United Arab Emirates

In the UAE, safeguarding for children and vulnerable adults is increasingly prioritised within both federal legislation and national development agendas. The Wadeema Law (Federal Law No. 3 of 2016) provides comprehensive protection for children against abuse, neglect, and exploitation, and mandates reporting responsibilities for professionals. For adults, including women, older individuals, and people with disabilities, protections are laid out in laws such as the Federal Law on Protection from Domestic Violence (2021) and the Law on the Rights of People of Determination. However, cultural norms surrounding privacy, honour, and family structure can influence help-seeking behaviours. Many individuals may prefer to address personal matters within the family or community, rather than through formal intervention. Emirati students or long-term residents from the UAE studying in the UK may have been exposed to safeguarding frameworks but may still feel hesitant to raise personal issues unless confidentiality and discretion are strongly assured.

Mental health in the UAE has gained increasing recognition in recent years, especially among young adults. Government initiatives like the National Strategy for Wellbeing 2031 and school-based mental health programmes reflect growing public awareness. Nevertheless, stigma around mental illness persists, particularly in more conservative or traditional families where mental health issues may be viewed as personal weakness or a source of shame. Access to psychological services is improving, particularly in urban areas like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, but many students may still be unfamiliar with or hesitant to use counselling services. Students from the UAE studying in the UK may experience academic pressure, cultural adjustment, or isolation, but may prefer private coping strategies or faith-based support over formal therapy. UK university professionals can support these students by offering confidential, culturally sensitive, and clearly communicated mental health services, with emphasis on wellbeing, academic performance, and self-care. Services that include discreet access points—such as drop-in hours, online tools, or culturally aware peer support—can help reduce stigma and foster trust.