Doctors across the United Arab Emirates are raising alarms about the growing misuse of antibiotics by residents, a trend they say is contributing to the rise of drug-resistant “superbugs” and posing a serious public health risk. With seasonal illnesses such as flu and respiratory infections circulating, many patients are self-prescribing antibiotics — often without medical guidance — in the hopes of feeling better faster. However, antibiotics are effective only against bacterial infections, not viral illnesses like the flu or common cold, meaning inappropriate use does little to help and can harm overall health outcomes.
Healthcare professionals emphasize that this pattern of self-medication, particularly among expatriate communities who may have easier access to antibiotics from home countries or keep leftover medications, undermines efforts to curb antimicrobial resistance (AMR). When antibiotics are taken incorrectly — such as without proper diagnosis, at the wrong dose, or for too short a duration — bacteria can adapt and become resistant to treatment. Over time, this can render once-effective drugs useless against common infections.
The UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention and other health bodies have marked initiatives like World Antibiotic Awareness Week to educate the public on responsible antibiotic use and the dangers of resistance. Doctors also highlight the role of healthcare systems in strengthening antibiotic stewardship programmes, including rapid diagnostic tests and prescribing guidelines to ensure antibiotics are used only when truly necessary.
Experts stress that patients should always consult healthcare professionals before taking antibiotics, complete the full prescribed course, and never share or use leftover antibiotics. Increased public awareness, combined with clinical and policy efforts, is critical to combating the global threat of superbugs and preserving the effectiveness of life-saving medicines for future generations.
