Dubai has launched a new mental wellbeing support service called Itma’en. The free helpline is available to citizens, residents and visitors across the emirate.
Mental health support is becoming more accessible in the UAE with the launch of Itma’en, a free and confidential mental wellbeing support service introduced in Dubai.
The initiative was launched through a partnership between Dubai Health, the Community Development Authority (CDA) and the Dubai Health Authority (DHA). It is designed to provide immediate emotional support to people experiencing personal, social, emotional or psychological challenges.
Available through a dedicated helpline, the service offers a safe and private space for anyone seeking guidance, regardless of age, nationality or background.
As conversations around mental wellbeing continue to grow across the UAE, the launch marks another step in Dubai’s efforts to strengthen community health and improve quality of life for everyone living in or visiting the emirate.
What is Itma’en and who can use it?
Itma’en, which translates to “rest assured,” is a mental wellbeing support service that allows people to speak confidentially with trained specialists over the phone.
The service is available to:
- UAE citizens
- Dubai residents
- Visitors and tourists
- Families
- Young people
- Senior citizens
Callers can access support free of charge by dialling 800 506.
The helpline operates daily from 9am until midnight and offers support in both Arabic and English, making it accessible to a large segment of Dubai’s multicultural population.
According to Dubai Health, the initiative was created to remove barriers that often prevent people from seeking help, including concerns about cost, accessibility and privacy.
A growing focus on mental health in the UAE
Mental wellbeing has become an increasingly important part of healthcare planning across the UAE in recent years.
The country has expanded mental health services, introduced wellbeing programmes and increased awareness campaigns aimed at reducing stigma surrounding emotional and psychological health.
Dubai’s latest initiative aligns with broader national goals that prioritise preventive healthcare and community wellbeing.
The UAE has consistently ranked wellbeing among its national priorities, with government entities introducing programmes focused on happiness, quality of life and social development.
By creating a free entry point for emotional support, Itma’en helps bridge the gap between everyday mental wellbeing needs and specialised healthcare services.
For many people, reaching out for support can feel overwhelming. Having a confidential phone service available may encourage more individuals to seek help earlier rather than waiting until challenges become more severe.
How the service works?
The process has been designed to be simple and accessible.
Individuals can call the helpline and speak directly with trained professionals who provide emotional support, guidance and practical advice based on their circumstances.
Where additional assistance is required, callers may be connected with specialised healthcare providers or relevant support services for further care.
Dubai Health has emphasised that all conversations remain confidential, helping create a secure environment where individuals can speak openly about their concerns.
This approach is particularly important in a diverse city like Dubai, where people from different cultures and backgrounds may have varying levels of familiarity with mental health services.
A valuable support system for residents and visitors
Dubai is home to people from more than 200 nationalities, many of whom face unique pressures linked to work, relocation, family responsibilities and adapting to life abroad.
Expats often live far from their traditional support networks, making accessible mental wellbeing services especially valuable.
The launch of Itma’en provides an additional support option for those navigating personal challenges while living in one of the world’s fastest-moving cities.
The service may also benefit families, students and working professionals who are looking for guidance but are unsure where to begin.
By offering support before issues escalate, the initiative could contribute to stronger community wellbeing and healthier social connections across the emirate.
Supporting Dubai Social Agenda 33
The launch of Itma’en also supports the objectives of Dubai Social Agenda 33, a long-term strategy focused on improving quality of life, strengthening families and enhancing social wellbeing.
The agenda places strong emphasis on creating a city where residents have access to world-class healthcare and community support services.
Mental wellbeing forms an important part of that vision.
Dubai Health has stated that improving access to emotional support services helps build healthier communities while encouraging individuals to take proactive steps towards their overall wellbeing.
The initiative reflects a broader shift towards treating mental health as an essential part of everyday healthcare rather than a separate issue.
Qualified professionals can volunteer to support the initiative
Alongside the launch, Dubai Health has invited qualified healthcare professionals to contribute to the programme through volunteer opportunities.
Psychologists, social workers, nurses and other mental health specialists can register through the Dubai Now platform to participate in community wellbeing efforts.
The move aims to strengthen the service’s reach while encouraging greater community involvement in mental health support across Dubai.
As demand for wellbeing services continues to grow globally, initiatives like Itma’en could play an important role in expanding access to care and promoting early intervention.
FAQs
Q: What is Itma’en?
A: Itma’en is a free and confidential mental wellbeing support service launched in Dubai that provides emotional support through trained specialists.
Q: Who can use the Itma’en service?
A: The service is available to citizens, residents and visitors across Dubai.
Q: What number should people call for support?
A: Individuals can contact the service by calling 800 506.
Q: Is the service available in multiple languages?
A: Yes. Support is available in both Arabic and English.
Q: What are the operating hours?
A: The helpline operates daily from 9am to midnight.
The launch of Itma’en adds another layer of support to Dubai’s growing healthcare and wellbeing ecosystem. By providing free, confidential and easily accessible emotional support, the initiative aims to help more people seek assistance when they need it and strengthen overall community wellbeing across the emirate.
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