Hyderabad, Dec. 11 -- In a bid to crack down on the illegal sale of narcotics without prescriptions, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has passed a new law under which pharmacies and physicians found violating will face a minimum fine of Dh 50,000 (Rs 12,23,302) and up to five years' imprisonment.

According to Khaleej Times, the legislation calls for the deportation of foreign nationals convicted in narcotics cases, except in two cases: if the individual is the spouse or a first-degree relative of a UAE citizen at the time of the offence.

The new law has updated provisions regarding possession of drugs, and handling of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances for scientific and medical purposes only. Licences may be granted to qualified ...