It’s a fresh start and a brand-new year—time to manifest your dreams, tackle your resolutions, and crush your goals. But it’s also a time for change. Whether you’re planning to make changes or not, here’s your reminder that the UAE will be rolling out some exciting transformations this year too.
Emiratisation Targets:
Private sector companies with a workforce of 20 to 49 employees are now required to hire at least two Emirati nationals.
Plastic Ban:
Dubai Municipality has announced that starting June 1, 2024, residents will no longer be able to pay 25 fils for single-use plastic bags! This is part of a phased ban on single-use plastic items. The upcoming restrictions will also cover Styrofoam containers and cups, plastic stirrers, straws, table covers, and cotton buds with plastic stems.
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Salik Surge Pricing:
The RTA has announced that surge pricing for Salik will kick in at the end of January. During peak hours, motorists will be charged AED 6 for using the toll gates.
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Tax on Multinationals:
Large multinational enterprises (MNEs) will now pay a minimum tax of 15% on their profits in the UAE, up from the previous corporate tax rate of 9%.
Parking Pricing Policy:
The new Congestion Pricing Policy for event areas introduces a fee of AED 25 per hour for public-paid parking spaces near event zones. This will first be implemented around the Dubai World Trade Centre during major events, starting in February 2025.
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Sewerage Bill Increase:
For the first time in 10 years, sewage system fees in Dubai will rise. The new rate will start at 1.5 fils per gallon, up from the previous 1 fil. #Sewage #Fees #Dubai pic.twitter.com/5zzXnSDSw3
Lower Driving Age:
A new federal decree law on traffic regulations has lowered the minimum driving age to 17 years old.
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Alcohol Tax:
A 30% tax has been reinstated on alcoholic beverages, which is likely to lead to higher prices at bars and restaurants.
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EV Charging Stations:
Electric vehicle charging stations will no longer be free. The new fees will be AED 1.25 per kWh (plus VAT) for faster DC (direct current) chargers, and AED 0.70 per kWh (plus VAT) for slower AC (alternating current) chargers.
