The UAE has issued a new federal law regarding agricultural quarantine. The law aims to prevent the introduction and spread of pests within the State and protect the environment and plant resources. It applies to plants, plant products, beneficial organisms, and other articles regulated by phytosanitary regulations imported into, exported from, or in transit through the State.
Who should read this
Agricultural businesses and traders should immediately review this law.
Directly affected
Key facts
- Issued on 26 December 2025
- Effective from 30 January 2026
- Published in the Official Gazette No. 814 on 31 December 2025
- Regulates the import, export, and transit of agricultural consignments
- Establishes phytosanitary measures to prevent the introduction and spread of pests
- Designates quarantine centers and areas
What this means for you
The new law means that importers and exporters of agricultural products must comply with phytosanitary regulations to prevent the introduction and spread of pests in the UAE.
Amends / replaces: Repeals Federal Law No. (5) of 1979 Regarding Agricultural Quarantine
Directly affected: importers, exporters, agricultural businesses, traders
Effective date: 30 January 2026
Action items
- Review the new law and understand the phytosanitary regulations
- Ensure compliance with the regulations for importing and exporting agricultural products
- Designate a person responsible for ensuring compliance
- Establish procedures for inspecting and treating agricultural consignments
Litigation impact
The new law may affect pending or future litigation related to agricultural quarantine and phytosanitary regulations. Parties involved in such disputes should review the law and its implications on their cases.
Source
UAE Legislation Portal — Real Estate & Land (Sector 39)
https://uaelegislation.gov.ae/en/legislations/3995
Original-source date: 2025 · Captured: 2026-05-26T10:28+00:00Z
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This update is generated from a public regulator publication and reviewed under the firm's automated editorial quality gate. General information only — it does not constitute legal advice. For advice on a specific matter, please contact us. Last updated: 26 May 2026.