Abu Dhabi has unveiled a groundbreaking scientific service dedicated to measuring added sugar content in beverages, marking the first initiative of its kind in the United Arab Emirates. This advanced analytical program employs sophisticated laboratory techniques to precisely quantify added sweeteners in commercial drinks, directly supporting the nation’s recently implemented tiered excise tax policy on sweetened beverages.
The service operates under Cabinet Decision No. (197) of 2025, which establishes a ‘tiered volumetric model’ targeting products containing added sugars or artificial sweeteners. While the policy encompasses most sweetened beverages, including soft drinks, it specifically exempts several categories: energy drinks (already subject to 100% excise tax), dairy-based beverages containing 75% or more milk or substitutes, infant formula and baby foods, medically necessary dietary beverages, and freshly prepared restaurant servings.
Notably, 100% natural fruit juices without added sweeteners remain exempt from classification as sweetened beverages regardless of their natural sugar concentration. The initiative represents a significant public health measure aimed at encouraging healthier consumer choices while providing scientific validation for tax enforcement mechanisms. This development aligns with growing global concerns about sugar consumption and its impact on population health.