Environment
People in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have been warned that insulting others on social media, posting derogatory comments,
People in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have been warned that insulting others on social media, posting derogatory comments, or publishing defamatory content could result in imprisonment and fines of up to AED 500,000 (approximately $136,000). According to a report, the warning was issued as part of the UAE’s nationwide awareness campaign, “The UAE Is Safe with Your Digital Awareness,” which aims to promote responsible internet use and raise awareness of cybercrime among citizens and residents.
The campaign was launched by the Ministry of Interior in cooperation with Dubai Police and the Dubai Electronic Security Centre. A video released in October as part of the cyber security awareness initiative advises social media users to consider the potential consequences before publishing any comment or post. The campaign refers to Article 43 of Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021 on Combating Rumours and Cybercrimes.
According to the report, insulting another person or attributing an incident to them that could expose them to legal punishment or public ridicule may, depending on the circumstances, result in imprisonment and a fine ranging from AED 250,000 to AED 500,000. The law also allows either of these penalties to be imposed.
The penalties may be increased if the offence is committed against a public official or a person performing a public service in connection with their duties. Authorities have urged users to use social media for constructive discussions, positive dialogue, and expressing disagreements in a respectful manner. Users have also been advised to avoid personal attacks, ridicule, and insulting language. The awareness campaign aims not only to curb online abuse but also to raise awareness of internet fraud, cybercrime, and the misuse of modern technologies, including artificial intelligence. According to officials, users may also bear legal responsibility for content published on digital platforms. They have therefore stressed the importance of exercising caution before posting or commenting online.
