United Arab Emirates regulate industrial hemp and open controlled market

The United Arab Emirates have advanced in the regulation of industrial hemp, a variety of Cannabis sativa with low THC content. 

According to Cañamo website, the country has published a federal decree-law that establishes a legal framework for the production, import, processing, and use of the plant exclusively for authorized industrial and medicinal purposes.

The measure stands out coming from a country known for its strict drug legislation. Nevertheless, the decree reinforces that recreational use and personal consumption of cannabis remain prohibited, with severe penalties for infractions.

Allowed uses and restrictions

The new legislation allows the use of hemp in industrial applications, such as in the textile, construction, paper, and packaging sectors, as well as specific medicinal uses, always under state control. Products intended for human consumption, such as food, supplements, smoking items, and recreational products, remain prohibited.

Some derivatives, such as oils obtained from seeds or stems, may be authorized in specific situations, provided they meet rigorous technical requirements.

According to Cañamo portal, hemp cultivation in the United Arab Emirates can only be carried out by duly licensed companies, in delimited, fenced, and monitored areas. Plantations must maintain THC levels below 0.3%, with frequent tests and traceability systems throughout the entire production chain.

The import of seeds, planting, and processing require authorizations from the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, as well as local approvals.

Market and strategy

For analysts, the regulation opens up space for international investments and positions hemp as a strategic input within the United Arab Emirates' economic diversification and sustainability agenda. Nevertheless, the adopted model makes it clear that the country is advancing in the industrial use of the plant without relaxing its anti-drug policy.

With information from Cañamo.Net.