Oman's Environment Authority Extends Plastic Ban to New Commercial Sectors

Oman’s Environment Authority has announced that the fourth phase of the national plastic shopping bag ban will take effect on January 1, 2026, further expanding restrictions to a wider array of commercial sectors as part of the country’s ongoing drive to reduce plastic waste and protect the environment.

Under Decision No. (2024/8), the latest stage in the phased rollout will extend the prohibition of single-use plastic shopping bags to businesses that previously were not covered, including date vendors, water and water pump sellers, automotive pump sales and repair shops, modern irrigation retailers, plant nurseries and agricultural supply stores, pet shops, construction and building materials outlets, and sellers of animal feed, grains, pesticides and agricultural chemicals. Sectors such as ice cream, corn, sweets and nut vendors, juice shops, traditional food stalls (including mashakeek vendors), mills and honey sellers will also be included. 

The Environment Authority emphasised that the move reflects Oman’s commitment to environmental sustainability and responsible consumption by accelerating efforts to curb plastic pollution and promote more eco-friendly alternatives. Businesses affected by the upcoming ban are being encouraged to transition ahead of the January deadline. 

This latest expansion follows a phased approach that began in July 2024, gradually introducing stricter controls on plastic bag usage across different sectors over several years. Earlier phases saw bans in pharmacies, hospitals, clinics, textile and clothing outlets, and a range of retail and food shops, all aimed at reducing plastic waste and aligning with broader sustainability goals. 

The Environment Authority’s continued implementation of the nationwide ban, paired with monitoring and compliance campaigns, underscores Oman’s Vision 2040 objectives to protect natural resources and foster environmentally responsible behaviour among consumers and businesses. 

As the country prepares for this next phase of restrictions on single-use plastics, Omani authorities and environmental advocates are urging cooperation from the private sector and the public to ensure a smooth transition to sustainable alternatives that reduce pollution and support long-term ecological health.