UAE Authority Takes Legal Action Against Two Individuals Over Offensive Social Media Live Broadcast

The UAE's National Media Authority (NMA) has taken legal action against two individuals for violating media content standards after they promoted offensive content during a live broadcast on social media.

The authority announced on Monday, August 3, that the broadcast contained material deemed disrespectful to the UAE's culture, civilisational heritage and national identity. It also said the content offended the prevailing values of society.

In addition to initiating legal proceedings, the NMA suspended the publicity permit granted to one of the violators for three months.

The authority reaffirmed that it will not tolerate the misuse of digital platforms to publish content intended to generate views or increase engagement at the expense of societal values. It also warned against content that stirs controversy within the community or undermines the country's values, principles and national identity.

Legal experts in the UAE have repeatedly warned residents that even a seemingly harmless social media post or comment can lead to criminal proceedings if it breaches the country's laws or established standards. Penalties for online defamation and cybercrimes can be severe, including fines of up to Dh500,000, imprisonment and deportation for expatriates.

Individuals using social media platforms in the UAE are advised to comply with the country's laws and regulations to avoid substantial penalties. Key principles include:

• Respecting beliefs and religions
• Honouring cultural heritage
• Protecting national unity
• Respecting the country's ruling system
• Safeguarding foreign relations
• Refraining from spreading rumours and fake news
• Respecting privacy rights
• Complying with legal and security regulations
• Following official state directives
• Upholding the country's legal framework
  
  

UAE media laws

Two key laws govern media activities and online content in the UAE:

Media Regulation Law: This legislation governs all forms of media activity in the country, defining the rights and responsibilities of media institutions and individuals. It promotes responsible media freedom, provided such activity complies with the law and respects societal values.

Combating Rumours and Cybercrimes Law: This law protects society against rumours, misinformation and cybercrimes. It criminalises the publication of false news and the use of electronic means to commit offences against individuals or the state, while safeguarding national security, social stability, and the reputation and privacy of individuals.

The copy has been tightened, restructured for better news flow, corrected to British English, and repetitive wording has been removed while preserving the original information and overall length.

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