Muscat – A national platform has been launched for drug rehabilitation and raising awareness on the dangers of addiction and psychotropic substances. Known as ‘Hayat’, it marks a major step in the sultanate’s efforts to combat drug abuse and promote mental well-being.

The first initiative of its kind in the country, Hayat offers integrated digital services for prevention, treatment and support for individuals affected by addiction, while also providing direct assistance to families and community members.

Developed in collaboration with several key government entities – including Ministry of Social Development; Ministry of Health; Ministry of Education; Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation; Ministry of Endowments and Religious Affairs; Ministry of Information; and the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth – the platform reflects a unified national strategy to address the growing challenges of substance abuse.

Hayat provides a secure and user-friendly digital space for awareness, counselling, early intervention, treatment and rehabilitation. The platform’s services include free and confidential advisory support spanning psychological, medical, social and religious dimensions delivered by qualified specialists. Support can be accessed through the toll-free number 1110 or via live chat at http://www.hayah.om

Alongside its live support features, Hayat hosts educational material including awareness videos, articles and real-life accounts shared by individuals in recovery. The platform’s interactive approach begins with guided questions to understand users’ emotional and social circumstances, directing them to a tailored pathway for support.

Speaking at the launch, Hamoud bin Murdad al Shabibi, official spokesperson for Ministry of Social Development, described Hayat as a transformative advancement in digital prevention and awareness. He noted that the platform was designed with privacy as a core principle and built in close partnership with specialised organisations to deliver effective and professional services.

He further stated that Hayat is expected to contribute significantly to public awareness, early support and overall societal well-being. “By reducing the stigma associated with addiction and encouraging individuals to take proactive steps towards recovery, the platform will help create safer communities and offer scientific, professional and timely responses to cases of substance use within a flexible digital framework.”

As part of the launch, a national awareness campaign under the slogan ‘Welcome as you are’ was also introduced. The campaign seeks to reduce stigma, promote acceptance and provide psychological and social support, encouraging individuals to seek help without fear of judgement.

Hayat aligns with Oman Vision 2040, which emphasises building a safe, healthy and cohesive society. By combining prevention, treatment and support within a single digital framework, the initiative aims to create safer communities, raise public awareness and encourage early intervention in cases of substance use.