President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has issued a federal decree-law to establish the National Anti-Narcotics Authority. The move comes alongside the appointment of Sheikh Zayed bin Hamad bin Hamdan Al Nahyan as the Authority’s Chairman.
This newly created federal entity will operate independently under the UAE Cabinet. Its creation aims to enhance national efforts to combat narcotics and align federal and local strategies. By doing so, the UAE seeks to protect the well-being of its citizens and strengthen community safety across the country.
A Unified Strategy to Combat Drug Crime
Replacing the General Department of Anti-Narcotics within the Ministry of Interior, the Authority will focus on national drug policy. It will develop and enforce comprehensive strategies, legislation, and policies to counter narcotics and dismantle trafficking networks. These efforts will involve close coordination with both federal and local agencies, ensuring streamlined action and unified enforcement.
Among its critical duties, the Authority will address drug trafficking by monitoring smuggling routes and identifying distribution networks. In collaboration with law enforcement and judicial authorities, it will ensure swift legal action against offenders under UAE law. Additionally, it will craft forward-looking policies to address emerging patterns in drug-related crime, adapting legislation accordingly and submitting these measures to the Cabinet for review and approval.
To further support its mission, the Authority will establish legal frameworks that reflect international best practices. This approach ensures that the UAE remains resilient against evolving challenges in narcotics prevention.
Strengthened Monitoring and Control Measures
In a proactive effort to prevent illegal substances from crossing national borders, the Authority will collaborate with security agencies at land, sea, and air ports of entry. Through surveillance and inspections, it will track individuals, goods, and modes of transport suspected of involvement in drug activities. These actions are aligned with national legislation and serve to enhance the country’s readiness to counter such threats.
Moreover, the Authority will introduce new regulations concerning chemical precursors that may be used in the illicit production of drugs. It will work alongside concerned agencies to establish licensing procedures, storage conditions, and customs clearance policies. These will be submitted to the Cabinet, ensuring legal oversight and reducing the risk of chemical misuse.
Centralised Database to Boost Coordination
To reinforce cooperation between federal and local authorities, the Authority will build and manage a centralised national database. This system will be accessible to all stakeholders involved in narcotics control. Consequently, it will enable real-time information exchange, faster responses to crises, and improved implementation of national policies. The database is expected to play a pivotal role in strengthening the UAE’s capacity to address narcotics-related challenges effectively.
