Dubai doesn’t do “boring”. With every tick of the clock, the city reinvents itself, and 2025 is no exception. While you were busy counting down and clinking glasses, UAE was busy unveiling a slew of laws to kickstart the new year. From the way you sip your coffee to how you zip around town, these changes are set to redefine life in the city. Let’s dive into what’s new and what you need to know.
6 New UAE Laws You Should Know About!
Visa Amnesty: Grace Period Ends
The UAE’s visa amnesty, a lifeline for many to regularise their status without penalties, officially ended on 31 December 2024. This amnesty period, initially introduced in September and extended due to high demand, was a humanitarian gesture by the government. If you’ve been meaning to sort your visa situation, you’ll now need to do so under the standard rules and regulations along with the referred penalties.
The Second Phase Of The Plastic Ban
Dubai’s war on single-use plastics has gone up a notch. Starting 1 January 2025, plastic straws, cups, stirrers, table covers, and even styrofoam food containers are no longer welcome. This is the second phase of a three-part ban announced in late 2023, with full implementation expected by 2026. Businesses have been given time to adjust, but for you, this means a shift to reusable or biodegradable alternatives. So, next time you order a drink, be ready to sip sustainably!
Partying In Dubai Just Got Pricier With The Return of the Beverage Tax
After a two-year hiatus, Dubai has reinstated its 30% sales tax on beverages. Bars, hotels, and restaurants will now pass the hike to consumers, meaning that weekend cheers might cost a little more. The tax was suspended as a temporary measure in 2023 to boost tourism and economic recovery. However, Dubai’s leading alcohol distributors, MMI African+Eastern, and Fibber Maggies, the famous bar have confirmed its return, so plan your bar-hopping budget accordingly.
Plugging Into New Costs As EV Charging No Longer Free
For electric vehicle (EV) drivers, 2025 brings a new charge, literally. The UAE’s government-owned EV charging network now has a tariff. Charging your EV will cost AED1.25 per kWh (plus VAT) for fast DC chargers and AED0.70 per kWh (plus VAT) for slower AC chargers. This marks a shift towards sustainability while aligning EV costs with traditional fuel expenses, which also saw a pricing update this month.
What’s Coming Later This Month?
Salik Toll Gets A Smart Makeover
بينما نستعد لاستقبال عام 2025، نتأمل رحلة عام 2024 بكل ما حملته من إنجازات ونجاحات في سالك. من التوسع في البنية التحتية والخدمات المبتكرة إلى المسؤولية المجتمعية والشراكات الاستراتيجية، كان عامًا مليئًا بالتحديات والفرص التي ترجمناها إلى نجاحات ملموسة. pic.twitter.com/PVYdQWiYF6
— Salik (@Salik_ae) December 31, 2024
Driving in Dubai is about to become a tad more strategic. By the end of January, the Salik toll system will introduce variable pricing. During peak hours, tolls will rise to Dhs6, while early morning drivers may enjoy toll-free passage. This move aims to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion during rush hours. So, if you’re an early bird, you might just save a few dirhams.
Smart Rental Index to Shake Up Real Estate
The Dubai Land Department is rolling out a Smart Rental Index to make the rental market more transparent and balanced. This tool will provide real-time data for investors, landlords, and tenants to make informed decisions. If you’re renting in Dubai, expect fairer valuations and fewer surprises when it’s time to renew your lease.
Stay Ahead Of The Curve
Dubai thrives on change, and its latest UAE laws reflect the city’s forward-thinking ethos. From environmental consciousness to smart city initiatives, 2025 promises a more dynamic, sustainable, and organised Dubai. Whether adjusting your morning coffee ritual or navigating new toll charges, staying informed is key. Embrace the changes, and let’s make 2025 a year to remember!
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Stock Images
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