Abu Dhabi Police launches National drug prevention strategy

The General Command of Abu Dhabi Police has adopted world-class methods and best practices in combating drug abuse, aiming to curb its spread and safeguard the community. Through the dedicated efforts of its anti-narcotics officers, Abu Dhabi Police is tackling the dangers of drugs with professionalism, utilizing modern tools and strengthening awareness and community engagement, as part of a comprehensive national strategy.

In a statement marking the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, held this year under the theme “Awake Families, Safe Communities,” Al-Muhairi praised the UAE’s wise leadership for recognizing the vital importance of unified security, social, and educational efforts to combat this serious issue. He underscored the central role of the family as the first line of protection and the key influencer of children’s behavior.

He added: “At Abu Dhabi Police, we operate under comprehensive strategies focused on awareness and education, in addition to enforcement and control. We work closely with our partners across government and community organizations to foster a safe environment free of harmful substances.”

On this occasion, he extended his appreciation to all teams involved in combating drugs and urged everyone to take responsibility for building informed families capable of protecting children from the traps of addiction. “The safety of society begins with the awareness of its individuals,” he concluded. “May God protect our nation from all harm and guide our security forces in fulfilling their noble mission.”

The critical role of families

'Forsa Amal' (Chance of Hope) initiative

He also commended the community’s positive response to the “Forsa Amal” (Chance of Hope) initiative, which supports prevention efforts and reinforces social stability. The service enables individuals to access treatment confidentially through the Abu Dhabi Police website or smart application (www.adpolice.gov.ae or https://forsa.adpolice.gov.ae/).

'Drive safely' – A multilingual awareness platform

Abu Dhabi Police continues to implement the “Drive Safely” initiative, one of the most prominent national preventive projects, now adopted at the federal level. The campaign aims to foster legal and behavioral awareness around the risks of drug use. Integrated into the Emirates Driving School curriculum, it has reached more than 1.5 million people since its launch.

In collaboration with key partners, the Anti-Narcotics Directorate made the initiative available in five languages: Arabic, English, Urdu, Pashto, and Malayalam. A version in sign language was also developed in cooperation with the Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination, reflecting a strong commitment to inclusivity and accessibility.

Colonel Mohammed Salim Al Ameri, Deputy Director of the Anti-Narcotics Division in Al Ain Region, noted that the initiative uses interactive methods, including real-life case studies, simplified legal concepts, and quick assessments to engage learners. As part of the campaign, driving license applicants are educated on the dangers of drug use through mandatory curriculum content, ensuring that awareness becomes an essential part of the licensing process. This initiative has had a positive impact on developing police strategies to fight drug abuse.

National Awareness Forum: 'Informed families, safe communities'

In June 2025, Abu Dhabi Police organized a series of events under the “Drug Prevention Forum” as part of national efforts to raise awareness. Hosted by the Ministry of Interior under the theme “Informed Families, Safe Communities”, the forum drew wide participation from families, students, public and private sector employees, and various federal, local, and academic institutions.

The forum emphasized the family’s role in drug prevention, addressing themes such as effective communication, positive monitoring, and building trust between parents and children. It also covered modern parenting skills that equip children to resist negative influences.

Activities included interactive virtual reality experiences, counseling sessions with psychiatric and social experts, and youth-led podcasts discussing the role of psychological environments in drug prevention. Creative spaces for children—such as drawing and interactive theater—were also part of the initiative, reflecting Abu Dhabi Police’s recognition of early preventive education as a long-term and effective solution.

Community partnerships strengthen awareness goals

Abu Dhabi Police has bolstered cooperation with numerous federal and local entities to maximize outreach, including the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Health and Prevention, Ministry of Interior, the Public Prosecution, and rehabilitation and psychological treatment centers. Partnerships also extend to academic, media, and civil society organizations.

The Anti-Narcotics Directorate noted that these collaborations have led to the launch of joint projects aimed at identifying risky behaviors in students, offering group counseling, organizing youth camps that promote healthy lifestyles, and hosting regular family and community engagement sessions for experience exchange and unified efforts.

The Directorate highlighted the significant impact of these partnerships on the community and commended their role in promoting social responsibility and supporting Abu Dhabi Police’s mission to build a collaborative society capable of protecting individuals from drug risks.

Legislative updates aligned with modern challenges

Abu Dhabi Police has reinforced its awareness initiatives with a flexible and effective legislative framework, supported by Federal Decrees No. 30 of 2021 and No. 53 of 2022. These laws provide a progressive legal system that incorporates a humanitarian approach to dealing with drug users, allowing for rehabilitation instead of criminal prosecution in certain cases. At the same time, they impose stricter penalties on traffickers and exploiters of vulnerable groups.

The legal framework also includes enhanced control over hazardous chemicals and new psychoactive substances, updated testing protocols, and the development of rapid-response systems to detect new substances appearing on global markets.

Pioneering achievements and outstanding initiatives

Abu Dhabi Police reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to leveraging its human, technological, and legislative resources to achieve the overarching national goal of a “Drug-Free Society.” It called on all segments of society—from families to schools, workplaces, and social media users—to actively participate, stressing that every individual has the potential to be a strong line of defense in this fight.

The force also praised the UAE’s milestone achievement in securing membership on the United Nations Commission on Narcotic Drugs for the 2026–2029 term, reinforcing its role as a key player in shaping global drug policy and advancing prevention and treatment strategies. This reflects years of institutional work and strengthens the UAE’s leadership in sharing expertise and pioneering innovative prevention initiatives, particularly in light of the growing threats posed by synthetic and digitally marketed substances.

Abu Dhabi Police concluded by expressing pride in the community’s growing awareness and responsibility, emphasizing that continued success in combating drug abuse requires united efforts and a renewed commitment to the societal and humanitarian values that make the UAE a model of security and stability.