Inside UAE’s health-first fight against drug addiction led by NRC

Abu Dhabi: As the world marks International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking on June 26, the UAE is reaffirming its commitment to combating substance abuse through a holistic, science-driven and compassionate approach. At the heart of this mission is the National Rehabilitation Center (NRC) in Abu Dhabi – a leading institution that is playing a vital role in prevention, treatment, research, and reintegration.

Speaking to Gulf News, Yousef Altheeb Alketbi, CEO of the NRC, underscored how the UAE’s national strategy is closely aligned with the centre’s vision: treating addiction not as a crime, but as a chronic, complex health condition that requires professional care and social support.

“The UAE’s approach to addressing drug use and addiction is both comprehensive and forward-thinking. It places strong emphasis on prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, reintegration, and raising public awareness, which closely reflect the focus of our work at NRC,” said Alketbi.

Founded in 2002, the NRC is more than a treatment centre, Alketbi noted. It serves as a “national platform” for care, research, policy support, and capacity-building, working in close collaboration with education and health sectors, law enforcement, and international partners.

A recent milestone that marks the centre’s excellence is its three-year accreditation from CARF International, received in January 2025. This global recognition covers detox, inpatient and outpatient services, highlighting NRC’s adherence to the highest standards in rehabilitation. The centre also continues to serve as a WHO Collaborating Centre for substance use prevention and treatment.

NRC’s experts have observed shifting patterns of substance use, particularly among young people. While traditional narcotics remain present, there is a marked increase in synthetic drugs and misuse of prescription medications.

To address these evolving challenges effectively, we continue to refine and strengthen our strategies. Early detection and surveillance systems have been enhanced to monitor emerging trends in substance use more accurately,” Alketbi said.
The NRC lab, certified by the UN Office on Drugs and Crime, helps identify emerging substances and make informed clinical decisions. Also, in-house research and partnerships with international health organisations ensure that prevention and treatment efforts are evidence-based and globally aligned, while remaining culturally relevant to the UAE and the wider region.

Reflecting a global shift toward treating addiction through a public health lens, the UAE has redefined its approach – recognising addiction as a health issue that warrants treatment and rehabilitation, not punishment.
“The NRC plays a central role in advancing this public health-based approach. Through its evidence-based treatment services, prevention programmes, and reintegration efforts, NRC works to ensure that individuals affected by addiction receive the support they need in a dignified and nonjudgmental environment,” Alketbi said, noting NRC’s campaigns and training programmes aim to reduce stigma and encourage people to seek help.

While addiction recovery remains a deeply human journey, NRC is cautiously and thoughtfully integrating technology into its operations. The centre is already leveraging data analytics to monitor treatment outcomes and spot trends, while exploring AI-driven tools for early risk detection and personalised care plans. The NRC has automated its pharmacy services, streamlining medication management, easing staff workload, and enhancing overall patient care.

“Honestly, it’s about finding the right balance between embracing innovation and staying true to the personal, compassionate care that addiction recovery demands,” Alketbi underlined.