The Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA) has announced a ban on the cultivation, production, propagation, and circulation of the toxic oleander plant in the emirate.
This decision is aimed at safeguarding public health, particularly for children and pets, from the dangers associated with this poisonous plant.
Oleander, a shrub often found in rocky areas and planted for its attractive flowers, contains toxic substances in all its parts.
Ingestion, even in small amounts, can lead to serious health issues, including nausea, vomiting, and potentially fatal heart irregularities.
Mouza Suhail Al Muhairi, ADAFSA's Deputy Director General for Regulatory and Administrative Affairs, stressed the importance of this ban as a proactive measure to ensure community safety.
The resolution, effective immediately, mandates the removal of oleander within six months. However, exceptions will be made for research purposes with prior approval from ADAFSA.
Collaboration with other government agencies is key to this initiative, with extensive awareness campaigns planned to educate the public on the dangers of oleander.
Dr. Salem Al Kaabi, Director General of Operations Affairs at the Department of Municipalities and Transport, reaffirmed their commitment to this collaborative effort.
ADAFSA urges residents to report any oleander plants and to avoid touching or consuming unfamiliar plants. For emergencies, the Poison and Drug Information Services hotline is available 24/7 at 800424.
This move aligns with the One Health approach, which emphasises the connection between human, animal and environmental health, further demonstrating Abu Dhabi’s dedication to safety and well-being.
.@adafsa_gov has issued a resolution banning the cultivation, production, propagation and circulation of the oleander plant within Abu Dhabi, advancing efforts to ensure public health and safety and mitigate the potential risks of ingesting the toxic plant. pic.twitter.com/v5KGAdXYwR
— مكتب أبوظبي الإعلامي (@ADMediaOffice) October 8, 2024

H.H. Sheikh Hamdan pays tribute to royal photographer
H.H. Sheikh Hamdan awards Arab Hope Makers
UAE looks into framework to regulate children's social media use
UAE Ramadan moon-sighting committee to meet on Tuesday
RTA opens second bridge at Al Qudra intersection
Abu Dhabi identifies over 40 modern heritage sites
Distribution of aid from UAE's Saqr Humanitarian Ship begins in Gaza
Dubai to expand bus and taxi lanes as public transport ridership grows by 7.4%
Emir of Qatar welcomed by UAE President on visit to Abu Dhabi
UAE, Egypt Foreign Ministers discuss Gaza peace plan
UAE, Pakistan leaders discuss boosting economic ties
UAE, Bosnia FMs discuss strengthening bilateral relations
H.H. Sheikh Mohammed launches campaign to rescue 5 million children from hunger
Dubai advances measures to support people of determination
Abu Dhabi Crown Prince to lead UAE delegation at AI Impact Summit in India
Over 14 million Captagon pills, hidden in grain sacks, seized in UAE–Kuwait operation
Remote learning on Fridays during Ramadan for UAE public schools
UAE clarifies enrollment rules for British curriculum schools
UAE announces temporary road closures in Al Dhaid
Umm Al Emarat aid ship sets sail for Gaza Strip
