What's Changing in the UAE in 2026: Key Information for Investors

The new year in the United Arab Emirates has begun with a series of changes affecting daily life. For instance, as of 1 January, the Friday prayer time has been uniformly shifted to 12:45 PM nationwide. Furthermore, the use of single-use plastics is now largely prohibited. This includes items such as plastic cups, lids, cutlery, polystyrene foam, straws, stirrers, and thin plastic bags. This measure is part of a broader sustainability strategy.

Additionally, a new sugar tax has been introduced. Instead of the previous fixed levy of 50% on sugar-sweetened products, a variable system is now in place, dependent on the actual sugar content. This makes healthier products more attractively priced.

What Else is Planned for 2026

Several more changes are scheduled for this year. On 6 January, banks will stop sending SMS codes (OTPs) for payments. From that date, authentication must be done via the bank's app, often using facial recognition or fingerprint scanning. Those who shop or bank online must ensure their app is updated promptly.

On 9 January, school hours in Dubai will change: private schools must finish by 11:30 AM on Fridays. This offers families greater flexibility and time for religious or social activities. From 15 January, parking in Discovery Gardens will become paid, and on 31 January, the deadline for the free application of a three-year content creator licence expires.

Further adjustments will follow in February. From 1 February, paid parking will be introduced in International City, daily from 8:00 AM to midnight, except on Sundays when parking is free.

Later in 2026, the new Etihad Rail passenger service is expected to launch. This train link between Abu Dhabi and Dubai will connect the two cities in just 57 minutes. Work is also progressing on air taxis, with a dedicated vertiport under construction near Dubai International Airport.

Furthermore, a joint tourist visa for all six Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states will be introduced. This will allow tourists to visit all GCC countries with a single permit. In addition, the legal age of majority has been lowered from 21 to 18 years, and a new law concerning children's digital safety will come into effect.

Finally, 2026 has been declared the "Year of the Family" in the UAE, indicating a policy focus on family values and societal support in government initiatives.