Dubai Police act against 18 suspects for dumping hazardous waste at unauthorized sites

Dubai Police has taken legal action against 18 suspects for illegally dumping hazardous materials, including sewage and petrochemical waste, at unauthorized locations across the emirate, Khaleej Times reported.

How many suspects and tankers were involved?

Dubai Police took action against 18 suspects and seized 17 tankers used in the illegal dumping. The Environmental Crimes Section of the Economic Crimes Department led the operation. Dubai Municipality and the Dubai Environment and Climate Change Authority supported the effort.

The action took place during the first half of 2026. Authorities identified the suspects after detecting violations of regulations governing hazardous waste disposal. Legal measures followed once investigations were complete.

Where must hazardous waste be disposed of?

Dubai Police said sewage and petrochemical waste must be disposed of only at designated locations. Disposal must also follow approved procedures set by the relevant authorities.

The force urged businesses and individuals handling waste to comply with these regulations. It said responsible disposal practices help prevent environmental and public health risks.

Has Dubai taken similar action before?

On August 17, Dubai Municipality took similar action after tankers were found dumping wastewater at unauthorized sites across the emirate. That operation also targeted illegal waste disposal practices.

Violators in such cases face steep penalties, including a fine of Dh100,000 and vehicle impoundment. These penalties fall under Executive Council Resolution No. 14 of 2015, which governs violations related to public cleanliness and waste disposal.