UAE Law Bans AI Misuse of National Symbols and Public Figures, Warns of Strict Penalties for Violators

The UAE Media Council has reaffirmed that using generative artificial intelligence or similar technologies to depict national symbols or public figures without prior approval is prohibited under the law.

The Council clarified that employing AI tools to spread misinformation, promote hate speech, defame individuals, undermine their dignity, or harm societal values constitutes a media violation punishable under the Media Violations Regulation, which includes fines and administrative penalties.

It urged media outlets, social media users, and content creators to adhere strictly to existing laws and standards while upholding professional and ethical responsibility.

The reminder follows a recent case where a social media post featuring an AI-generated image of a user alongside the UAE’s founding father, Sheikh Zayed Al Nahyan, sparked criticism, with many calling it “distasteful” and “unnecessary.”

The UAE enforces strict media regulations to combat online bullying and misinformation, while safeguarding social cohesion and tolerance. Article 1(17) of the Federal Decree on Media Regulation mandates respect for the state’s symbols, cultural heritage, and national identity. Likewise, the UAE Charter for Responsible and Ethical Use of AI, issued in June 2024, stresses the importance of deploying AI responsibly.

Earlier in May, the UAE Media Council signed an agreement with Presight, a global AI-powered data company, to launch a regulatory platform. The system will scan and validate media content to ensure compliance with UAE laws and values before its release. The app will integrate data from multiple agencies and licensing bodies, providing advanced tools for real-time analysis, filtering, and collaboration.