UAE Mental Health Initiatives
The UAE government, through the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP), launched a national program to integrate mental health services into primary healthcare centers on March 16, 2026, aiming for early diagnosis and treatment of common mental illnesses. As of March 30, 2026, Dubai Healthcare City launched the 'DHCC Mental Wellbeing Community Talks Programme,' and Aspris Healthcare is offering specialized outpatient mental health treatment for young people in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The UAE also introduced the 'Mental Health 360' initiative in January 2026, integrating mental well-being into nationwide healthcare services, alongside the UAE Federal Mental Health Law, effective May 30, 2024, which protects the rights of individuals with mental health conditions. Additionally, Dubai and Abu Dhabi launched 24/7 mental health hotlines, 'Itma'en' and 'SAKINA,' respectively, on March 1, 2026, providing confidential support and counseling to residents. All Dubai Health Authority-regulated insurance plans are now required to include mandatory basic mental health coverage, encompassing outpatient psychiatric consultations, as of 2026.
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March 2026 — 7 developments
Dubai Healthcare City has launched the 'DHCC Mental Wellbeing Community Talks Programme' to foster awareness and dialogue on mental health.
Dubai Healthcare City has launched the 'DHCC Mental Wellbeing Community Talks Programme' to foster awareness and dialogue on mental health. Additionally, Aspris Healthcare is offering specialized outpatient mental health treatment for young people in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, contributing to the expanding network of support services across the UAE.
The UAE launched the 'Mental Health 360' initiative in January 2026, integrating mental well-being i…
The UAE launched the 'Mental Health 360' initiative in January 2026, integrating mental well-being into nationwide healthcare services to reduce stigma and encourage early intervention. The UAE Federal Mental Health Law, effective May 30, 2024, protects the rights of individuals with mental health conditions and imposes obligations on employers. Dubai is also set to launch a self-help app utilizing AI for mental resilience strategies.
Al-Futtaim Health began offering free mental health consultations across the UAE through its HealthHub clinics on March 18, 2026.
Al-Futtaim Health began offering free mental health consultations across the UAE through its HealthHub clinics on March 18, 2026. This initiative is part of broader efforts to enhance mental well-being in the country.
All Dubai Health Authority-regulated insurance plans are now required to include mandatory basic men…
All Dubai Health Authority-regulated insurance plans are now required to include mandatory basic mental health coverage, encompassing outpatient psychiatric consultations, as of 2026. This regulatory change ensures greater access to essential mental health services.
The UAE government, through the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP), is launching a national program to integrate mental health services into primary healthcare centers.
The 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.
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.
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.
June 2025 — 1 developments
The 'Mental Health 360' campaign was launched across the UAE, a nationwide initiative aimed at raisi…
The '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.
June 2024 — 1 developments
Dubai has launched the 'Itma'en' service, offering free and confidential mental health support to all citizens, residents, and visitors.
Dubai 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.
October 2023 — 1 developments
The UAE published Federal Law No.
The 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.
March 2022 — 1 developments
The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) launched the 'Mental Wealth Framework', a comprehensive strategy designed to enhance mental well-being across the emirate.
The 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.
January 2020 — 1 developments
A study conducted in 2020 revealed that a significant portion of the UAE population, specifically 57%, suffered from at least one mental health disorder.
A 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.
January 2019 — 1 developments
The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) announced the launch of several digital solutions aimed at advancing mental and psychological care.
The 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.
January 2017 — 1 developments
The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) developed and the Cabinet issued the National Policy for the Promotion of Mental Health.
The 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.