UAE Updates Hemp Policy to Allow Limited CBD & Industrial Uses

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.