Dubai Police launch drug awareness campaign

Arrests are just one tool police use as the force seeks to emphasise education and rehabilitation

The awareness drive is taking place at four locations in Dubai. 

Dubai Police launched a drug addiction awareness campaign to run during Ramadan.

The initiative is by the Hemaya International Centre at the force's anti-drugs department and is called “protect yourself".

Hemaya runs community programmes about such issues for Dubai Police.

Operating at four locations in Dubai, it aims to spread awareness about the types of drugs, their dangers and ways of protection against addiction.

Visitors to Hemaya stalls at the World Trade Centre, Al Arabi Centre, Al Barsha Mall and Al Warqaa City Mall will be able to get key information about rehabilitation.

“This campaign is part of our strategy to engage with the public, especially with the youth,” said Brig Eid Mohammad Hareb. "Arresting drug dealers should go in line with raising awareness,” he said.

Officers will also explain how drug users who willingly surrender will be spared jail.

“The law aims to protect our youth by making rehabilitation an alternative for prison and a criminal record,” he said.