Category: News

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.”

Abu Dhabi: The Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD) has organized a special event to mark World Inmate Day, observed annually on July 18, underscoring its commitment to restorative justice and the reintegration of inmates through pioneering rehabilitation initiatives.

The event brought together several strategic partners and stakeholders who support inmate rehabilitation programs across the emirate. Counselor Yousef Saeed Al Abri, Undersecretary of the ADJD, addressed attendees and stressed that celebrating World Inmate Day aligns with 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.

Yousef Saeed Al Abri reiterated that correctional facilities play a vital role as platforms for personal growth, rehabilitation, and reintegration, supporting inmates in building meaningful lives post-release. Al Abri highlighted the department’s approach to implementing holistic rehabilitation programs that address psychological, social, and vocational dimensions, helping inmates develop positive behaviors and pursue productive paths once their sentences are completed.

ADJD celebrates World Inmate Day

The official celebration began with a powerful documentary that featured the real-life stories of inmates who have transformed within correctional centers. Their accounts illustrated how the department’s integrated rehabilitation programs have successfully contributed to rebuilding character and motivating long-term change.

The event showcased several initiatives introduced in 2025, in collaboration with the Authority of Social Contributions – Ma’an and Hayat Post-Care Association. These initiatives include the launch of the Digital Creative Studio, which trains inmates in advanced graphic design and video editing, as well as the establishment of a Fine Arts Center and programming courses that provide inmates with essential digital skills for the modern job market.

The Quran Memorization Program, which has benefited over 500 male and female inmates, was also highlighted, along with the ‘Travel Bag’ project that equips released inmates with the necessary supplies to start afresh.

Financial support for inmates was another focal point of the event. The Faraj Fund contributed AED 1.2 million ($3,26,708) in the first half of the year to help release financially distressed inmates. Additionally, the Higher Colleges of Technology facilitated job readiness training for 70 inmates, while the General Authority for Islamic Affairs, Endowments, and Zakat organized religious lectures and Quran competitions that reached more than 600 inmates.

World Inmate Day with focus on rehabilitation

Ahead of the main celebration, cultural and creative programs were held at Al Wathba and Al Ain correctional centers. These activities included artistic and theatrical performances, cultural contests, the honoring of graduates from the job-readiness program, and recognition of academically outstanding inmates. Inmates also shared personal success stories and creative works, reflecting the depth of the positive transformation achieved through sustained rehabilitation efforts.

Concluding the event, the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department honored several partners and institutions that have played a significant role in supporting rehabilitation programs. Among those recognised were 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 honored organizations expressed pride in their continued collaboration with ADJD. They reaffirmed their dedication to developing impactful rehabilitation programs that foster positive change and create opportunities for a more stable and hopeful future for inmates.

Dubai Misdemeanour Court fined a 27-year-old Arab woman Dhs5,000 for abusing narcotics.

The case came to light when she called the police and ambulance for help after feeling severely unwell and unable to open her apartment door.

Upon arrival, authorities found her in an abnormal state, raising suspicions of drug use, so she was taken to police station, where a urine sample was collected for analysis.

The Dubai Police Forensic Laboratory report confirmed she was under the influence of psychotropic substances, specifically crystal meth.

During interrogation, she confessed to using the drug for the first time, stating she had no prior drug-related convictions.

Based on the forensic report, urine sample analysis by the General Department of Forensic Science and Criminology, and her confession, the court fined her Dhs5,000, citing confidence in the evidence and procedures.

The UAE has a zero-tolerance policy for recreational use of drugs. Federal Law by Decree No. 30 of 2021 on Combating Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances criminalises production, import, export, transport, buying, selling, possessing, storing of narcotic and psychotropic substances unless done so as part of supervised and regulated medical or scientific activities in accordance with the applicable laws.

The UAE police have dedicated departments to deal with drugs’ issues.

The UAE Government focuses on strong familial ties, close bonding within family members and the responsibility of parents to instil values in children as a way to prevent people from turning to abusing drugs.

The National Rehabilitation Center (NRC) in Abu Dhabi undertakes research on issues related to drug-abuse and offers rehabilitation and treatment to drug abusers.

The National Rehabilitation Center (NRC) in Abu Dhabi has received a special award called the Three-Year Accreditation from CARF International. CARF is a well-known organization around the world that checks health and human service centers to make sure they provide high-quality care.

This big achievement shows that NRC is fully committed to helping people with addiction through strong and effective treatment programs. To get this accreditation, NRC had to go through a very careful review process done by other professionals in the same field. They checked if NRC follows top international standards—and NRC not only met those standards but even went beyond them.

• Stay informed with the latest news. Follow DXB News Network on WhatsApp Channel
• Thanks to this, NRC is now officially recognized as a top center for addiction recovery in the region.
• The center offers different types of care to people who are trying to stop using harmful substances. Their programs include:
• Detox (helping people safely remove drugs or alcohol from their system)
• Inpatient treatment (where patients stay at the center)
• Outpatient treatment (where patients come for sessions but live at home)
• All of these services aim to support people in their recovery journey.

Yousef Altheeb Alketbi, the CEO of NRC, said:

“This award proves that NRC is serious about giving the best care to every person who comes to us. We make sure each patient is treated with respect and gets care that fits their personal needs.”

CARF’s review process looks at many things such as:

• How effective the treatments are
• The results patients get
• How well the center is managed

NRC passed this review with high marks, showing it is a safe, respectful, and patient-focused place that helps people recover and return to society in a healthy way.

Along with treating addiction, NRC also does advanced research, tries new ways to treat patients, and works with the community. These efforts make NRC a leading center in the region for helping people overcome substance use and live better lives.

ABU DHABI, 11th May, 2025 (WAM) — The National Rehabilitation Centre (NRC) in Abu Dhabi has been awarded a Three-Year Accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (Carf International), a globally recognised independent accreditor of health and human services.

This achievement highlights NRC’s unwavering commitment to excellence in addiction treatment and rehabilitation.

CARF accreditation is awarded to organisations that demonstrate excellence in service delivery through a rigorous peer-review process, ensuring conformance to internationally recognised standards.

The Three-Year Accreditation signifies that NRC has met and exceeded these benchmarks, reinforcing its position as a leading provider of evidence-based treatment and rehabilitation programmes.

The centre’s accredited programmes include detoxification and withdrawal management, inpatient treatment, and outpatient treatment, providing comprehensive care for individuals on their journey to recovery from addiction.

On this occasion, Yousef Altheeb Alketbi, CEO of NRC, expressed pride in this achievement, stating, “This accreditation reaffirms NRC’s dedication to providing world-class treatment and rehabilitation services while upholding the dignity and well-being of every individual in their care. It reflects our commitment to international best practices, ensuring that individuals seeking recovery receive personalised support tailored to their unique needs.”

CARF International’s accreditation process involves a consultative review that evaluates service effectiveness, patient outcomes, and organisational leadership. NRC’s accreditation highlights its success in promoting a safe, ethical, and patient-centred environment that prioritises long-term recovery and social reintegration.

As part of its mission to combat substance use disorders, NRC continues to implement cutting-edge research, innovative treatment models, and community engagement initiatives, further solidifying its role as a regional centre of excellence.

The National Rehabilitation Center (NRC) in Abu Dhabi has been awarded a Three-Year Accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (Carf® International), a globally recognized independent accreditor of health and human services. This achievement highlights NRC’s unwavering commitment to excellence in addiction treatment and rehabilitation.

CARF accreditation is awarded to organizations that demonstrate excellence in service delivery through a rigorous peer-review process, ensuring conformance to internationally recognized standards. The Three-Year Accreditation signifies that NRC has met and exceeded these benchmarks, reinforcing its position as a leading provider of evidence-based treatment and rehabilitation programs.
The center’s accredited programs include detoxification and withdrawal management, inpatient treatment, and outpatient treatment, providing comprehensive care for individuals on their journey to recovery from addiction.
On this occasion, Yousef Altheeb Alketbi, CEO of NRC, expressed pride in this achievement, stating: “This accreditation reaffirms NRC’s dedication to providing world-class treatment and rehabilitation services while upholding the dignity and well-being of every individual in their care. It reflects our commitment to international best practices, ensuring that individuals seeking recovery receive personalized support tailored to their unique needs.

About the National Rehabilitation Center (NRC):

Founded in 2002 through the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the National Rehabilitation Center (NRC) is one of the key centers in the network of hospitals that are governed by The Medical Office, a subsidiary of the PureHealth Group. As the UAE’s leading authority on rehabilitation and addiction treatment, NRC has established itself as a pioneer in this vital area. Recognized by WHO in 2017 as a regional leader, NRC continues to drive innovation in prevention, treatment, and recovery through research, strategic partnerships, and evidence-based solutions in collaboration with government and semi-government entities.

About the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF International):

The Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF International) is an independent, nonprofit accreditor dedicated to advancing service excellence in health and human services worldwide. Through its consultative peer-review process, CARF ensures that accredited organizations adhere to internationally recognized quality standards, enhancing patient outcomes and operational effectiveness.