Abu Dhabi:The Ministry of Interior, in collaboration with the Ministry of Sport and the National Anti-Doping Agency, has launched the National Anti-Doping Platform (NPAD) in the UAE. This initiative aligns with the country's vision for innovation and digital transformation, aiming to establish a comprehensive national framework to protect athletes from doping.
According to Emirates News Agency, the NPAD serves as a unified digital system managing Therapeutic Use Exemptions (TUEs), allowing athletes to use substances or medications otherwise prohibited in sports. The platform facilitates electronic submission, review, approval, and tracking of TUE applications, while sending automated notifications and verifying data through relevant government authorities. It also creates a national database for athletes and healthcare practitioners, enhancing data analysis, decision-making, and operational efficiency.
The platform's official launch follows a year of operational testing, during which key anti-doping processes were automated, simplifying TUE applications and improving data exchange. Saeed bin Tuwair Al Suwaidi, Assistant Undersecretary for Security Affairs at the Ministry of Interior, emphasized the platform's role in bolstering coordination among government, security, sports, and health entities to protect athletes and maintain sports integrity.
Dr. Mai Ahmed Sultan Al Jaber, Chairperson of the National Anti-Doping Agency, highlighted the platform as a vital step in advancing the national anti-doping program's technical and administrative procedures. The digital channel manages the entire TUE application process electronically, reducing reliance on paper forms and manual data entry, thereby enhancing accuracy and minimizing procedural errors.
Dr. Al Jaber also noted the platform's benefits for medical professionals, who can access information on prohibited substances and verify permitted treatment alternatives, ensuring athletes receive necessary medical care without infringing anti-doping regulations. The centralized database supports faster, more accurate application tracking and procedural efficiency, while verifying data and professional licenses ensures that medical personnel meet required licensing conditions.
The first year of operation allowed for testing and refinement of procedures, garnering positive feedback from medical personnel and improving procedural efficiency. Dr. Al Jaber called for wider participation from sports federations, clubs, organizations, and medical professionals to leverage digital services and promote clean sport.
Lamia Al Sabousi, Assistant Undersecretary for the Sports Regulation Sector at the Ministry of Sport, reiterated the platform's role in standardizing medical exemption procedures and providing digital services that streamline application tracking and clarify regulatory requirements. The Ministry supports initiatives to develop the sports sector and promote athlete awareness of doping dangers, ensuring a safe environment and upholding sports integrity.
The National Anti-Doping Platform is accessible at npad.ae, with support available through its call center at 600566635.