UAE Showcases Integrated Digital Model For Combating Human Trafficking, Protecting Victims At UN Crime Prevention Congress
UAE has developed an integrated national model that combines legislation, technology, artificial intelligence, and institutional coordination to protect victims of human trafficking, strengthen early detection and prosecution efforts, and prevent the re-exploitation of victims.
These remarks were shared by Abdulrahman Murad Al Blooshi, Vice Chair of the National Committee to Combat Human Trafficking (NCCHT), during a side event titled "Combating Trafficking in Persons in the Digital Age: Harnessing Artificial Intelligence and Information Technology in the Prevention, Suppression, and Punishment of Trafficking in Persons," held at the 15th United Nations Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice – Abu Dhabi 2026.
The session was organized by the UAE with support from the UNODC Office for the Gulf Cooperation Council Region.
Al Blooshi explained that the UAE's approach prioritizes human dignity and is structured around five key pillars: prevention, prosecution, punishment, victim protection, and international cooperation.
He noted that the UAE was an early adopter in the region, acceding to the Palermo Protocol, and has since enhanced its legal and institutional frameworks to address evolving crime forms.
Furthermore, he highlighted the NCCHT's 2025–2027 Action Plan, which integrates modern technologies into victim protection, data collection and analysis, and law enforcement capacity-building for handling electronic evidence.
The plan also encompasses digital awareness campaigns and post-rehabilitation victim follow-up programs.
Al Blooshi emphasized the significance of Federal Decree-Law No. (34) of 2021 On Countering Rumors and Cybercrimes, which established a legal framework for digital evidence and enhanced its evidentiary value in criminal proceedings. This law supports efforts to track and prosecute offenders while preventing evidence tampering.
He also showcased the UAE's Smart National Referral Mechanism System for Combating Human Trafficking, which connects 14 national ministries and entities, aiding approximately 200 officials and specialists. Artificial intelligence technologies power the system, analyzing data, identifying patterns, and enabling early risk detection.
The system also features dedicated notification mechanisms for authorities when cases involve women, children, or people of determination, ensuring timely interventions.