31-07-2025
UAE Launches AI System to Combat Human Trafficking
Home » Latest news » UAE Launches AI System to Combat Human Trafficking
The United Arab Emirates has announced the launch of a new Smart National Referral Mechanism System to support victims of human trafficking. The announcement was made by the National Committee to Combat Human Trafficking (NCCHT) on July 30. The date also marked the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons.
The NCCHT also revealed the launch of its official website. Both initiatives were introduced during an official ceremony held at the Ministry of Justice headquarters in Abu Dhabi. The event was held under the patronage of Abdullah Sultan bin Awad Al Nuaimi, Minister of Justice and Chairman of the NCCHT.
The minister was present at the event along with members of the Committee, representatives of diplomatic missions, and senior officials from the Ministry of Justice.
In his keynote address, the minister emphasized that the UAE continues to prioritize the fight against human trafficking. He noted that the UAE's approach is guided by a humanitarian vision and its commitments to international conventions.
The UAE became a party to the UN Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons in 2006. The protocol supplements the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organised Crime. Since then, the country has introduced a national anti-trafficking law and developed a strategy to address the issue.
During the ceremony, the minister also announced the National Anti-Human Trafficking Action Plan 2025–2027. The plan is based on an integrated strategy that aims to: Eliminate the root causes of human trafficking
Pursue and prosecute perpetrators
Strengthen protection and rehabilitation services for victims
The new Smart National Referral Mechanism System is part of this strategy. It is the first of its kind in the region and uses artificial intelligence to support coordination between entities.
According to the Ministry of Justice, the system creates a digital profile for each victim once a case is reported. It automates data entry and routes the case to the relevant authorities for action. This includes sheltering, investigation, and legal procedures.
The system also includes: Geolocation tracking to identify the location of victims
Real-time data sharing between government entities
Complete documentation of all case-handling steps
Officials reported that the system connects more than 11 national entities through a unified digital platform. It is also aligned with the UAE Government's Zero Bureaucracy Program.
The aim is to streamline protection procedures and accelerate the referral process for victims of human trafficking.
The NCCHT noted that the system and the new national plan are part of the UAE's broader effort to combat human trafficking through technology, data, and international cooperation.
