Author: NRC_User

ABU DHABI, 6th November, 2025 (WAM) — The National Rehabilitation Center (NRC) concluded its participation in the Al Dhafra Hospitals Fourth Health Forum 2025, held from 4th to 6th November in Madinat Zayed under the theme Community Health Begins with the Family. The event was organised by PureHealth under the patronage of the Court of the Ruler’s Representative in the Al Dhafra Region.

As a strategic partner, the NRC reaffirmed its commitment to raising awareness about the risks of substance use and showcased its preventive, therapeutic, and rehabilitative programmes based on the latest scientific standards and smart technologies in addiction treatment.

Yousef Altheeb Alketbi, Chief Executive Officer of the NRC, said the participation reflects the Centre’s mission to strengthen community engagement and share expertise with healthcare institutions. He said, “The Al Dhafra Hospitals Fourth Health Forum provides an ideal platform to highlight the NRC’s innovative experiences in prevention and rehabilitation while expanding collaboration within the UAE’s healthcare ecosystem.”

He added that the NRC applies World Health Organization (WHO)-approved treatment protocols and continues to develop comprehensive behavioural, psychological, medical, and social therapy programmes to ensure the quality and sustainability of its services.

During the forum, the NRC presented research papers, including From Withdrawal to Recovery: The Role of Psychopharmacotherapy in Addiction Treatment by Dr. Ibrahim Khafagy, and Bringing a Beacon of Hope to the Western Region by Dr. Mohammed Abdulsamad. Both papers underscored the Centre’s role in advancing recovery practices and extending rehabilitation services across the UAE, including Al Dhafra.

The NRC also held interactive awareness sessions such as Life Skills and Correcting Misconceptions, led by Fatima Al Hamedi, Head of the Department of Clinical Psychiatry, and Hasan Al Hammadi, Project Manager, to promote healthy life skills and prevent risky behaviours.

Additionally, a session titled Positive Parenting to Prevent Substance Use was presented by Al Hamedi at the Senior Citizens’ Council, focusing on strengthening family awareness and supportive parenting practices.

The NRC’s participation reflects its continuous efforts to promote a healthy, resilient society and expand access to quality rehabilitation and prevention services across the nation.

The National Rehabilitation Center (NRC) in Abu Dhabi has successfully concluded its “Summer Forum 2025,” held from July 14 to 24 under the theme “Together in Shaping a Conscious and Responsible Generation.” The event was marked by broad community participation and enthusiastic engagement from both youth and parents.

The forum attracted a robust turnout from its target audience, with attendees actively participating in a diverse range of programs designed to build essential personal and social skills. This strong engagement reflects the community’s growing interest in awareness and development initiatives that empower future generations.

The program featured interactive workshops and awareness sessions, including group activities focused on teamwork and decision-making, informative discussions on the dangers of smoking and prevention strategies, and practical first aid and fire safety training conducted in partnership with relevant authorities. A highlight of the forum was the specialized session titled “Artificial Intelligence: Real Solutions for Today’s Problems,” which aimed to familiarize participants with the fundamentals and practical applications of AI. Additional sessions explored national identity and authentic Emirati values, complemented by an educational visit to the National Archives to deepen participants’ understanding of the UAE’s history and promote responsible citizenship.

Commenting on the success of the forum, Yousef Altheeb Al Ketbi, CEO of the National Rehabilitation Center, said, “The overwhelming response to this forum demonstrates the community’s dedication to equipping its youth with the knowledge and practical skills they need through innovative and tailored approaches. We remain committed to delivering high-quality initiatives that align with the aspirations of future generations and contribute to building a conscious, cohesive society capable of meeting future challenges.” He further emphasized that the event aligns with the goals of the “Year of the Community” 2025, declared by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE.

Participants and their parents expressed strong appreciation for the initiative, highlighting its unique blend of education, awareness, and entertainment, which successfully created an environment conducive to creative thinking and community bonding.

The Summer Forum continues to exemplify the NRC’s ongoing commitment to advancing community partnerships, raising awareness among youth, and enhancing their personal development through diverse and impactful initiatives.

The Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD) organised a celebratory event on the occasion of World Inmate Day, in line with its ongoing efforts to promote the concept of restorative justice and highlight pioneering initiatives for the rehabilitation of inmates and their reintegration into society.

The event was attended by several strategic partners and entities supporting rehabilitation programs.

On this occasion, Counselor Yousef Saeed Al Abri, Undersecretary of the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department, emphasised that celebrating World Inmate Day reflects the Department’s commitment to the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, Chairman of the Presidential Court, and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department, which aims to enhance the role of correctional facilities as platforms for personal development.

He pointed out the Department’s focus on implementing comprehensive rehabilitation programs that address psychological, social, and vocational aspects, contributing to character building and enabling inmates to follow a positive path after completing their sentences.

The official celebration at the Department’s headquarters began with a documentary film showcasing real-life experiences of several inmates, highlighting their journeys within correctional centres and the success stories made possible by the integrated rehabilitation programs, reflecting the impact these initiatives have had on rebuilding inmates’ personalities and motivating positive change.

The event also featured a presentation of initiatives and projects launched since the beginning of 2025 in partnership with the Authority of Social Contributions – Ma’an and Hayat Post-Care Association.

Key initiatives included the Digital Creative Studio, which provides training in advanced graphic design and video editing, as well as the support of a Fine Arts Centre and programming training courses aimed at equipping inmates with modern digital skills.

Rehabilitation programmes also included the implementation of a Quran Memorization Program that benefited over 500 male and female inmates, in addition to the launch of the “Travel Bag” project, which provides inmates with essential supplies to help them begin their new lives upon release.

The event further highlighted the contributions of the “Faraj Fund”, which provided Dh1.2 million in financial aid to secure the release of financially distressed inmates in the first half of the year.

Moreover, Higher Colleges of Technology initiatives provided job-market training benefiting 70 inmates, while the General Authority for Islamic Affairs, Endowments, and Zakat organised religious lectures and Quran competitions for more than 600 inmates.

Prior to the main celebration, internal activities were held at Al Wathba and Al Ain correctional centres, including artistic and theatrical performances, cultural competitions, the honouring of graduates from the job readiness program, and academically outstanding inmates. The program also featured creative contributions and success stories from inmates, illustrating the positive transformation achieved through rehabilitation efforts.

At the conclusion of the event, the Judicial Department honoured several partners and institutions supporting rehabilitation projects, including: the General Directorate of Penal and Correctional Institutions at the Ministry of Interior, the Authority of Social Contributions – Ma’an, Hayat Post-Care Association, Faraj Fund, Higher Colleges of Technology, the National Rehabilitation Center, Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority, the General Authority for Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat, and the Emirates Red Crescent.

The honoured entities expressed their pride in their constructive partnership with Abu Dhabi Judicial Department and affirmed their commitment to continuing joint efforts to develop impactful programs that make a real difference in the lives of inmates and open new horizons for a stable future.

Abu dhabi: The Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD) organised a celebratory event to mark World Inmate Day, aligning with its ongoing mission to promote restorative justice and highlight its pioneering initiatives for inmate rehabilitation and reintegration into society. The event saw the participation of several strategic partners and entities dedicated to supporting these rehabilitation programs.

According to Emirates News Agency, Counselor Yousef Saeed Al Abri, the Undersecretary of the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department, stated that the celebration of World Inmate Day underscores the Department’s dedication to the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan. This vision seeks to enhance the role of correctional facilities as catalysts for personal development. Al Abri highlighted the Department’s commitment to implementing comprehensive rehabilitation programs targeting psychological, social, and vocational aspects, aiding in character development and enabling inmates to pursue positive paths po
st-release.

The event, held at the Department’s headquarters, commenced with a documentary film showcasing the real-life experiences of inmates and the success stories facilitated by integrated rehabilitation programs. These stories reflect the transformative impact of these initiatives in rebuilding inmates’ personalities and fostering positive change.

Key initiatives and projects launched since the beginning of 2025 were presented, in collaboration with the Authority of Social Contributions – Ma’an and Hayat Post-Care Association. Notable programs included a Digital Creative Studio for training in graphic design and video editing, a Fine Arts Centre, and programming courses to equip inmates with digital skills. Additionally, a Quran Memorization Program benefited over 500 inmates, and the “Travel Bag” project provided essential supplies to aid inmates’ transition upon release.

The event also highlighted the contributions of the “Faraj Fund,” which allocated AED 1.2 million to secure the release of finan
cially distressed inmates in the first half of the year. Furthermore, Higher Colleges of Technology initiatives offered job-market training for 70 inmates, and the General Authority for Islamic Affairs, Endowments, and Zakat organised religious lectures and Quran competitions for more than 600 inmates.

Prior to the main celebration, internal activities at Al Wathba and Al Ain correctional centres included artistic performances, cultural competitions, and the honouring of graduates from the job readiness program and academically outstanding inmates. These programs featured creative contributions and success stories, illustrating the positive transformations achieved through rehabilitation efforts.

The event concluded with the Judicial Department honouring several partners and institutions supporting the rehabilitation projects. Recognised entities included the General Directorate of Penal and Correctional Institutions at the Ministry of Interior, the Authority of Social Contributions – Ma’an, Hayat Post-Care
Association, Faraj Fund, Higher Colleges of Technology, the National Rehabilitation Center, Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority, the General Authority for Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat, and the Emirates Red Crescent. These organisations expressed pride in their partnership with ADJD and reaffirmed their commitment to developing impactful programs that significantly benefit inmates and pave the way for a stable future.

Held in collaboration with 25 national and international partners, the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) has launched its Pre-Departure Week during an official ceremony attended by His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence.

The program aims to prepare 300 students from ADEK Scholarship programs for their upcoming academic journeys abroad. The program equips students with the skills, knowledge, and mindset needed to represent the UAE with pride and thrive as global citizens.

The Pre-Departure Week offers a holistic preparation experience covering academic readiness, cultural adaptation, psychological resilience, and essential life skills. Sessions include leadership development, financial literacy, personal safety abroad, and wellbeing strategies to help students navigate life and studies in their host countries confidently.

Program partners include: the Ministry of Defense, Department of Government Enablement, Abu Dhabi Police, Sandooq Al Watan, National Library and Archives, National Rehabilitation Center, Family Care Authority, Abu Dhabi Public Health Center, Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an, General Authority of Islamic Affairs (AWQAF), Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy (AGDA), 42 Abu Dhabi, International Centre for Culinary Arts, International Etiquette and Protocol Academy, and the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority, along with nine foreign embassies contributing their expertise and programming.

The Pre-Departure Week is structured around 11 core pillars, developed based on insights from students, parents, and industry partners to provide comprehensive support beyond academic preparation. These pillars cover national identity and cultural preservation, guiding students on how to represent the UAE with integrity, as well as understanding immigration laws and global mobility to ensure they are aware of their rights and responsibilities abroad.

The program also addresses health and safety protocols, including infectious disease prevention and personal wellbeing management, while equipping students with knowledge of professional etiquette and diplomatic conduct to prepare them for diverse social and professional environments. Together, these pillars ensure students are fully prepared to integrate confidently into their host communities and excel academically and personally.

Beyond theory, the program includes hands-on workshops such as interactive simulations and concludes with a global culinary class at ICCA Abu Dhabi, where students gain practical cooking skills and nutrition knowledge essential for confident, independent living abroad.

To date, ADEK has awarded 2,190 scholarships, enabling students to pursue higher education across more than 20 countries. These figures demonstrate the UAE’s commitment to nurturing future generations of global citizens by ensuring they excel academically, integrate confidently into their new environments, and uphold the nation’s values abroad.

Abu Dhabi, UAE – Held in collaboration with 25 national and international partners, the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) has launched its Pre-Departure Week during an official ceremony attended by His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence.

The program aims to prepare 300 students from ADEK Scholarship programs for their upcoming academic journeys abroad. The program equips students with the skills, knowledge, and mindset needed to represent the UAE with pride and thrive as global citizens.

The Pre-Departure Week offers a holistic preparation experience covering academic readiness, cultural adaptation, psychological resilience, and essential life skills. Sessions include leadership development, financial literacy, personal safety abroad, and wellbeing strategies to help students navigate life and studies in their host countries confidently.

Program partners include: the Ministry of Defense, Department of Government Enablement, Abu Dhabi Police, Sandooq Al Watan, National Library and Archives, National Rehabilitation Center, Family Care Authority, Abu Dhabi Public Health Center, Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an, General Authority of Islamic Affairs (AWQAF), Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy (AGDA), 42 Abu Dhabi, International Centre for Culinary Arts, International Etiquette and Protocol Academy, and the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority, along with nine foreign embassies contributing their expertise and programming.

The Pre-Departure Week is structured around 11 core pillars, developed based on insights from students, parents, and industry partners to provide comprehensive support beyond academic preparation. These pillars cover national identity and cultural preservation, guiding students on how to represent the UAE with integrity, as well as understanding immigration laws and global mobility to ensure they are aware of their rights and responsibilities abroad.

The program also addresses health and safety protocols, including infectious disease prevention and personal wellbeing management, while equipping students with knowledge of professional etiquette and diplomatic conduct to prepare them for diverse social and professional environments. Together, these pillars ensure students are fully prepared to integrate confidently into their host communities and excel academically and personally.

Beyond theory, the program includes hands-on workshops such as interactive simulations and concludes with a global culinary class at ICCA Abu Dhabi, where students gain practical cooking skills and nutrition knowledge essential for confident, independent living abroad.

To date, ADEK has awarded 2,190 scholarships, enabling students to pursue higher education across more than 20 countries. These figures demonstrate the UAE’s commitment to nurturing future generations of global citizens by ensuring they excel academically, integrate confidently into their new environments, and uphold the nation’s values abroad.

About Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK)

The Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) is the Education Sector regulator across the Emirate. It oversees and provides services throughout a learner’s journey from early education to university and beyond. It also champions inclusivity for People of Determination in the mainstream schooling system and by providing specialized schools.

Across Early Childhood and K-12, ADEK licenses and regulates nurseries and private schools in Abu Dhabi while also legislating, mandating, and managing its own Charter Schools and 2 schools for People of Determination.

ADEK also annually provides distinguished Abu Dhabi students with full scholarships and support to study at the best universities around the world. In addition, the Department audits and enhances the delivery of Higher Education in Abu Dhabi, attracting Higher Education Institutions to open the required programs or schools that serve Abu Dhabi’s needs while championing a student and faculty-friendly ecosystem in the Emirate.

With a vision to Empower Education. Empower Minds. Empower the Future, ADEK recognizes that every learner is different, and a diversity of teaching methods are essential for students to succeed. To that effect, ADEK partners with stakeholders to enable a great education system to flourish in Abu Dhabi and nurture future-ready graduates who have the 21st century skills required to sustain and carry forward Abu Dhabi’s vision.

Abu Dhabi: The Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) has launched its Pre-Departure Week, a comprehensive program aimed at preparing 300 students from its scholarship programs for academic journeys abroad.

The launch ceremony was attended by His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence.

Held in collaboration with 25 national and international partners, the initiative is designed to equip students with the skills, knowledge, and mindset required to thrive in global academic environments and proudly represent the UAE.

The Pre-Departure Week provides a holistic preparation experience that includes academic readiness, cultural adaptation, psychological resilience, and key life skills. The sessions cover leadership development, financial literacy, personal safety abroad, and wellbeing strategies, ensuring students are ready to handle both educational and everyday challenges in their host countries.

Program partners include prominent local and federal entities such as the Ministry of Defense, Department of Government Enablement, Abu Dhabi Police, Sandooq Al Watan, National Library and Archives, and the National Rehabilitation Center.

Other key contributors are the Family Care Authority, Abu Dhabi Public Health Center, Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an, General Authority of Islamic Affairs (AWQAF), and the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy (AGDA).

Further support comes from 42 Abu Dhabi, the International Centre for Culinary Arts (ICCA), the International Etiquette and Protocol Academy, and the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority. In addition, nine foreign embassies are contributing valuable expertise and specialized programming to enhance the experience for participating students.

The program is guided by 11 core pillars, developed through feedback from students, parents, and industry partners, to offer a support system that extends beyond traditional academic preparation.

These pillars include national identity and cultural preservation, teaching students to represent the UAE with dignity and pride, and understanding immigration laws and global mobility, ensuring awareness of their legal rights and responsibilities while abroad.

The training also incorporates modules on health and safety, including infectious disease prevention and personal well-being management, and sessions on professional etiquette and diplomatic conduct to prepare students for engagement in diverse social and professional environments.

Beyond theory, the initiative integrates hands-on workshops and interactive simulations, culminating in a global culinary class at ICCA Abu Dhabi, where students acquire practical cooking and nutrition skills, essential for confident and independent living during their time overseas.

To date, ADEK has awarded 2,190 scholarships, enabling students to pursue higher education across more than 20 countries. This milestone reflects the UAE’s enduring commitment to developing future generations of global citizens, individuals who not only succeed academically but also contribute meaningfully to their communities while upholding national values abroad.

The National Rehabilitation Center in Abu Dhabi is launching the “Summer Forum 2025” as part of its awareness program dedicated to youth and adolescents. The program aims to develop personal skills and consolidate national and social values ​​​​during the summer vacation, in cooperation with several government agencies and educational institutions.

The forum will continue for two consecutive weeks from July 14 to 24, under the slogan “Together to Create a Conscious and Responsible Generation.” It includes a variety of lectures, workshops, and interactive activities aimed at enhancing health and cultural awareness and instilling positive attitudes among participants.

Yousef Al Dheeb Al Ketbi, CEO of the National Rehabilitation Center, emphasized the importance of this forum in enabling youth to gain practical experience and new knowledge using innovative methods that suit their interests and aspirations. He pointed out that the program was designed to achieve a balance between education and entertainment, and to provide an environment that stimulates creative thinking and builds personal and societal identity.

Al Ketbi said: “The forum includes key topics, including: Teamwork, the art of decision-making, and learning about the dangers of smoking and prevention methods will be discussed, in addition to awareness sessions on dealing with negative people, first aid, and fire drills, in cooperation with the relevant authorities.

He added that the program keeps pace with technological developments through a specialized session entitled “Artificial Intelligence: Realistic Solutions for Today’s Problems.” The forum also includes lectures on national identity and authentic Emirati values, in addition to an introductory visit to the National Archives to learn about the mechanisms of archiving and preserving historical documents.
Al Ketbi indicated that the forum will conclude its activities with a graduation ceremony on Thursday, July 24, during which parents are invited to attend the closing events and share their children’s achievements and experiences.

A second chance at life

Rebuilding life step by step

The National Rehabilitation Center (NRC) has issued a strong call to parents, highlighting 11 warning signs that could indicate a child’s involvement with drugs. The Center stressed the importance of early intervention, clear communication, and seeking help without fear of stigma.

In a statement, the NRC explained that these signs often appear as subtle changes in behaviour, physical appearance, or environment. “Recognising the signs early can be life-changing,” the Center said. “Seeking help is a brave step, not a weakness.”

Three groups of warning signs: The NRC outlined the 11 red flags, grouped into three categories:

Sudden behavioural changes:

• Withdrawal from family life
• Lying or deceptive behaviour
• Declining academic performance
• Intense mood swings

Visible physical symptoms:

• Sudden weight loss
• Red or dilated eyes
• Constant fatigue and loss of appetite
• Hand tremors or excessive sweating

Suspicious objects and environmental cues:

• Presence of unusual items like burnt spoons or foil pieces
• Disappearance of money or valuables
• Strange smells in clothing or bedrooms

The NRC underlined that parents have a vital role in protecting their children. “Every word counts,” the statement read, advising parents to have calm, supportive conversations about drugs, listen attentively, and avoid threats or humiliation.

Persistent misconceptions

The Center warned against common myths:

“Cannabis is natural and non-addictive.” (Truth: Cannabis can lead to psychological disorders and addiction.)
“Sedatives are harmless.” (Truth: Misuse can damage the brain and nervous system.)
“I can stop anytime.” (Truth: Addiction can start with just one use and rewire the brain.)

Underlying risk factors

According to the NRC, several hidden factors can push young people toward substance use:

• An unstable family environment
• Lack of emotional support
• Harsh or overly lenient parenting
• Marital or parental conflict
• Absence of clear rules
• External influences such as peer pressure, boredom, and lack of public awareness also increase the risk.
• The deep impact of addiction

The NRC highlighted the severe health consequences of drug use, including:

• Heart and blood pressure disorders
• Digestive issues and chronic fatigue
• Nervous exhaustion and risk of infectious diseases
• Liver and kidney failure, seizures, and sudden death

Socially and economically, addiction leads to financial strain, crime, unemployment, and family breakdown.

Tips to keep teens safe online

To help parents protect their children from drug risks on social media, the NRC shared nine tips:

• Set clear rules about online behaviour
• Avoid harsh punishments
• Listen with respect
• Know your child’s friends
• Support their goals
• Never share personal information online
• Avoid unknown contacts
• Don’t share family problems or photos

Never send money or addresses to strangers

Beware of online purchases

The NRC also warned against buying drugs or supplements online without medical advice.

Confidential, protected help

The Center urged anyone concerned to call its free hotline at 8002252. Treatment is confidential and legally protected, with no liability. The NRC also provides advanced tools such as apps and video consultations to support patients and families on their recovery journey.

“Addiction can be overcome,” the NRC concluded. “Help is available, and recovery is always possible.”