Dubai 2026: Your Airport Just Got Genius & Your Soda Just Got Pricier!

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New year, new Dubai! January 2026 is already here and the new year isn't just about resolutions, but about real, city-wide transformations. Buckle up, because your travel, shopping, school runs, and even your Friday soda are getting a major refresh. Let’s dive into what’s new!

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Airport Arrivals Get a "Red Carpet" Treatment

Get ready to feel like a VIP! Dubai International Airport (DXB) is expanding its futuristic "Red Carpet Corridor" to Terminal 3 arrivals. This first-of-its-kind smart service uses real-time biometrics, meaning groups can glide through passport control in seconds, no passport or boarding pass needed! Majed Al Joker of Dubai Airports says it’s all about reimagining your journey with seamless technology. Travel just got a serious upgrade!

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The New Sugar Tax: A Sip of Change

Your fizzy drink just got a price check! A new GCC-wide sugar tax took effect January 1, shifting from a flat rate to a tiered system. Now, the sweeter the drink, the higher the tax. Drinks with 8g+ of sugar per 100ml face a Dh1.09/litre charge, while moderate-sugar options (5g-8g) are taxed Dh0.79. The good news? Low-sugar drinks (under 5g) and those with only artificial sweeteners are totally tax-free. Your wallet might just thank you for choosing wisely!

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Shorter Fridays for School Kids

Families, rejoice! Private school Fridays just got even shorter. Starting January 9, classes now dismiss before 11:30 AM, a half-hour earlier than before. This sweet change aligns with the UAE-wide shift of Friday prayers to 12:45 PM, ensuring Muslim students and staff have plenty of time to get home. More family time? Yes, please!

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The Single-Use Plastic Ban Expands

Dubai’s green vision is in full swing! The final phase of the single-use plastic ban is now active. As of January 1, say goodbye to plastic plates, food containers, tableware, and beverage cups with plastic lids. This major move coincides with a nationwide ban on importing and making these products. It’s a powerful step towards a cleaner, greener city!

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2026: The Official "Year of the Family"

Mark your calendars. 2026 is the UAE’s Year of the Family! This annual theme shapes national initiatives, and this year is all about strengthening the family as society's cornerstone. It’s already kicked off with a new child digital safety law, proving that family-focused support is the top priority.

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Parking at DXB Goes Totally Touch-Free

Hassle-free airport parking is here! Starting January 22, Salik’s E-Wallet system is launching across all 7,400 parking spaces at DXB’s terminals. This means automated, ticketless payments for anyone with a Salik account, no extra fees, no paper tickets, just smooth exits. Navigating the world’s busiest airport just got brilliantly simple.

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There you have it! Dubai is charging into 2026 with smarter travel, healthier choices, and more family time. Which change are you most excited about? Let us know in the comments!

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