In 2025, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) introduced a series of legislative reforms aimed at improving various aspects of the country’s social, economic and environmental life. These measures reflect the UAE’s commitment to sustainable development, corporate governance and environmental protection.
Corporate governance and gender equality
The UAE Ministry of Economy has introduced a new directive requiring all private limited companies to appoint at least one woman to their board of directors. This measure, which builds on the success of the 2021 mandate for listed companies, aims to increase gender diversity in leadership roles. The aim is to achieve 30 % female representation in leadership roles by the end of 2025, in line with the ambitions of the UAE Gender Balance Council.
Environmental protection and sustainability
The UAE has introduced a comprehensive ban on single-use plastics, targeting items such as plastic bags, cutlery, straws and polystyrene products. Businesses that fail to comply with this ban face substantial fines, ranging from 500 to 50,000 AED, depending on the severity and frequency of the offences. Dubai has already begun the first phase of this ban, with plans to extend it to include plastic cups, lids, cutlery and food containers by 2026.
Traffic and transport reforms
A major amendment to the Federal Road Traffic Act will come into force on 29 March 2025. The reforms include measures such as higher fines for speeding, tougher penalties for using a mobile phone whilst driving, and strict enforcement of the requirement for all passengers to wear seatbelts. These measures aim to improve road safety and reduce the number of road accidents in the country.
Rental market reforms
The UAE has introduced new regulations in the rental sector, including caps on rent increases and greater protections for tenants. These measures aim to create a more balanced rental market and to protect tenants’ rights against excessive rent increases.
Conclusion
The 2025 legislative reforms in the United Arab Emirates demonstrate the country’s commitment to promoting a more equitable, sustainable and safe society. These measures, covering areas such as corporate governance, environmental protection, road safety and the rental market, reflect the UAE’s desire to align itself with international best practice and to meet the evolving needs of its population.
