The UAE has unveiled a confidential hotline for reporting drug-related crimes, a new measure introduced by the National Anti-Narcotics Authority (Nana) as part of a wider campaign to curb narcotics in the country. The update was announced during the UAE Government Annual Meetings 2025, with Khaleej Times reporting that informants will be eligible for financial rewards if their information leads to arrests or prevents smuggling attempts.
Sheikh Zayed bin Hamad Al Nahyan, Chairman of Nana, said the authority is rolling out several national initiatives meant to reinforce drug prevention, with heightened focus on educating the country’s youth. He stressed that the UAE established Nana to “unify national efforts to eradicate drugs” and ensure that both government entities and the wider community take part in combating the threat.
A dedicated hotline will operate through a secure system that protects the identity of those who step forward with information. The measure forms part of an expanding framework of awareness and educational programs now being pushed into schools, public spaces, and community centers.
One of the most significant additions is a new school subject called Security and Safety, which will be introduced into primary and secondary curricula. The course will cover accident prevention and harmful behaviors, with the secondary-level modules focusing specifically on the dangers of drug use.
Authorities are also moving to engage young people outside the classroom through the “National Activities Programme.” The initiative aims to draw residents into sports, cultural events, and community hobbies, offering supervised outlets that keep students and families actively involved in positive environments.
Sheikh Zayed highlighted the UAE’s growing role in global anti-narcotics cooperation, noting collaborations with 24 countries that have helped seize large quantities of illegal substances abroad. He also pointed to ongoing digital enforcement efforts, with 2,297 websites and social media accounts promoting drugs already identified and blocked.
Nana’s next phase includes several strategic awareness campaigns designed for all age groups, with priority given to the nation’s youth. Sheikh Zayed said the broader goal is to build a unified system of prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation that protects the UAE from the harms of narcotics.
