UAE Alcohol Addiction Therapeutics Market Analysis

UAE Alcohol Addiction Therapeutics Market Executive Summary

The UAE Alcohol Addiction Therapeutics Market is valued at around $4 Mn in 2022 and is projected to reach $6 Mn by 2030, exhibiting a CAGR of 7.3% during the forecast period.

Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) is a complicated and varied condition marked by the dysregulation of several executive function-related brain circuits, which results in excessive alcohol consumption despite detrimental effects on one's health and social life, as well as feelings of withdrawal when alcohol access is restricted. Anyone can acquire AUD, regardless of age, gender, or background. AUD can have a substantial influence on an individual's health, relationships, and general quality of life. Treatment options include both psychological and pharmaceutical therapies targeted at lowering alcohol use and/or encouraging abstinence while also treating dysfunctional behaviours and reduced functioning. CBT, motivational interviewing, and contingency management are examples of psychological treatments for AUD. Medications used to treat AUD include disulfiram, acamprosate, naltrexone, and nalmefene.

The frequency of alcohol addiction in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is concerning, despite the country's rigorous alcohol consumption rules. Alcohol and drug misuse are on the rise in the UAE, despite cultural, religious, and legal barriers. Alcohol is the most often used drug among people with substance use disorders, accounting for 41.3% of all cases. The UAE Alcohol Addiction Therapeutic Market's market drivers include growing urbanization, social pressures in the workplace, and increased awareness of mental health problems, all of which contribute to increased alcohol intake.

AbbVie has a big foothold in the pharmaceutical sector because of its popular naltrexone drug. NMC Healthcare has a large network of hospitals and clinics that provide addiction treatment. NMC has a significant market share and provides critical private behavioural therapy choices.

Market Dynamics

Market Drivers

Development and Growth: Rapid urbanization in the UAE confines populations, particularly young adults, in areas with higher exposure to possible alcohol-related triggers. Social pressures in these fast-paced workplaces might lead to increased consumption and dependency. While past standards may have prevented excessive alcohol intake, increased awareness of mental health concerns is making it easier to seek addiction treatment. Social media and public efforts help to normalize the debate about alcoholism.

Increasing Focus on Well-Being: The UAE's robust economy drives up demand for high-quality, private addiction treatment solutions. This draws a large number of medical tourists seeking specialist care in a nice and exclusive setting.  An increased emphasis on personal health and wellness creates a more tolerant atmosphere for people seeking treatment for alcohol addiction. This cultural movement reduces stigma and promotes proactive approaches to mental health and wellbeing.

Lack of Local Players: Recognizing the increased need, private healthcare providers are opening specialized addiction treatment clinics that offer complete programs and cater to a broader clientele with various requirements and preferences. However, there are few players in the nation capable of providing efficient and cost-effective pharmaceuticals. Almost all pharmaceuticals are imported, putting a strain on both the government and patients' finances. This increases the need for these kinds of businesses in the UAE market.

Market Restraints

Cultural Stigma: Fear of societal judgment and associated consequences can be a substantial barrier to seeking therapy. Ethical and cultural standards encourage abstinence from alcohol, and addiction treatment programs are seen as incompatible with such ideals. This might cause internal conflict and an unwillingness to get therapy. In certain cases, a lack of understanding or acceptance from family members might deter people from obtaining or continuing therapy. This can intensify feelings of loneliness and increase the difficulties of recuperation.

Expensive Treatment: Despite increases in insurance coverage, some kinds of therapy and drugs may not be completely covered, leaving patients with a financial burden. This might result in treatment cessation or reduced access for people with inadequate financial means.

Limited Market Size: While the UAE Alcohol Addiction Therapeutic Market is expanding each year, the UAE's overall population is rather small. With a limited patient pool, treatment facilities and healthcare providers may find it challenging to attain economies of scale and assure financial viability.

Healthcare Policies and Regulatory Landscape

Healthcare policies in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are largely regulated by a set of laws, rules, norms, and policies at the federal and emiral levels. The Ministry of Health (MOH), the UAE's drug regulatory organization, is in charge of healthcare industry regulation, including drug and medicine control. The MOH, along with other bodies such as the Health Authority-Abu Dhabi (HAAD), the Dubai Health Authority (DHA), and the newly established Emirates Health Authority (EHA), monitors and regulates the UAE's healthcare industry. The UAE's National Drug Policy intends to govern the production, sale, and use of medications and medicines for defined reasons, such as diagnosing, treating, curing, alleviating, or avoiding illnesses, as well as restoring, renewing, or regenerating the normal function of the body.

Competitive Landscape

Key Players

• GlaxoSmithKline
• Lundbeck
• TEVA
• Roche
• Eli Lilly
• AstraZeneca
• Cipla
• Camden
• Pfizer
• Sun Pharmaceuticals