Yes, collecting sea glass in the UAE is generally permitted but subject to stringent environmental regulations enforced by federal and local authorities. While not explicitly banned, compliance with the UAE’s environmental laws and coastal protection policies is mandatory to avoid penalties.
Key Regulations for Collecting Sea Glass in United Arab Emirates
-
Federal Environment Law No. 24 of 1999 (amended 2021) prohibits the removal of natural resources from protected coastal zones without prior authorization from the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE). Violations may result in fines up to AED 2 million or imprisonment.
-
Local Emirate-Specific Rules in Dubai (Law No. 11 of 2021) and Abu Dhabi (Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi, EAD, Resolution 2023-01) restrict beachcombing activities in designated conservation areas. Collectors must obtain permits for commercial or large-scale extraction.
-
2026 Compliance Shifts introduce mandatory digital reporting via the MOCCAE’s Green Screen platform for all marine resource extractions, including sea glass, to track sustainability metrics and enforce quotas in high-risk zones.