Dubai to roll out major policy, education, and lifestyle changes in 2026
supriyatunk
Dubai is set to introduce a wide range of reforms in 2026, reflecting the emirate’s continued push toward a more sustainable, secure, and future-ready society. The upcoming changes span employment, education, banking, sustainability, and public health, directly impacting residents and businesses alike.
One of the most notable updates affects employment policy. Emiratis working in the private sector will receive a minimum monthly salary of Dh6,000, a move aimed at strengthening national workforce participation and improving income stability.
In line with its environmental commitments, Dubai will also implement a complete ban on single-use plastic food containers. The measure builds on earlier plastic reduction initiatives and reinforces the emirate’s long-term sustainability goals.
Significant legal reform is also on the agenda. The age of legal adulthood will be reduced from 21 to 18, granting younger residents expanded legal rights and responsibilities and aligning local regulations more closely with global standards.
The education sector will see multiple adjustments. Private schools are expected to shift to earlier Fridays, while the school admission age cut-off will move to December 31, offering greater flexibility for families enrolling new students.
In the financial sector, Dubai’s banks will begin phasing out one-time passwords (OTPs) for transactions. Secure approvals will instead be handled through banking apps, enhancing digital security and reducing fraud risks.
Lifestyle and public health policies are also evolving. Under a proposed tiered sugar tax, high-sugar beverages may become more expensive, encouraging healthier consumer choices and supporting broader wellness initiatives.
Together, these reforms underline Dubai’s strategy of proactive governance, combining innovation, sustainability, and social development. As 2026 approaches, the emirate continues to position itself as one of the world’s most adaptive and forward-looking global cities.
