Unlicensed online fatwa accounts ordered to cease under Federal Law No. 3 of 2024

The UAE Council For FATWA has taken action against unlicensed online fatwa accounts, warning operators to cease publishing religious rulings without official approval. Under Federal Law No. 3 of 2024, individuals are prohibited from issuing fatwas through traditional media, social media platforms or other digital channels without prior authorisation from the council or the relevant local authority. The council identified accounts operating in breach of the law and instructed their operators to immediately cease issuing fatwas or publishing religious guidance until they obtain the necessary licence or permit. The law also bans the publication of rulings that could incite sectarian division or religious intolerance, as well as publicly challenging or undermining fatwas issued by the council. Authorities may close establishments or block websites found to be publishing fatwas in violation of the legal framework. The council urged the public to seek religious guidance only from officially recognised national fatwa institutions and authorised bodies.