The UAE has a zero-tolerance policy for recreational use of drugs. Federal Law by Decree No. 30 of 2021 on Combating Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances criminalises production, import, export, transport, buying, selling, possessing, storing of narcotic and psychotropic substances unless done so as part of supervised and regulated medical or scientific activities in accordance with the applicable laws. The UAE police has dedicated departments to deal with drugs' issues.

Drug prevention

Abu Dhabi Government focuses on strong familial ties, close bonding within family members and the responsibility of parents to instil values in children as a way to prevent people from turning to abusing drugs.

Drug rehabilitation

National Rehabilitation Center (NRC) in Abu Dhabi undertakes research on issues related to drug-abuse and offers rehabilitation and treatment to drug abusers.

Read about:

• Parent's Guide to Drug Abuse and Prevention (in Arabic PDF, 7.40 MB) - UAE's Ministry of Interior
• International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, 26 June – UN Organization