Social media creators face permit suspension and fines under UAE media standards

The UAE's National Media Authority enforces content standards for creators and advertisers using social media, the internet and other digital channels. Posts, videos and livestreams that insult or denigrate people, attack religion or national identity, spread hatred, share false information, invade privacy, violate public morals or disregard UAE culture can trigger regulatory action. The Media Regulation Law provides for warnings, fines between Dh1,000 and Dh1 million, temporary closure of media institutions for up to six months, or cancellation of licences and permits. Repeat violations may result in fines up to Dh2 million. A separate criminal provision under Article 43 of the Cybercrimes Law covers online insults with penalties of imprisonment and fines from Dh250,000 to Dh500,000. Recent enforcement actions have included three-month suspensions of Mu'lin Permits (issued to content creators and advertisers) for content deemed offensive or in breach of media standards.