UAE Government Issues Federal Decree-Law Amending Narcotic Drugs And Psychotropic Substances Regulations

The UAE has revised its Federal Decree-Law concerning narcotics and psychotropic substances. This move aims to bolster community safety, uphold justice, and enhance the national framework for drug control. The changes align with recent developments in medical products and narcotics regulation, ensuring adherence to top regulatory, health, and security standards.

Under the new amendments, the Emirates Drug Establishment and its Chairperson now replace references to the Ministry of Health and Prevention in the original law. This change designates the entity as the main authority for regulating medical products in the UAE. Similarly, the National Anti-Narcotics Authority now substitutes mentions of the Ministry of Interior, highlighting its pivotal role in combating drug-related crimes nationwide.

The revised law introduces stricter penalties for pharmacies dispensing narcotic drugs or psychotropic substances without a valid prescription or beyond approved limits. Offending pharmacies face imprisonment of at least five years and fines starting from AED50,000. Such violations are treated as facilitating drug use offenses.

Physicians who prescribe narcotic drugs or psychotropic substances without a licence or medical justification also face increased penalties. The punishment includes imprisonment for a minimum of five years and a fine not less than AED50,000. These actions are considered facilitation offenses, reinforcing strict standards for medical prescriptions.

The amendments empower federal health authorities and private facilities to create specialised units for treating individuals addicted to narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances. The UAE Cabinet will issue detailed regulations governing these units. Local authorities can also establish similar units within their jurisdictions, contributing to a comprehensive national treatment system.

Licences may be granted to qualified entities like health facilities, chemical testing labs, research centres, and medical product manufacturing facilities for handling narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances for scientific and medical purposes. These activities will be under competent authorities' supervision.

Deportation Provisions

The Federal Decree-Law mandates deportation of foreign nationals convicted of narcotics offenses after serving their sentences. However, exceptions exist if the individual is a spouse or first-degree relative of a UAE citizen during the offense or if deportation would harm family stability or deprive necessary care.

Certain plant parts listed in law schedules remain exempt from criminalisation under approved controls. This ensures that scientific research and medical use can continue without legal hindrance while maintaining strict oversight.

This Federal Decree-Law underscores the UAE's dedication to developing a robust national framework against narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances. It integrates deterrence measures with effective treatment options alongside modern health and security practices.

With inputs from WAM