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Using social media platforms in the UAE comes with responsibilities, content posted online is guided by the provisions of the UAE Cybercrime Law and social media laws implemented by the National Media Council. Therefore, anything that the influencers or creators post, like content that is contrary to the religious and ethical values of the UAE will be subject to a hefty fine.
We have seen several cases in the past few weeks, where social media influencers and content creators on TikTok or Instagram with huge followings in UAE, got carried away and used abusive or foul language, encouraged hate speech, anger, and even insulted cultural values by featuring misleading attitudes in their videos in an attempt to make their content funny and engaging.
The UAE’s Federal Prosecution for Combating Rumours and Cybercrimes has arrested an individual of Asian descent following the circulation of a viral video on social media. The video showed the person displaying a large amount of money inside a luxury car showroom in the UAE. pic.twitter.com/EsElvWD0zZ
— Startup Dubai (@RealStartupDXB) July 10, 2023
Actions were taken and fines were imposed by the authorities making sure they set a good example for social media influencers to understand how important it is for individuals to comply with the regulations and guidelines set by local authorities, as well as the provisions outlined in the UAE Cybercrime Law.
Read more about the laws in the link.
We all agree to the fact that UAE opens the door for the most favorable opportunities for leveraging social media as a content creator, but at the same time it is crucial to exercise some responsibility. And if at all, you don’t take care of what you are posting, the authorities will.
Here are some fundamental social media guidelines and hefty fines one must consider before breaking any rules in the UAE:
Social media Laws about posting religious content
There is always confusion among influencers and citizens around posting religious content and offending the religious beliefs of anyone. So what are the things to keep in mind before posting any religious content?
Try and attempt to avoid making any derogatory or offensive online posts, hurting religious sentiments, or maligning any religion or its beliefs. As per Article 37 of the UAE Cybercrime Law, such a rule break will attract:
- Imprisonment of up to 7 years, and
- Fine from Dh250,000 to Dh1 million
Rules when it comes to posting content about the government
We have seen controversies around citizens posting content criticizing government or government-run organizations, hospitals, etc. So what it is that an individual need to consider before offending the government and attracting penalties around the same?
Individuals must refrain from sharing online any content against the government or government departments, the ruling regime, symbols, the political system of the UAE, and any other countries as per the provisions of Article 20 to Article 28 of the UAE Cybercrime Law.
Defaming a public sector employee in the UAE using online platforms and more such offenses are taken very seriously by the authorities attracting huge fines.
Posting videos and photographs of other citizens
You can’t post photos or videos of other individuals without their knowledge or permission. Content creators must refrain from engaging in online activities quoting individuals, sharing videos without permission, making threats, disseminating inaccurate information from authoritative sources, and engaging in gossip or defamation.
These are considered illegal acts as they are invading someone’s privacy and under Article 44 of the UAE Cybercrime Law such offenses may attract:
- Imprisonment of at least six months, and
- Fines from Dh150,000 to Dh500,000
Laws around publishing content about women and children
UAE has very strict rules considering the safety of women and children, making it the safest place for women in the world a year ago and the country has been maintaining the position as of now.
As a content creator, avoid sharing any content that poses harm to women or children in any way, including but not limited to acts against public morals as per Article 32 to Article 34 of the UAE Cybercrime law. Such offenses may attract imprisonment ranging from one to five years and penalties from Dh250,000 to Dh1 million.
Things to keep in mind as a social media influencer
As a social media influencer or content creator, relying on social media and paid advertisements, it is advisable to acquire a license from the National Media Council or an appropriate regulatory body in the UAE.
The NMC license does not apply to bloggers, personal websites, and individuals who advertise their own brands on social media. Additionally, it does not apply to those who provide unpaid product reviews (if they are independent of the company they are reviewing and receive no payment).
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