About Al-Anon UAE
Understanding the program and finding out if it is right for you.
What is Al-Anon?
Al-Anon UAE is part of a worldwide support network that offers a programme of recovery for the families and friends of alcoholics, whether or not the alcoholic seeks help or even acknowledges a drinking problem.
Members share their experiences, strength, and hope to help each other and to better understand their situation.
Al-Anon is not affiliated with Alcoholics Anonymous, although there is a close working relationship between the two groups. Al-Anon is also not affiliated with any sect, denomination, political entity, organisation, or institution.
Who is Al-Anon for?
Al-Anon is for anyone who has been affected — directly or indirectly — by someone else's drinking. This includes spouses, partners, parents, children, siblings, friends, and colleagues.
You do not need to be in crisis to attend. Many members come out of curiosity, or simply because they suspect that a loved one's drinking is affecting them, even in small ways.
There is no requirement to identify yourself, to share, or to commit to returning. Anonymity is a cornerstone of the program.
How It Works
Attend a meeting
No registration is required. Simply find a meeting near you, show up, and listen. You are not obliged to speak.
Share if you choose
Meetings offer members an opportunity to share their experiences in a safe, supportive, and completely confidential setting.
Work the programme
Over time, members work through the Twelve Steps and use Al-Anon literature to build a programme of personal recovery.
Carry the message
Experienced members offer sponsorship and service to newcomers, continuing the cycle of recovery for future members.
Al-Anon vs. Alateen
Al-Anon
For adults — spouses, parents, siblings, friends — who are affected by another person's drinking. Meetings are open to anyone 18 and over.
Alateen
A part of Al-Anon specifically for teenagers aged 13 to 19. Alateen members share their experience, strength, and hope with each other in a confidential space. Our Alateen meeting in the UAE is led by two sponsors, both affected by alcoholism during their childhood and active members in recovery programs.