Social Media Influencer Fined Dh81,000 for Defaming Restaurant in Online Video

An Abu Dhabi court has ordered a social media influencer to pay Dh81,000 after finding that a video she posted about a well-known restaurant amounted to defamation rather than legitimate consumer criticism, according to the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD).

The court found that the video, which was published on the influencer’s personal social media account, contained direct insults and allegations targeting the restaurant owner’s integrity and business practices instead of providing an objective review of the restaurant’s services or products.

The influencer had filmed the restaurant premises and uploaded the footage online. The owner later filed a complaint, claiming that the video had caused significant damage to both his personal reputation and the business’s standing.

During questioning by authorities and the Public Prosecution, the defendant admitted that she had recorded the video and shared it through her account. She maintained that her intention was to criticise the restaurant.

However, investigators concluded that the content went beyond a review or expression of opinion, as it focused on personal accusations and offensive remarks against individuals. Authorities determined that the statements were defamatory and abusive, rather than a genuine assessment of the services provided.

The court convicted the influencer, imposed a Dh30,000 fine, ordered the removal of the video, and directed the confiscation of the mobile phone used to record and publish the content.

In addition to the criminal penalty, the court ordered her to pay Dh51,000 in temporary civil compensation to the affected party, taking the total financial liability to Dh81,000.

The Abu Dhabi court highlighted the legal risks associated with publishing harmful statements online and stressed the distinction between lawful criticism and defamation. While consumers have the right to share opinions about products and services, UAE law does not permit content that damages an individual’s reputation through insults, false allegations or personal attacks.

UAE Defamation Law

Under Article 425 of the UAE Penal Code, publicly accusing another person of a specific act that could harm their reputation may constitute defamation. The offence can lead to imprisonment of up to two years or a fine of up to Dh20,000.

Publishing defamatory statements through newspapers or other publications is considered an aggravating circumstance and may result in stricter penalties.

Article 426 addresses public insults that harm a person’s honour or dignity without alleging a specific fact. Unlike defamation, which involves attributing a particular act to someone, public insult covers offensive expressions or remarks that degrade a person’s reputation.

Under Article 428, defamation may not be considered a criminal offence if the accused proves the truth of the allegation in cases involving public officials or individuals performing public duties, provided the statement relates to their official conduct.

Cybercrime Legislation

The UAE’s cybercrime legislation also imposes strict penalties for spreading false, misleading or harmful information through digital platforms.

The law prohibits publishing, sharing or circulating false information, rumours or misleading content that may affect public order, safety or social stability. Violators may face imprisonment and fines of not less than Dh100,000, with harsher penalties during emergencies, crises or pandemics.

The legislation also criminalises online insults and allegations that expose individuals to punishment or public contempt. Such offences can attract fines ranging from Dh250,000 to Dh500,000, along with possible detention.

Legal experts have repeatedly stressed that social media users must distinguish between expressing a genuine opinion and making unsupported accusations that harm another person’s reputation. While criticism of businesses is permitted, personal attacks, defamatory claims and misleading statements can trigger criminal and civil consequences in the UAE.

 

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