The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is making significant strides in combating human trafficking and protecting victims. As part of its ongoing efforts, the country has developed a comprehensive national framework focusing on legislative updates, enhanced judicial processes, inter-agency collaboration, and the integration of modern technologies to address this pressing issue. This initiative is grounded in a commitment to uphold human dignity and reinforce the rule of law.
Comprehensive National Approach
In light of World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, observed annually on 30 July, the UAE is showcasing its persistent efforts to tackle one of the most dangerous transnational crimes. The national system established aims to enhance prevention, protection, criminal prosecution, and international cooperation to adapt to the ever-evolving tactics of trafficking, especially those associated with digital spaces and cyber fraud.
This approach has gained momentum with the expansion of the National Committee to Combat Human Trafficking, which now comprises 23 entities, including government institutions, public prosecutors, and civil society organisations. This diversified membership aims to strengthen coordination and unify efforts in the fight against this crime.
A Commitment to Justice and Human Rights
His Excellency Abdullah Sultan bin Awad Al Nuaimi, Minister of Justice and Chair of the National Committee, emphasised that since its foundation, the UAE has established a steady commitment to justice, humanity, and respect for human rights. Highlighting an ethos of tolerance and diversity, he stated that human dignity remains a central pillar of the nation’s developmental journey.
On this occasion, themed “Together We Break the Trap of Fraud,” Al Nuaimi reiterated the nation’s steadfast dedication to confronting human trafficking—one of the most critical organised crimes threatening individual security. He noted that combating this issue requires reinforced international cooperation and integrated national efforts to protect victims and pursue perpetrators.
Al Nuaimi also pointed out that the UAE recognised the complexities of human trafficking early on. As such, the country has adopted a comprehensive approach that encompasses prevention, protection, punishment, and legal pursuit, while continuously enhancing legislative and institutional tools to keep pace with new crime patterns.
Judiciary Focused on Human Dignity
Mohammed Hamed Al Badi Al Dhaheri, President of the Federal Supreme Court, remarked that World Day Against Trafficking in Persons serves not only as an official occasion but also as a profound reminder of the inalienable human dignity that cannot be compromised. He highlighted that combatting this crime aligns with the UAE’s national agenda, which prioritises the rule of law and human rights.
He assured that the Supreme Court strives to ensure that every judgment regarding trafficking cases centres on safeguarding human dignity while delivering significant deterrents to offenders. The court provides legal safeguards to protect victims’ rights throughout all stages of the litigation process, reflecting the country’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and an efficient judicial system.
Utilising Technology and AI in Combatting Trafficking
According to Lieutenant General Ahmed Saif bin Zaitoun Al Mehairi, the Commander-in-Chief of Abu Dhabi Police, combatting human trafficking is a top priority in ensuring community safety and protecting human rights. He affirmed that Abu Dhabi Police continues its preventive efforts in alignment with the UAE’s overarching strategy to form a holistic framework against this borderless crime, focusing on victim protection and human rights enhancement.
He further highlighted the significance of the theme for World Day Against Trafficking in Persons 2026, which is “Caught in the Trap of Fraud.” This theme draws attention to new tactics employed by criminal networks to lure and exploit victims through fraudulent means, often linked to cyber crimes, financial fraud, and money laundering.
Al Mehairi stressed the importance of raising public awareness and enhancing cooperation among local and international entities to tackle these sophisticated crime patterns. Furthermore, he advocated for the use of modern technologies and artificial intelligence in enhancing monitoring, analysis, and early detection capabilities.
Integrated Support Services for Victims
Saeed Al Zadjali, Head of the Shelter Management Department at the Family Care Authority, underscored the UAE’s establishment of a comprehensive protection system for individuals needing care and support. This system ensures specialised services that are tailored to meet the unique needs of each case, prioritising human dignity and privacy.
Al Zadjali explained that recognising early indicators of exploitation is crucial in mitigating the risks of human trafficking before they escalate. Many trafficking scenarios begin with seemingly legitimate opportunities, making public awareness the first line of defence against exploitation. She urged vigilance regarding signs of potential victimisation, such as restricted freedom, isolation, control over personal documents, or experiencing threats or coercion.
Timely reporting of suspicious cases is essential to providing the necessary protection to victims, she asserted, encouraging individuals to seek help from relevant authorities without hesitation, as prompt intervention can greatly influence the safety of at-risk persons.
Moreover, the Authority delivers specialised human care services from the moment a case arrives at the designated centre, deploying a multidisciplinary team to devise recovery plans that address psychological, health, and social aspects, thereby enabling victims to regain stability.
A Model for Combating Human Trafficking
The Union for Human Rights has affirmed that the UAE continues to establish itself as a leader in the fight against human trafficking, underpinned by a national system that integrates legislation, justice, protection, modern technology, and institutional cooperation. The recent update of the Federal Law No. (24) of 2023 concerning the combat against human trafficking has strengthened the national legal framework and intensified penalties for offenders while expanding victim protections.
Additionally, the launch of a national smart system for referring victims of human trafficking, aimed at speeding up the identification and referral processes to appropriate authorities, represents a significant enhancement in the toolbox for confronting this crime. This initiative complements the establishment of shelters, care facilities, psychological assistance, and reintegration programmes.
The establishment of specialised courts in Abu Dhabi to handle human trafficking cases marks a crucial step in enhancing targeted justice and improving the management of these cases while pursuing criminal networks effectively. This advancement is particularly essential given the complexities surrounding trafficking in the context of modern technology and digital platforms.