UAE to prohibit ciprofloxacin in animals from November to fight antimicrobial resistance

Rationale behind the decision

The ban is part of the EDA’s broader strategy to counter antimicrobial resistance, encourage responsible antibiotic use and safeguard the effectiveness of treatments used in human medicine. Fluoroquinolones are classified as Critically Important Antimicrobials for human health, and ciprofloxacin is prescribed for certain bacterial infections in people. The authority warns that inappropriate veterinary use of the drug could accelerate antimicrobial resistance, potentially diminishing treatment options and creating public health risks.

The decision was based on scientific assessments of antimicrobial resistance data, including studies submitted by the United Arab Emirates University. These findings support regulatory action and reinforce national efforts to lower the risks linked to antimicrobial resistance.

Official statement

Dr Ruqaya Aqeel Al-Bastaki, Acting Executive Director of the Medical Products Regulation Sector at the Emirates Drug Authority, said antimicrobial management demands a regulatory approach that evaluates the risks of each substance and its impact on treatment priorities across different sectors. She emphasised that scientific evidence forms a critical basis for determining the right level of regulatory intervention, allowing the authority to act when indicators point to risks requiring action, in line with the nature of the substance and its uses.

Dr Al-Bastaki added that the EDA remains committed to aligning its decisions with scientific progress and proactively addressing risks associated with antimicrobial resistance. This commitment, she said, helps protect treatment effectiveness, strengthens drug security and the sustainability of medical products, and safeguards public health.

Products affected and compliance steps

The ban covers nine veterinary pharmaceutical products and raw materials containing ciprofloxacin, comprising eight imported products and one locally registered product. The EDA has taken preparatory regulatory steps to identify the affected items and has notified relevant establishments to cease manufacturing, importing and supplying them. Companies have been instructed to withdraw existing quantities from the local market before the deadline and to manage remaining stock through re-export or disposal in line with approved procedures, while providing supporting documentation to complete the process.

The decision falls within the EDA’s mandate to regulate medical and pharmaceutical products and monitor compliance with relevant regulations.