The Ministry of Interior (MoI) has launched the National Anti-Doping Platform (NPAD) in collaboration with the Ministry of Sport and the National Anti-Doping Agency, creating a single digital system for managing Therapeutic Use Exemptions (TUEs), which allow athletes to use substances or medications otherwise prohibited in sport.
The platform lets applications be submitted, reviewed, approved and tracked electronically, with automated notifications and checks of data and professional licences through the relevant government authorities. It also builds a national database of athletes and healthcare practitioners to support data analysis, risk preparedness and the integrity of competitions.
The official launch follows about a year of operational use, during which procedures were tested and refined with partners. That period helped automate key processes, simplify TUE handling and improve data exchange between entities.
Dr. Mai Ahmed Sultan Al Jaber, Chairperson of the National Anti-Doping Agency, said the platform handles the entire process digitally, from attaching medical reports to final approval. She said this cuts reliance on paper forms, limits errors and improves accuracy. It also helps doctors check prohibited substances and find permitted alternatives, so athletes keep access to the care they need while avoiding accidental violations.
Saeed bin Tuwair Al Suwaidi, Assistant Undersecretary for Security Affairs at the Ministry of Interior, said the platform strengthens coordination among government, security, sports and health entities. Lamia Al Sabousi of the Ministry of Sport said it standardises exemption procedures and clarifies requirements for athletes, medical staff and sports organisations.
Dr. Al Jaber urged federations, clubs, organisations and medical professionals to join the system. Services are available at npad.ae, and the call centre can be reached on 600566635.
News Source: WAM
