UAE Updates Hemp Policy to Allow Limited CBD & Industrial Uses

The UAE has updated its hemp laws to allow medicinal CBD products and certain industrial applications of the hemp plant. The United Arab Emirates is enacting legislation to allow medicinal, hemp-derived CBD products for the first time in an effort to help support a “promising market,” The National reports.

According to a federal decree issued on December 18, hemp products can be used in the UAE for health applications and for certain other industries, including construction, textiles, and paper/packaging.

The change opens the door to medically prescribed cannabidiol, or CBD, which has demonstrated effectiveness against conditions like epilepsy — the first FDA-approved medication made from cannabis, Epidiolex, is an epilepsy drug containing CBD isolate — and pain and inflammation, and others.

In addition to its health applications, hemp crops can be used to create paper, textiles, bioplastics, and construction materials like hempcrete, a substitute for concrete with an estimated global market value of $570.2M.

Intoxicating products will remain strictly prohibited, which is in line with the UAE’s zero-tolerance policies for recreational drug use. Additionally, the decree bans the import, manufacturing, and use of hemp-infused foods, smoking products, dietary supplements, and veterinary products, the report said. Hemp-based cosmetic products are also banned, except for those containing hempseed oil or any other exceptions carved out by the UAE Cabinet.

Hemp farmers will need a license from the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment to import and export seeds. Industrial hemp crops will also require special licenses and local approval.