Sharjah Police unveil the world’s first ‘Aftercare Watch’ to support drug addiction recovery

As part of its participation with the Government of Sharjah pavilion at GITEX Global 2025, under the theme of "Humanity", the Sharjah Police General Command showcased an unprecedented technological and humanitarian innovation. It is the "Aftercare Watch". This reflects the emirate's forward-thinking approach to using smart technology to support society and vulnerable groups. The Aftercare Watch is the world's first device dedicated to monitoring and rehabilitating drug addicts, supporting them after treatment and helping reduce relapse and promote positive integration into society. 

Captain Sarah Al Zarouni, Director of the Innovators Care Section at the Sharjah Police General Command, explained that the watch initiative represents a significant advancement in aftercare and rehabilitation. It reflects the vision of His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, who stresses the importance of preserving human dignity, promoting compassion and solidarity, and helping those in need integrate into society and become active, influential members of it. The initiative further translates the Sharjah Police's commitment to taking a humane integrated approach that balances security and social care.

Smart monitoring

She explained that the watch is designed to enable the relevant authorities to continuously monitor the health and behavioral status of recovering addicts. It does this by monitoring vital signs such as heart rate and oxygen levels, as well as changes in physical and psychological indicators. The watch also accurately tracks the user's geographic locations to ensure their safety and provide timely support.  

She further said that the accompanying platform enables real-time monitoring of data broadcast by the watch. This allows specialized teams to detect danger signs or potential relapse and immediately communicate with the relevant person to provide the necessary psychological or medical support. She emphasized that the initiative's main objective is to preserve human dignity, protect life, and help people make a fresh start in a supportive community. 

Al Zarouni pointed out that the watch has a long-lasting battery, operating for up to five consecutive days on a single charge, which makes it practical and easy to use. It also features a smart alarm system that is automatically activated when any abnormalities in vital signs are detected or urgent intervention is required.

Captain Sarah also explained that the initiative is not only about the technology, but also involves an integrated support system that periodically monitors cases to ensure continued recovery and achieve psychological and behavioural stability.