All You Need to know about Regulations on Social Media Posting in the UAE

The provisions of Federal Decree Law No. 34 of 2021 on Combatting Rumors and Cybercrimes (the "UAE Cybercrime Law") are relevant with regard to the rules governing posting on social media in the UAE.

When sharing any content on social media platforms in the UAE, one must abide by the laws and regulations established by the country's cybercrime law as well as the local authorities' recommendations.

The UAE offers excellent prospects for utilising social media platforms in general. However, a person must exercise caution when using the sites and should do so in accordance with the UAE Cybercrime Law. As a result, you could adhere to the basic social media laws in the UAE that are listed as follows:

● By virtue of Article 37 of the UAE Cybercrime Law, making insulting or offensive posts which defame Islam or any other recognised religions, may attract imprisonment of up to seven years and penalties ranging from Dh250,000 to Dh1 million.

● By Article 32 to Article 34 of the UAE Cybercrime law, any content posted on social media which is harmful to women or children, such as human trafficking, pornography, prostitution and acts against public morality may attract imprisonment ranging from one to five years and penalties from Dh250,000 to Dh 1 million.
● As given under Article 20 to Article 28 of the UAE Cybercrime Law, posting any content against the government or government departments, the ruling regime, symbols, political system of the UAE and any other countries are considered very serious offences.
● Following Article 44 of the UAE Cybercrime Law, one should refrain from posting photographs, videos or comments on the social media platforms which invade someone's privacy and personal life as such offences may attract imprisonment of at least six months and penalties from Dh150,000 to Dh500,000.
● Posting offensive content, rumours, and incorrect information about UAE culture and heritage should be avoided. One should also not divulge anything that could be used against oneself in legal or criminal investigations, or in advertisements that go against the law or morality of the community.

Furthermore, you are required to obtain a license from the National Media Council or any other competent authority in the UAE if one intends to be a social media influencer and accept paid advertisements.