1.5 million benefit from UAE’s ‘Drive Safely’ anti-drug awareness campaign

Over the past four years, 1.5 million residents across the UAE have taken part in the “Drive Safely” anti-drug initiative—an awareness campaign integrated into driving school curricula and spearheaded by Abu Dhabi Police.

The programme aims to educate new drivers on the dangers of drug use, especially behind the wheel, and has been delivered in multiple languages to reach diverse communities.

Implemented in collaboration with the Emirates Driving Company and Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination, the campaign is part of the official training for driving licence applicants in Abu Dhabi. It features modules in Arabic, English, Urdu, Pashto, and Malayalam.

Brigadier Taher Ghareeb Al Dhaheri, Director of the Anti-Narcotics Directorate at Abu Dhabi Police, said “Drive Safely” is more than a public awareness effort—it’s a national framework designed to prevent drug abuse, protect lives, and foster collaboration between authorities and communities.

The initiative includes special provisions for people of determination. His Excellency Abdullah Al Humaidan, Secretary-General of the Zayed Higher Organization, highlighted efforts to provide sign language interpretation and tailor content to the deaf community, enhancing their knowledge of traffic laws and drug-related risks.

Khalid Amer Al Shemeili, CEO of Emirates Driving Company, commended Abu Dhabi Police for embedding the initiative into the national driver’s education system. He called the campaign a model for how early intervention and education can lead to safer roads and healthier lives.

Colonel Mohammed Salim Al Amri, Deputy Director of the Anti-Narcotics Department in Al Ain, added that the number of participants reflects the success of sustained efforts to integrate anti-drug messaging into all corners of society.

“The 1.5 million beneficiaries are proof of our commitment to year-round public protection and awareness,” he said.

The “Drive Safely” initiative continues to serve as a powerful reminder of how road safety and drug prevention can—and must—go hand in hand.