Laws and Regulations

The UAE Drugs Law, Federal Decree-Law No. 30/2021, precisely delineates narcotic substances and elucidates the serious legal ramifications tied to their possession, utilization, or distribution. This all-encompassing legislation categorizes narcotic substances into different schedules, taking into account their potential for harm and abuse, and stipulates penalties for those found in violation.

Prohibited Activities

Engaging in activities associated with narcotics and psychotropic substances, such as import, export, manufacture, transport, production, possession, and acquisition, is explicitly prohibited by the law. Exceptions are made for controlled scientific or medical purposes under the oversight of relevant scientific authorities. Any other use of these substances is strictly forbidden as per the UAE Drug Law.

Penalties for Drug Possession

The possession, abuse, or personal use of specific substances can result in significant legal consequences according to the UAE Drugs Law.
1-First-Time Offenders (Article 41):

• Individuals discovered abusing, possessing, or personally using substances listed in Schedules 1, 2, and 5, or any prohibited plants outlined in Schedule 4, may encounter a minimum penalty of three months imprisonment or a fine ranging from AED 20,000 to AED 100,000.

2-Second-Time Repeat Offense within 3 Years:

• For a repeat offense within three years following the initial act, more severe penalties come into play. Offenders could face imprisonment for a minimum of six months and fines ranging from AED 30,000 to AED 100,000.

3-Third-Time or More Offenses:

• Committing the same crime for the third time or beyond results in imprisonment for at least two years and a fine not less than AED 100,000.

Substances in Schedule 1 and Schedule 4 (Article 42): Abusing or personally using substances specified in Item 29 of Schedule 1 or any plant outlined in Item 8 of Part II, Schedule 4, results in a minimum imprisonment of three months or fines ranging from AED 10,000 to AED 100,000.

Substances in Schedules 3, 6, 7, and 8 (Article 43): Abusing or personally using narcotics listed in Schedules 3, 6, 7, and 8 without authorization leads to a penalty of three months' imprisonment or fines between AED 20,000 to AED 100,000.

Unspecified Substances (Article 44):
Even substances not explicitly named in the New Drugs Law but causing sedation or mental harm can incur penalties. Offenders may be subject to imprisonment for up to six months or a fine ranging from AED 20,000 to AED 100,000.

Additionally, Article 45 of the UAE Drugs Law provides the court with the discretion to mandate the imprisonment of first-time offenders in an addiction treatment and rehabilitation unit instead of imposing penalties.

For more understanding of the Laws or clarity for your enquiries, please feel free to get In touch with SALC Team.