Major changes coming to Dubai starting January 1, 2025

There is seldom a dull day in Dubai. People of more than a hundred nationalities stay here, enjoying the place and the opportunities it offers. 2025 is just hours far from us and it seems there is still some time to look at a handful of changes to come.

In January 2025, Dubai is set to introduce some pretty major changes. There is going to be the next phase of a single-use plastic ban and the updated fuel prices, too. Let’s get a glimpse of the upcoming updates through this article.

Major changes coming to Dubai in 2025

1. UAE petrol prices for January 2025

The UAE Fuel Price Committee has just announced petrol and diesel prices for January. The rates are updated every month. January shall see the same rates as December.

Super 98: Dh2.61 per litre

Special 95: Dh2.50 per litre

E-Plus 91: Dh2.43 per litre

Diesel: Dh2.68 per litre

2. UAE visa amnesty period ends

The UAE visa amnesty period is going to end today. This scheme had been extended due to high demand. It offered an opportunity to people in violation of the UAE visa rules to correct their status and simultaneously not face any repercussions.

3. Expanded single-use plastic ban

Starting January 1, many more single-use plastic products shall be banned. The phasing out of single-use products is happening in 3 stages. The second stage starts in 2025 and shall see plastic stirrers, table covers and styrofoam food containers getting banned.

4. Reintroduction of alcohol tax

Dubai is bringing back a 30% tax sales tax on hops, grapes and other house beverages. Set to be rolled out as the clock strikes midnight, this change is going to see a hike in the prices of drinks at bars, restaurants and hotels.