The UAE is sharpening its stance against wildlife trafficking. Starting in 2026, a new law replaces 22-year-old rules to crack down on illegal trade of plants and animals. Federal Decree-Law No. 22 of 2025 sets tough limits and wide powers for customs and environmental officials. "This law signals a 'zero-tolerance' policy," said Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment. The law aligns UAE with the global CITES agreement, ensuring every exotic species entering the country is tracked and protected. Trade in protected plants and animals now requires permits and health certificates. Officials at airports, land borders, and ports will enforce strict checks against illegal imports and exports. Violators face severe punishments: fines up to AED 2 million, jail terms up to 15 years, and confiscation of illegal species. Confiscated wildlife will be sent to specialized centres for care or return. The law also clarifies documents like "Falcon Passports" and "Phytosanitary Certificates" and applies uniformly across the UAE, including free zones such as DIFC and ADGM. The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment and customs authorities gain stronger powers to seize forbidden specimens immediately. By prioritizing wildlife cybercrime at the 2026 UN Congress on Crime Prevention, the UAE signals it will block both physical and digital routes exploited by traffickers. This overhaul aims to make the Emirates a tough no-go zone for illegal wildlife trade and a safe haven for endangered species.