Dubai authorities on Saturday called on doctors and mental health specialists to volunteer their time and expertise to support public well-being during Iran’s continuing attacks on the UAE.
The emirate’s Community Development Authority has joined forces with Dubai Health and the Dubai Health Authority to set up a hotline to help the community navigate challenging times.
The free service will connect callers to qualified specialists who provide confidential psychological “first aid” and guidance.
The Dubai Community Mental Health Support Hotline – on 800 506 – is part of the Itma’en mental well-being service.
It comes as the Emirates and other Gulf countries come under daily attack from Iranian missiles and drones.
Under the scheme, volunteers will play a vital role by listening to callers, providing initial emotional support and directing those needing further intervention to the appropriate organisations.
It is open to qualified and licensed professionals in medicine, nursing, psychology, social work, or related disciplines. Training is provided.
Students and trainees in relevant fields may also participate under professional supervision. Volunteers are expected to demonstrate foundational knowledge of psychological first aid, and strong communication skills, as well as committing to the training and adhering to the protocols governing the hotline.
Hessa Buhumaid, director general of Dubai’s Community Development Authority, said engaging qualified professionals and specialists in community-based support initiatives plays a vital role in reinforcing society’s ability to respond to psychological pressures and challenges. It also fosters the values of solidarity, compassion and collective responsibility that define Dubai’s community.
Dr Alawi Alsheikh Ali, director general of the Dubai Health Authority, said that opening the door for volunteers to join the Itma’en mental well-being service reflects Dubai’s commitment to strengthening community care systems and expanding channels for delivering specialised services in this field.
Dr Amer Sharif, chief executive of Dubai Health and president of Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, said volunteering is a deeply rooted value in the UAE community and a genuine expression of giving back.
“It plays an important role in strengthening social responsibility and supporting the well-being of society,” said Dr Sharif.
The CDA is inviting qualified mental health professionals to register through the Dubai Now app and join the network of community support volunteers.
UAE support network
The Department of Health Abu Dhabi recently launched a 24/7 mental health support hotline in association with Sakina, a dedicated mental health platform in Abu Dhabi, to help residents at this time of regional instability.
Authorities are encouraging anyone who’s struggling to reach out and seek help, as they’re offering confidential psychological support via qualified mental health professionals over the phone at 800 725 462.
Lighthouse Arabia, a well-known mental health clinic in Dubai has been organising free online sessions for its community, such as one on navigating ongoing uncertainty and heightened stress, as well as a parenting workshop with a live question-and-answer session the same day.
It is offering practical, research-backed tools to help people regulate.
For more on the mental health support systems in place in the Emirates, read our dedicated guide here