By Advocate Anjana Bhatia D.I
Our Consulting Editor, Advocate Anjana Bhatia D.I is an accomplished Indian Lawyer practicing in India and the UAE. She has over 25 years of experience in Law – Litigation, Corporate, Civil, Criminal, Mediation as well as registered with DIFC Wills and Probate Registry. She provides legal solutions to clients globally with strategic results.
Dubai, UAE- In today’s digital age, information spreads faster than ever, and a single video or message shared on social media can reach thousands of people within minutes. Authorities in the United Arab Emirates have repeatedly reminded residents that sharing/creating unverified or misleading content online can have serious legal consequences, especially during sensitive situations such as conflicts or security incidents.
The UAE Public Prosecution recently ordered the arrest of individuals accused of publishing video clips on digital platforms that could mislead the public, highlighting the importance of responsible online behavior. The message from authorities is clear: residents must be careful about what they post, forward, or circulate online. In a country that hosts millions of expatriates from around the world, social media platforms such as WhatsApp, Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter) are widely used for communication and news updates. However, users must understand that online activity in the UAE is governed by strict cybercrime laws, and individuals can be held legally accountable for the content they publish or share. Under the UAE’s Federal Decree-Law on Combating Rumours and Cybercrime, spreading false information, rumors, or misleading visuals that may harm public order or create panic can result in imprisonment and heavy financial penalties. In many cases, those found guilty of spreading false information online shall be punished with imprisonment for at least one year and a fine of not less than AED 100,000/-, depending on the seriousness of the offense and its impact on society. Importantly, the law applies not only to those who create such content but also to people who knowingly share or repost it. Authorities have also warned against publishing videos related to wars, military activities, security incidents, or explosions without verification, or any AI generated content in present situation particularly if the content is misleading or taken out of context.
In some cases, individuals have circulated old footage from other countries or edited clips that appear dramatic but are not connected to the UAE or the actual event being discussed. Sharing such content can cause confusion, unnecessary fear, and harm the country’s reputation for safety and stability. Another growing concern worldwide is the misuse of artificial intelligence (AI) to create manipulated videos or images that appear real but are completely fabricated. The UAE has taken a firm stance against the use of AI tools to generate deepfake videos, fake war footage, or manipulated content designed to spread false narratives or mislead the public. Creating or distributing such content can lead to serious legal action, including imprisonment and large fines, as it falls under cybercrime and misinformation laws. Authorities emphasize that misinformation can spread rapidly during times of regional tension, and therefore residents should rely only on official government announcements, police updates, and trusted news organizations for accurate information.
READ: UAE Attorney-General orders arrest of 10 defendants for expedited trial over publishing video clips via digital platforms
https://www.wam.ae/en/article/174bj4g-uae-attorney-general-orders-arrest-defendants-for
The UAE is home to a diverse international community, and many expatriates may not always be fully aware of the country’s digital regulations. Experts advise residents to treat social media in the same way they would treat communication in public spaces, very responsibly and within the limits of the law. Something that may seem like a harmless forward or viral video could, in reality, violate regulations if it spreads rumors or false information.
Simple precautions can help residents stay safe online, such as verifying the source of a video before sharing it, avoiding sensational or unconfirmed posts, and checking whether the information comes from credible and official channels. The UAE has built a global reputation as one of the safest and most stable countries in the world, and maintaining that stability is a top priority for authorities.
The laws governing digital platforms are designed not to restrict freedom unnecessarily but to ensure that information circulating online does not harm society or create panic. For residents and expatriates living in the UAE, the key message is straightforward: think before you share, verify information carefully, and always respect the country’s laws when using digital platforms. Responsible use of social media not only protects individuals from legal consequences but also helps maintain the trust, safety, and harmony that define life in the UAE.
“The above is a general overview; outcomes differ from case to case and are subject to the discretion of the concerned authorities.”
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ADVOCATE ANJANA BHATIA D.I CAN BE CONTACTED AT-
Mobile: +971505944896
Website: www.ajureadvocates.com
Email- anjana@ajureadvocates.com , editor@emiratesreporter.com
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