Dubai adopts new standards to enhance mental health services

The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) has introduced new mental health service standards to align with global best practices.

These updates are designed to ensure greater collaboration among medical professionals, including doctors, psychologists and nurses, ensuring that mental health care meets the highest professional standards.

The latest guidelines also integrate digital health services and teletherapy, adopting the latest international virtual care standards to offer confidential and accessible psychological consultations.

The new standards were developed with input from global experts and organisations such as Accreditation Canada, ensuring they adhere to international best practices while addressing local privacy needs.

They focus on evidence-based treatments, following recommendations from the World Health Organisation and the American Psychological Association. Additionally, the standards outline clear licensing regulations and ensure mental health services are delivered by qualified professionals.

The DHA is also prioritising the professional development of mental health specialists with advanced training programmes, ensuring services remain cutting-edge and aligned with global advancements.

The authority continues to review and update these standards, keeping pace with developments in mental health care, digital health and remote therapy.