President Sheikh Mohamed issued a decree establishing a National Anti-Narcotics Authority in the UAE.
The agency has the responsibility of combating drug trafficking and smuggling, as well as overseeing the rehabilitation and treatment of addicts.
The authority, chaired by Sheikh Zayed bin Hamad bin Hamdan Al Nahyan, will also create and implement strategies addressing narcotics and related crimes.
Liaising with other agencies to tackle the sale of illegal drugs will also be a remit of the authority, state news agency Wam reported on Sunday.
"The National Anti-Narcotics Authority will undertake a comprehensive set of vital mandates, reflecting the UAE’s strategic vision to bolster community security, combat various drug-related crimes, and ensure an effective legislative and operational environment to curb this phenomenon," Wam said.
"A key mandate includes tackling drug trafficking by tracking and dismantling smuggling and distribution networks, co-ordinating with security and judicial authorities to ensure offenders are brought to justice in accordance with the nation’s laws."
The body, which is an independent federal entity affiliated to the UAE Cabinet, will work closely with other national agencies to prevent illegal drugs being smuggled into or leaving the country.
Another facet of the authority's remit will be dealing with chemicals used for non-medical purposes. This involves developing licensing mechanisms, trading and storage conditions and customs clearance procedures to ensure the lawful use of chemicals and preventing their misuse in illegal activities.
