The UAE is set to undergo one of its most transformative years yet in 2026, with groundbreaking developments across transport, sustainability, daily life, travel, and digital services. From flying taxis to new tax rules and major public transport upgrades, residents and visitors alike will feel the shift. Here’s your complete guide to what’s changing — and how it could affect you in the year ahead.
 

1. Etihad Rail Passenger Service Launches

A long-awaited milestone: The Etihad Rail passenger network — long used for freight — will finally begin transporting people in 2026, connecting all seven emirates. Trips like Abu Dhabi to Dubai are expected to take around 50 minutes, offering a modern, efficient alternative to driving.


2. Flying Taxis — The Future of Urban Travel
Believe it or not, electric flying taxis are on track to take off in early 2026. Vertiports will be located in key areas, including Dubai International Airport, Palm Jumeirah, Downtown, and Dubai Marina, with aircraft capable of speeds up to 320 km/h. That means a ride from DXB to Palm Jumeirah could take as little as 10–12 minutes.



3. GCC Unified Visa Pilot Makes Travel Easier

The UAE and Bahrain are launching a pilot of the GCC Unified Visa in 2026, designed to simplify travel across the Gulf — similar to the Schengen model in Europe. The digital platform will streamline border procedures and could expand to all six GCC countries if successful.



4. Full Ban on Single-Use Plastics

The nationwide ban on single-use plastics comes into full effect on 1 January 2026. This includes items like plastic plates, cups with lids, cutlery, and food containers. The goal is to reduce waste and drive more sustainable habits nationwide.



5. Sugar Tax System Gets a Major Update

Starting in 2026, the UAE will move from a flat 50% excise tax on sugar-sweetened beverages to a tiered system based on sugar content. Drinks with higher sugar levels will face higher taxes, encouraging manufacturers to reduce sugar amounts and consumers to choose healthier options


 

6. SMS & Email OTPs Phased Out

Traditional SMS and email one-time passwords (OTPs) will be replaced entirely by secure app-based authentication by March 2026. This upgrade — mandated by the UAE Central Bank — enhances digital security for online banking and payments.



7. Public Transport Evolves With Speed & Innovation

Alongside rail and aerial innovation, the UAE is progressing rapidly on next-generation urban transport systems. New driverless vehicle trials and underground hyperloop-like systems are under development — with operational rollouts expected throughout 2026.



8. Education Shifts Toward Global Curricula

From April 2026, selected schools will introduce the CBSE Global Curriculum, offering a globally standardized education framework across the UAE — beginning with Indian curriculum schools.



9. 2026 Declared the “Year of the Family”

The UAE has proclaimed 2026 as the Year of the Family, spotlighting policies and initiatives to support family-centric values, wellbeing, and growth, including the launch of a dedicated Ministry of Family.



Final Thoughts

2026 is shaping up to be a pivotal year for the UAE — from efficient rail travel to cutting-edge air mobility, stronger sustainability policies, tax reform, and enhanced digital safety. Whether you’re a resident, visitor, or business owner, these changes will influence daily life and long-term opportunities across the Emirates.