The start of 2026 will bring more than fireworks and festivities. From January 1, a series of regulatory and policy updates will roll out across the UAE, many of them coming into force on day one of the new year.
Although January 1, 2026 is a public holiday for both public and private sector workers, residents will begin to see changes that affect schools, travel, consumer prices, sustainability rules and digital media activity. Here is a clear, practical guide to what is changing, when it starts and who it affects.
Schools to end Fridays early as prayer time changes
Most private schools in Dubai will finish much earlier on Fridays from next year, following a change to the national Friday prayer schedule.
On December 18, the Knowledge and Human Development Authority announced that private schools and early childhood centres must end classes by 11.30am on Fridays, starting January 9, 2026.
The adjustment follows the nationwide decision to move Friday prayers to 12.45pm, allowing students and staff sufficient time to return home before congregational prayers. KHDA said the move was made after consultations with schools and aims to balance educational needs with religious observance.
Friday sermon and prayer time standardised nationwide
From January 2, 2026, the Friday sermon and prayer will be held at 12.45pm across the UAE.
The change was confirmed by the General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat, which said the update will standardise prayer timings nationwide, improve organisation and ensure consistency for worshippers.
Residents are advised to arrive early at mosques to avoid missing the sermon.
Sugar sweetened drinks to face a new tax system
Sugary drinks in the UAE will be taxed differently from January 1, 2026, a move that could influence retail prices.
The Ministry of Finance confirmed that the excise tax on sugar-sweetened beverages will shift from a flat 50 per cent rate to a tiered system. Under the new model, tax levels will depend on how much sugar or sweetener a drink contains.
The change aligns the UAE with a GCC-wide volumetric framework and supports wider public health goals aimed at reducing sugar consumption.
Dubai Airport’s Red Carpet service to include arrivals
Arriving passengers at Dubai International Airport could soon experience faster immigration processing.
Dubai Airports announced that its Red Carpet service, currently available for Business Class departures, will be extended to arriving passengers at Terminal 3 by January 2026.
The rollout is being carried out in coordination with the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs Dubai, which has already begun trial operations.
Passengers who complete a one-time biometric registration on arrival will be able to use smart corridors and gates during future visits, significantly reducing processing times.
UAE to widen ban on single-use plastics
Single-use plastic restrictions will expand nationwide from January 1, 2026, under the second phase of Ministerial Decision No. 380 of 2022.
The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment confirmed that the import, manufacture and trade of several plastic items will be banned, including:
- Beverage cups and lids
- Cutlery such as forks, spoons, knives and chopsticks
- Plates
- Straws and drink stirrers
- Styrofoam food containers and boxes
The move supports the UAE’s sustainability agenda and transition to a circular economy.
Dubai enters final phase of its plastic ban
Dubai will implement the final phase of its single-use plastic ban from January 1, 2026, tightening restrictions across the emirate.
Items affected include plastic plates, cutlery, beverage cups and lids. Dubai Municipality has issued guidance to help businesses shift to approved alternative materials.
Earlier phases already banned single-use plastic bags, polystyrene containers, plastic stirrers, cotton buds and straws.
Paid parking to be introduced in Discovery Gardens
Residents of Discovery Gardens will see regulated parking introduced from January 15, 2026.
Dubai Holding Community Management confirmed that the system will be operated by Parkonic, with signage installed ahead of the launch. Each residential unit without existing parking will receive one free permit, while additional vehicles will require a paid subscription.
Deadline set for UAE content creator licence
Content creators and influencers earning income from advertising must obtain an official permit by January 31, 2026.
The UAE Media Council said the Advertiser Licence applies to monetised promotional content on social media platforms. The permit is valid for one year and is free for the first three years for UAE citizens and residents.
The licence is not required for individuals promoting their own products or services, or for minors producing educational or awareness content in line with age classification rules.
