President Sheikh Mohamed has issued a federal decree establishing the National Anti-Narcotics Authority, a new independent body tasked with leading the UAE’s efforts to combat drug-related crimes.
The agency will focus on addressing drug trafficking and smuggling, while also overseeing the treatment and rehabilitation of addicts. It will be chaired by Sheikh Zayed bin Hamad bin Hamdan Al Nahyan and operate under the UAE Cabinet as an independent federal entity.
According to the state news agency WAM, the authority has been granted a wide-ranging mandate to strengthen national efforts against narcotics.
“The National Anti-Narcotics Authority will undertake a comprehensive set of vital mandates, reflecting the UAE’s strategic vision to bolster community security, combat various drug-related crimes, and ensure an effective legislative and operational environment to curb this phenomenon”, WAM said.
The agency will collaborate with security and judicial institutions to track and dismantle drug smuggling and distribution networks.
“A key mandate includes tackling drug trafficking by tracking and dismantling smuggling and distribution networks, co-ordinating with security and judicial authorities to ensure offenders are brought to justice in accordance with the nation’s laws".
The authority is also responsible for coordinating with other national bodies to prevent the entry and exit of illegal drugs through the UAE’s borders.
In addition to tackling narcotics, the agency will regulate chemicals that could be misused for non-medical purposes. This includes establishing licensing procedures, setting conditions for trade and storage and overseeing customs clearance processes to ensure lawful use.
The creation of the authority marks a significant step in the UAE’s ongoing campaign to enhance public safety, reduce drug abuse and develop a cohesive strategy across law enforcement, health services and regulatory frameworks.