Oman's Phased Plastic Bag Ban Expands to New Sectors, Aiming for Full Phase-Out by 2027
Oman has launched the fifth phase of its progressive ban on single-use plastic bags, effective July 1, 2026. This phase extends the prohibition to sectors such as furniture and carpet shops, gold shops, barber and tailoring establishments, vehicle maintenance centers, and car showrooms. The initiative, first introduced in 2021, is part of a broader environmental governance framework aimed at protecting the Sultanate's coastlines, marine ecosystems, and biodiversity from plastic pollution. The phased approach allows businesses time to adapt and source sustainable alternatives, demonstrating a balance between environmental ambition and business continuity. 
