UAE Expert Highlights Drug Networks Targeting Youth via Social Media and Encrypted Apps
UAE adviser warns drug traffickers use digital platforms to reach youth, urging families to boost awareness and communication.
Drug traffickers in the UAE are increasingly using social media, encrypted messaging applications, and electronic payment methods to target young people, according to a national anti-narcotics adviser. This shift in tactics demands enhanced digital awareness and preventive measures to protect youth from drug-related risks.
Dr Abdullah Al Khayat, adviser to the National Drug Enforcement Authority, emphasized that drug promoters are adapting their strategies to the ways young people communicate online. He stated that prevention efforts must evolve accordingly, noting that "prevention is no longer a supplementary option; it has become the first line of confrontation." The warning was issued during a press conference held at the Dubai Police Officers’ Club on November 12, ahead of the upcoming Anti-Narcotics and Organized Crime Conference scheduled for November 17 as part of the World Police Summit 2026.
Dr Al Khayat explained that drug networks have moved beyond traditional distribution methods. By leveraging digital platforms and encrypted apps, these networks expand their reach while complicating law enforcement efforts to trace their activities. Protecting youth requires helping them identify online attempts to lure them into drug use, alongside equipping parents with the knowledge and tools to maintain informed supervision and foster open conversations at home.
He also called for the integration of prevention programs into education, sports, and community activities through innovative approaches tailored to engage young audiences effectively.
Fahad Abdullah Haikal, spokesperson for the National Drug Enforcement Authority, highlighted that combating drug abuse is a collective responsibility extending beyond law enforcement agencies. He stressed the importance of cooperation among security forces, health and educational institutions, social organizations, media, and especially families, which serve as the primary defense against drug threats.
At the press conference, Haikal outlined the authority’s role in developing policies and strategies, coordinating efforts at federal and local levels, pursuing trafficking networks, and supporting treatment and rehabilitation programs. He noted that the authority’s participation in the upcoming conference demonstrates its commitment to collaborative national and international efforts, aiming to produce practical recommendations to enhance prevention and enforcement measures.
Brigadier Ahmed Al Suwaidi, deputy director of Dubai Police’s General Department of Anti-Narcotics, said the conference will address evolving challenges faced by agencies combating drug trafficking. Topics include international cooperation, interception of cross-border shipments, dismantling trafficking operations, and tracing illicit financial flows. Discussions will also cover the health impacts of drugs and the potential application of artificial intelligence in counter-narcotics work.
Al Suwaidi mentioned that the conference program includes specialist workshops and plans for community partnerships, such as memoranda of understanding with Erada Center for Treatment and Rehabilitation and GEMS schools. These partnerships reflect a comprehensive approach linking enforcement with education, treatment, and prevention.
Mohammed Jamal Al Tamimi, head of programs at the World Police Summit, explained that the conference will unite experts across the spectrum of drug response—from combating trafficking and dismantling networks to rehabilitation and prevention. Emerging challenges like synthetic drugs and artificial intelligence use in investigations will also be discussed. He emphasized that the event aims to foster effective partnerships and strengthen cooperation against drug problems that no country can address alone.
Dr Al Khayat concluded by stressing that coordinated responses must be complemented by actions in everyday environments, particularly within families. He underscored the importance of informed families, open dialogue, and prevention programs designed with an understanding of young people’s perspectives to enhance protection against evolving drug network tactics.
What this means for you
- Families should increase awareness and maintain open communication with youth about the risks of drug use.
- Parents need to be informed about digital platforms and encrypted apps that traffickers use to target young people.
- Prevention programs are being encouraged to integrate into schools, sports, and community activities to better reach young audiences.
- Combating drug abuse requires cooperation among families, security agencies, health, education, and social organizations.