Following several recent cases involving offensive content on social media, the UAE National Media Authority has reiterated the need to comply with content standards. The latest case involved a female resident who faced legal action for publishing offensive content about Emirati women, while her Mu’lin advertising permit was suspended for three months.

Under the UAE’s media standards, content that insults or demeans individuals, attacks religion, national identity or state institutions, or undermines social unity and cohesion may be investigated by the relevant authorities. Content that incites hatred, sectarian, regional or tribal divisions, as well as violence, terrorism or other crimes, is also subject to restrictions.

Publishing rumours, false or misleading information, fabricated images or documents, or material falsely attributed to an individual or organisation may also have legal consequences. The list further includes disclosing details of others’ private lives without respecting their privacy, content that violates public morals, and material promoting illegal conduct, drugs or violence.

The regulations are not limited to news outlets and also apply to posts, videos, live streams, comments and promotional content produced by content creators. Mu’lin permit holders may face warnings, suspension or permit revocation for violations. The Media Regulation Law also provides for fines ranging from Dh1,000 to Dh1 million, rising to as much as Dh2 million for repeat offences.

In addition to media regulations, Article 43 of the UAE Cybercrime Law provides for imprisonment and/or fines of between Dh250,000 and Dh500,000 for online insults or allegations that expose a person to contempt by others.

However, not every criticism or negative comment necessarily results in legal action. Each case is assessed based on the content, the context in which it was published and the applicable laws. Authorities have advised users to verify information before publishing and to avoid sharing unsubstantiated allegations or material that violates privacy.