Federal Decree-Law No. 2 of 2025 – A Single, Stronger Force Against Narcotics

On July 29, 2025, the President of the United Arab Emirates issued Federal Decree-Law No. (2) of 2025, establishing the National Anti-Narcotics Authority (NDEA). This law represents a strategic move to unify and strengthen national efforts against narcotics. By creating a central federal authority, it aims to streamline policy implementation, enhance coordination among federal and local entities, and ensure consistent enforcement across the UAE. The decree-law was published in the Official Gazette No. 804 dated July 30, 2025, and comes into effect on January 1, 2026.

Key Definitions and Scope

The law begins by defining critical terms that guide its interpretation. “Narcotics” are defined in line with Federal Decree-Law No. (30) of 2021, encompassing psychotropic substances controlled under UAE law. “Addiction” is described as a condition resulting from narcotics use that impairs physical or psychological health and affects decision-making regarding abstinence. These definitions, specified in Article 1, provide clarity and ensure a uniform understanding of the law’s application across all enforcement and administrative actions.

Establishment and Mandate of the Authority

The National Anti-Narcotics Authority is established as a federal entity affiliated with the UAE Cabinet. Its responsibilities include developing national strategies, drafting regulations, monitoring narcotics-related activities, and coordinating enforcement across the country. The Authority is empowered to inspect individuals, goods, and transportation channels to prevent the entry or exit of narcotic substances. It is also tasked with maintaining a centralized national database to facilitate information sharing among relevant authorities (Articles 2 and 4). This centralization is designed to enhance monitoring, intelligence gathering, and inter-agency coordination.

Leadership and Governance

The law provides a clear governance structure. The President of the Authority oversees strategic direction and ensures that its objectives are aligned with federal policy. The Director General manages day-to-day operations, executing strategies and coordinating among departments. This separation of strategic oversight and operational management ensures accountability, efficiency, and effective resource utilization (Articles 5 and 6).

Judicial Powers and Enforcement

One of the most significant aspects of the law is granting judicial police powers to the Authority’s personnel. This allows them to investigate offenses, make arrests, and enforce narcotics regulations. By providing these powers, the Authority is positioned as an active enforcer rather than merely a supervisory or advisory body. Such empowerment is essential for combating drug trafficking and other narcotics-related crimes effectively (Article 11).

Inter-Agency Cooperation and Chemical Regulation

The law mandates cooperation between the NDEA and all relevant federal and local authorities. Collaboration is essential for comprehensive enforcement and prevention efforts. In addition, the law includes provisions for regulating chemical precursors used in the production of narcotics. This anticipates and addresses emerging risks, ensuring that illicit drug production is curtailed at the source (Articles 4 and 12).

Repeal of Conflicting Legislation

To maintain a coherent legal framework, the law repeals any prior legislation or provisions inconsistent with its objectives. This ensures clarity and legal authority for the Authority’s actions, eliminating conflicts or ambiguities that could hinder effective enforcement (Article 14).

Impact and Implementation

The creation of the NDEA is expected to significantly enhance the UAE’s capacity to combat drug trafficking, monitor and rehabilitate users, and protect public health. Centralizing responsibilities under a federal authority allows for faster decision-making, more efficient resource allocation, and better enforcement of narcotics laws. By aligning national measures with international best practices, the UAE strengthens its position as a nation committed to public safety and the rule of law.

Conclusion

Federal Decree-Law No. (2) of 2025 establishes a robust institutional and operational framework to combat narcotics. Through the creation of the National Anti-Narcotics Authority, the UAE ensures centralized oversight, strategic coordination, and empowered enforcement capabilities. With clear mandates, judicial powers, and inter-agency collaboration, the law equips the UAE to address both current and emerging challenges in narcotics control, safeguarding public health and security.