Post by : Badri Ariffin

The United Arab Emirates has rolled out a robust law aimed at combating the illicit sale of narcotics without prescriptions, intensifying regulations on pharmacies, medical professionals, and licensed establishments throughout the nation. This initiative seeks to prevent unauthorized access to controlled substances and bolster the country’s drug-safety protocols.

According to the revised law, any healthcare provider or pharmacy engaged in the sale or issuance of narcotics absent the required prescriptions will incur a minimum penalty of Dh 50,000 and may be sentenced to imprisonment for up to five years. Officials have emphasized that such repercussions are applicable to both individuals and businesses involved in illegal distribution.

The legislation outlines stringent provisions for the deportation of foreign individuals convicted of drug offenses. Deportation will be obligatory, except in two cases: if the convicted is the spouse or a first-degree relative of a UAE national at the time of the crime.

Newly established rules govern the possession, storage, and management of narcotic and psychotropic substances, which are permitted solely for scientific or medical applications. Licenses will be granted only to qualified institutions such as accredited healthcare facilities, research institutes, chemical analysis laboratories, and pharmaceutical manufacturing or distribution companies. All such operations will be closely monitored by the relevant authorities.

In a consequential administrative change, all drug-related issues will now be managed by the Emirates Drug Establishment, a dedicated division designed to ensure consistent oversight and effective enforcement across the UAE.

Furthermore, the new legislation lays the groundwork for creating addiction treatment and rehabilitation centers within both public and private healthcare systems, illustrating a comprehensive strategy that incorporates prevention, regulation, and recovery assistance.

The recent actions taken by the UAE reveal a commitment to an assertive national policy against illegal drug operations, enhancing public safety and elevating operational standards within the healthcare sector.

#Global News