Dubai Introduces Free Mental Health Hotline ‘Itma’en’ for Community Wellbeing

Dubai has introduced a new initiative aimed at improving access to mental health support, launching the “Itma’en” hotline, a free service that allows individuals to speak with trained specialists about emotional and psychological concerns.

The service was launched through a collaboration between Dubai Health, the Community Development Authority (CDA), and the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) as part of wider efforts to strengthen mental wellbeing support across the emirate. The initiative is designed to make professional mental health guidance more accessible to citizens, residents, and visitors in Dubai.

The name “Itma’en,” which translates to “rest assured,” reflects the service’s focus on providing reassurance and a safe space for people who may be experiencing stress, anxiety, or other emotional challenges. Officials say the hotline aims to encourage individuals to seek help when they need it and to promote a culture where mental wellbeing is treated with the same importance as physical health.

A confidential support service

Through the Itma’en hotline, individuals can receive confidential mental wellbeing guidance by calling 800506, where they will be connected with trained counsellors and mental health specialists. These professionals are available to listen, provide guidance, and offer reassurance to callers who may be dealing with personal or emotional difficulties.

The service operates daily from 9:00 am to midnight and is offered free of charge in both Arabic and English, making it accessible to Dubai’s diverse population. According to officials, the hotline is designed for people of all ages who may need advice, emotional support, or information about maintaining good mental health.

While the hotline primarily focuses on providing immediate support and guidance, callers who require more specialized care may be referred to appropriate medical teams or mental health services for further evaluation and treatment.

Supporting community wellbeing

Authorities say the launch of the Itma’en service is part of Dubai’s broader commitment to enhancing community wellbeing and strengthening the social support system.

Hessa bint Essa Buhumaid, Director General of the Community Development Authority in Dubai, said the initiative reflects the government’s focus on supporting individuals and families facing emotional or psychological challenges.

She highlighted that improving mental wellbeing is an important part of the emirate’s social development strategy, noting that providing accessible support channels can help improve quality of life and strengthen community stability.

Officials also emphasised that services like Itma’en play an important role in reducing stigma surrounding mental health by encouraging people to talk openly about their concerns and seek professional help.

A step toward stronger mental health services

Healthcare leaders have described the hotline as an example of how collaboration between government entities can strengthen the healthcare system and ensure that residents have access to the support they need.

Dr. Alawi Alsheikh-Ali, Director General of the Dubai Health Authority, said the initiative demonstrates Dubai’s commitment to building a proactive healthcare system that prioritises community wellbeing. Improving access to mental health guidance, he noted, is an important element of public health and contributes to building a healthier society.

Dr. Amer Sharif, CEO of Dubai Health and President of Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, also stressed that mental wellbeing should receive the same level of attention and care as physical health. According to him, providing accessible and confidential support channels allows individuals to seek help with confidence and privacy.

Aligning with Dubai’s long-term social goals

The Itma’en hotline also supports the objectives of Dubai Social Agenda 33, a long-term plan aimed at improving social services, healthcare, and overall quality of life for residents. The agenda focuses on strengthening social protection systems and creating a comprehensive framework that promotes wellbeing across the community.

By introducing accessible mental health services such as Itma’en, Dubai authorities hope to make professional support easier to reach while encouraging individuals to prioritise their emotional wellbeing.

Encouraging people to seek help

Mental health experts say initiatives like this are particularly important in fast-paced urban environments where many people may face work pressures, financial stress, or personal challenges.

By offering free and confidential guidance through a simple phone call, the Itma’en hotline aims to ensure that people have someone to talk to when they need support. The service provides reassurance that help is available and that seeking assistance for mental wellbeing is both normal and encouraged.

As Dubai continues to expand its healthcare and community services, initiatives such as Itma’en highlight the emirate’s growing focus on preventive care, emotional wellbeing, and accessible mental health support for everyone living in the city.