic bags is prohibited in all shopping centres and sales outlets in the emirate. This decision is part of the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment’s initiative aimed at making the UAE free from plastic bags. The municipality encourages consumers to adopt reusable bags to support environmental sustainability.
- https://www.khaleejtimes.com/uae/uae-to-ban-single-use-plastic-items-from-2026-1.93132385 – The UAE has announced a nationwide ban on single-use plastic items, set to take effect in 2026. This ban will cover products such as plastic cups, lids, cutlery, forks, knives, spoons, plates, food containers, and boxes made of foam (styrofoam). The decision aims to protect the environment from pollution caused by the consumption of such products. Exemptions from the ban include certain products made from recycled materials within the country and those intended for export or re-export. The resolution emphasizes the need to promote and support initiatives that increase the use of multi-use products and ensure that sustainable, multi-use alternatives are readily available at all retail outlets.
- https://www.khaleejtimes.com/uae/environment/dubais-ban-on-all-single-use-bags-from-june-1-know-the-fines-and-rules-1.102802884 – Dubai has implemented a ban on all single-use bags, effective from June 1. The ban starts with single-use plastic bags in January 2024, followed by non-plastic single-use products in June 2024. Starting from January 1, 2025, single-use plastic products, including items such as plastic stirrers, table covers, cups, styrofoam food containers, plastic straws, and plastic cotton swabs, will be prohibited. Commencing on January 1, 2026, the ban will extend to other single-use plastic products, including plastic plates, plastic food containers, plastic tableware, and beverage cups and their plastic lids. The municipality will publish a guidebook for both consumers and businesses to assist in choosing alternatives.
- https://www.khaleejtimes.com/uae/uae-single-use-plastic-bags-banned-in-this-emirate-from-january-1-2024-1.98544937 – Ras Al Khaimah has enacted a law banning the use of single-use plastic bags, effective from January 2024. The Environmental Protection and Development Authority announced that the law prohibits the use, possession, trading, sale, or distribution of single-use plastic materials in the emirate, starting with plastic bags. This initiative aligns with the UAE’s direction to reduce the use of non-biodegradable plastic materials and aims to preserve natural resources and reduce the environmental footprint associated with plastic waste. The authority calls upon all segments of society to collaborate towards achieving sustainable development and mitigating the environmental impact of plastic waste.
Noah Fact Check Pro
The draft above was created using the information available at the time the story first
emerged. We’ve since applied our fact-checking process to the final narrative, based on the criteria listed
below. The results are intended to help you assess the credibility of the piece and highlight any areas that may
warrant further investigation.
Freshness check
Score:
8
Notes:
The narrative is current, dated June 5, 2025. The UAE President’s reaffirmation of climate action on World Environment Day aligns with previous statements, such as those on National Environment Day in February 2025. ([arnnewscentre.ae](https://www.arnnewscentre.ae/en/news/uae/uae-committed-to-climate-action-efforts-says-president/?utm_source=openai)) However, the specific content of the June 5 statement appears to be original, with no exact matches found in prior publications. The report includes updated data on the UAE’s plastic waste monitoring programme and legislation on single-use plastics, indicating a higher freshness score. No significant discrepancies or recycled content were identified. The report is not based on a press release, which typically warrants a higher freshness score.
Quotes check
Score:
9
Notes:
The direct quote from the UAE President, “On World Environment Day, we reaffirm our steadfast commitment to protecting the environment and advancing sustainable development,” is unique to this report. No identical quotes were found in earlier material, suggesting potential originality. Variations in wording were not noted, and no earlier usage of this exact quote was identified.
Source reliability
Score:
7
Notes:
The narrative originates from the ARN News Centre, a reputable news outlet in the UAE. While it is a known source, it is not as globally recognized as some international media. The report cites official statements and aligns with known UAE environmental policies, enhancing its credibility. However, the outlet’s regional focus may limit its international recognition.
Plausability check
Score:
8
Notes:
The claims made in the narrative are plausible and consistent with the UAE’s known environmental initiatives. The report mentions the UAE’s commitment to reducing plastic waste and implementing legislation on single-use plastics, which aligns with previous announcements. The tone and language are consistent with official UAE communications. No inconsistencies or suspicious elements were identified.
Overall assessment
Verdict (FAIL, OPEN, PASS): PASS
Confidence (LOW, MEDIUM, HIGH): HIGH
Summary:
The narrative is current, with no recycled content or significant discrepancies identified. The direct quote from the UAE President appears original, and the source is reputable, though regionally focused. The claims are plausible and consistent with known UAE environmental policies. No issues with freshness, originality, or disinformation were found.
