The UAE’s National Media Authority has taken legal action against a female resident over social media content that authorities said insulted Emirati women and breached the country’s media-content standards.
The resident’s Mu’lin, or Advertiser Permit, has been suspended for three months, according to the authority. The action highlights the rules governing social media posts, livestreams and advertising content in the UAE.
The National Media Authority said the material published through the resident’s social media account undermined the status and contributions of Emirati women. It said such content would not be tolerated when it conflicts with community values or the UAE’s national identity.
The case follows a separate action earlier this month involving two people accused of posting offensive material during a social media livestream. The authority said that content violated standards relating to cultural heritage, national identity and prevailing values. One of those involved also had a Mu’lin Permit suspended for three months.
The two cases are separate, but they demonstrate how online content can come under regulatory scrutiny when authorities determine that it crosses established standards.
The UAE’s media rules cover much more than traditional journalism. They also apply to advertising and media content published by individuals through social media, websites and other digital platforms.
Content that insults or denigrates individuals in ways that conflict with societal values can attract regulatory action. The standards also restrict material that attacks religion, national identity or state institutions, threatens social cohesion, promotes hatred or division, encourages violence or criminal activity, or spreads false and misleading information.
Privacy violations and the publication of material from another person’s private life can also fall under the rules. Advertising content must similarly comply with UAE cultural values and national identity.
A Mu’lin Permit is issued by the National Media Authority to people who publish advertising or media content through digital channels, regardless of whether the content is paid or unpaid.
Authorities can impose several administrative measures for media violations, including warnings, fines ranging from Dh1,000 to Dh1 million, temporary closure of establishments and cancellation or suspension of licences, permits and approvals. Repeat violations can result in higher fines, subject to the applicable legal framework.
Separately, UAE cybercrime legislation contains provisions covering online insults and accusations against individuals. Such offences can carry imprisonment and fines ranging from Dh250,000 to Dh500,000.
The latest action underscores the importance of checking online content before publishing or sharing it. Users are encouraged to verify information, avoid exposing private details and consider whether posts could violate laws concerning public morals, social harmony, national identity or personal dignity.
With social media increasingly used for advertising, commentary and livestreaming, UAE authorities have indicated that digital content remains subject to the country’s wider media and cybercrime rules.
