UAE bans veterinary use of ciprofloxacin to combat antimicrobial resistance

Abu Dhabi: The Emirates Drug Authority (EDA) has banned the use of the active ingredient ciprofloxacin, a fluoroquinolone antibiotic, in the veterinary sector across the UAE, effective November 1, 2026. The decision forms part of the EDA’s efforts to combat antimicrobial resistance, promote the responsible use of antibiotics and preserve the effectiveness of treatments used in human medicine. The ban is based on the medical importance of fluoroquinolones, which are classified as Critically Important Antimicrobials (CIAs) for human health. Ciprofloxacin is used to treat certain bacterial infections in people, and its inappropriate use in animals may contribute to the development of antimicrobial resistance, potentially reducing the effectiveness of available treatments and creating public health challenges. The decision was informed by a scientific assessment of antimicrobial resistance data, including studies submitted by the United Arab Emirates University. The evidence supports regulatory decision-making and strengthens national efforts to reduce the risks associated with antimicrobial resistance. Dr Ruqaya Aqeel Al-Bastaki Dr Ruqaya Aqeel Al-Bastaki, Acting Executive Director of the Medical Products Regulation Sector at the Emirates Drug Authority, said antimicrobial management requires a regulatory approach based on assessing the nature of the risks associated with each substance and its impact on treatment priorities across different sectors. She said scientific evidence is a critical foundation for determining the appropriate level of regulatory intervention, enabling the authority to take necessary action when indicators point to risks that require intervention, in line with the nature of the substance and its uses. Dr Al-Bastaki added that the EDA remains committed to ensuring its decisions are aligned with scientific developments and capable of proactively addressing risks linked to antimicrobial resistance. She said this supports the protection of treatment effectiveness, strengthens drug security and the sustainability of medical products, and safeguards public health. The decision falls within the EDA’s mandate to regulate the use of medical and pharmaceutical products and monitor compliance with relevant regulations. It covers nine veterinary pharmaceutical products and raw materials containing ciprofloxacin, including eight imported products and one locally registered product. Ahead of the implementation date, the EDA has taken the necessary regulatory measures to identify the affected products and raw materials and has notified relevant establishments to stop manufacturing, importing and supplying them. The authority has also instructed companies to withdraw existing quantities from the local market before the ban takes effect and to manage remaining stock through re-export or disposal in accordance with approved procedures, while providing supporting documentation to complete the process.