UAE Mental Health Initiatives
On March 1, 2026, Dubai launched the 'Itma'en' mental well-being service, a free and confidential hotline, while Abu Dhabi introduced its 24/7 'SAKINA' hotline, both providing immediate mental health support to residents across the UAE. As of March 16, 2026, the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) is integrating mental health services into primary healthcare centers for early diagnosis and treatment of conditions like depression and anxiety. These initiatives build upon Federal Law No. (10) of 2023 on Mental Health, which replaced a 1981 law, and the 2022 'Mental Wealth Framework' by the Dubai Health Authority. A 2020 study revealed 57% of the UAE population suffered from at least one mental health disorder, with 56.4% experiencing anxiety and 31.5% depression, highlighting the critical need for these expanded services.
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Track this story2026
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2026
3 updatesThe UAE government, through the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP), is launching a national program to integrate mental health services into primary healthcare centers. This initiative aims for early diagnosis and treatment of common mental illnesses like depression and anxiety. The UAE is also expanding mental health support through various other programs.
Abu Dhabi also introduced its 24/7 'SAKINA' hotline, mirroring Dubai's efforts to provide accessible mental health support. This confidential service offers round-the-clock assistance and counseling to residents, reinforcing the emirate's commitment to mental well-being. The simultaneous launch of these hotlines across major emirates signifies a coordinated national effort to address mental health needs.
Dubai launched the 'Itma'en' mental well-being service, a free and confidential hotline designed to provide immediate support to individuals facing mental health challenges. This service was introduced in response to growing needs, including regional tensions, offering professional guidance and a safe space for callers. It represents a critical step in expanding accessible mental health resources for the community.
2025
1 update
2025
1 updateThe 'Mental Health 360' campaign was launched across the UAE, a nationwide initiative aimed at raising public awareness and reducing the stigma associated with mental health conditions. This campaign utilized various media channels and community events to promote open conversations about mental well-being. It encouraged individuals to seek help and highlighted available resources, fostering a more supportive environment for those struggling with mental health issues.
2024
1 update
2024
1 updateDubai has launched the 'Itma'en' service, offering free and confidential mental health support to all citizens, residents, and visitors. This joint initiative by Dubai Health, the Community Development Authority, and the Dubai Health Authority provides guidance via a hotline, 800506, operating daily from 9 am to midnight. Specialized counselors are available in Arabic and English, with complex cases referred to appropriate medical teams.
via gulfnews.com
2023
1 update
2023
1 updateThe UAE published Federal Law No. (10) of 2023 on Mental Health, a landmark legislation designed to replace an outdated law from 1981. This new law aims to regulate the relationship between psychiatric patients and various parties, ensuring the provision of necessary healthcare according to the highest standards. It focuses on protecting the rights of individuals with mental health conditions, ensuring their dignity, and promoting their integration into society.
2022
1 update
2022
1 updateThe Dubai Health Authority (DHA) launched the 'Mental Wealth Framework', a comprehensive strategy designed to enhance mental well-being across the emirate. This framework focused on prevention, early intervention, and integrated care, aiming to create a supportive ecosystem for mental health. It emphasized community engagement and multi-sectoral collaboration to address mental health challenges effectively.
2020
1 update
2020
1 updateA study conducted in 2020 revealed that a significant portion of the UAE population, specifically 57%, suffered from at least one mental health disorder. Anxiety and depression were identified as the most prevalent conditions, affecting 56.4% and 31.5% of the population respectively. This data underscored the critical need for improved mental health services and highlighted the challenges faced by residents in a rapidly evolving society.
2019
1 update
2019
1 updateThe Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) announced the launch of several digital solutions aimed at advancing mental and psychological care. These innovations included the use of virtual reality technology to help understand schizophrenia, allowing healthcare professionals to gain insights into patients' experiences. This marked a significant step towards integrating modern technology into mental health clinical practices in the UAE.
2017
1 update
2017
1 updateThe Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) developed and the Cabinet issued the National Policy for the Promotion of Mental Health. This policy aimed to elevate mental health services to international standards through an effective system involving various stakeholders. It adopted a human rights-based approach, emphasizing values such as autonomy, participation, empowerment, fairness, acceptance, and integration in mental healthcare.
1991
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