NRC leads UAE-wide anti-drug efforts highlighting prevention, community engagement

Al Etihad

14 hours ago

26 June 2025 00:48
KHALED AL KHAWALDEH (ABU DHABI)Hailed worldwide for its progressive stance to drug-related issues, the UAE has long been committed to combating substance abuse through wide-reaching, community-focused initiatives alongside an advanced policing and security apparatus. Leading the country's efforts on addiction prevention and treatment is the National Rehabilitation Centre (NRC) in Abu Dhabi. For the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking (World Drug Day), marked annually on June 26, the NRC has rolled out a series of awareness initiatives nationwide, aiming to drive home the idea of prevention as being the most impactful way to combat drug abuse. Yousef Altheeb Alketbi, CEO of NRC, emphasised the day's significance as both a symbolic reminder and a strategic call to action.
'World Drug Day serves as a powerful reminder of the complex challenges surrounding addiction and the shared responsibility to address them through compassion, education, and evidence-based action,' Alketbi told Aletihad ahead of the occasion. 'At the NRC, this day underscores our commitment to both individuals and communities impacted by substance use. While addiction is real, so is recovery and no one should have to face it alone.'Among the flagship initiatives this year is the Drug Prevention Forum at Galleria Mall, as well as a collaboration with ADNOC, which has facilitated the display of anti-drug messages at 100 fuel stations across the country. Moreover, digital billboards at major hubs like Al Qana are reinforcing these messages, reaching thousands of residents and visitors every day.'The UAE's approach is a model of unity and shared responsibility,' said Alketbi. 'Prevention becomes most effective when it is community-driven, relevant, and inclusive; transforming awareness into meaningful action.'
Supporting Long-term Healing Beyond awareness, the UAE continues to evolve in its handling of addiction and rehabilitation. There is a notable shift in public perception, with more families actively seeking help and engaging in recovery processes, Alketbi said. 'The emphasis is increasingly on holistic, family-inclusive care that reduces stigma and supports long-term healing,' he noted.'There is growing public awareness, and more individuals and families are actively engaging in recovery processes.'The NRC's rehabilitation model remains firmly rooted in evidence-based international practices.In 2024 alone, the organisation conducted over 107 awareness activities, targeting both public and private sectors under the national campaign titled 'From Prevention to Recovery.'The centre has also developed specialised training programmes for educators, enabling early detection of substance use among students. More than 60 teachers have been trained so far in 2025, with a robust follow-up mechanism to ensure continued impact.A growing area of focus for the NRC is addressing co-occurring mental health issues, especially among young people. Through digital outreach, community workshops, and life-skills programmes, the centre is hoping to empower individuals to make healthier choices and resist substance use.'Addiction is not just a health issue; it's a societal challenge that requires coordinated and compassionate solutions,' said Alketbi.
'World Drug Day helps us recommit to that vision, not just for today, but every day.'