DUBAI, October 20, 2026 — Social media users across the United Arab Emirates have been put on notice: a single insulting comment posted online could land the author in jail and cost up to Dh500,000 in fines, authorities warned on Monday.
The warning forms part of the nationwide campaign “The UAE Is Safe with Your Digital Awareness,” launched by the Ministry of Interior in cooperation with Dubai Police and the Dubai Electronic Security Centre (DESC). The message was delivered through an awareness video released during Cybersecurity Awareness Month, observed every October.
Think Before You Comment
The campaign urges people to pause and consider how their words might affect others before hitting post, stressing that every user is legally responsible for the content they share online. Officials want social media to be a space for constructive expression and the respectful exchange of opinions — not personal attacks, mockery or offensive remarks.
“The initiative calls on the public to promote positive dialogue and mutual respect, helping create a safer and more welcoming digital environment that reflects the UAE’s social values,” the campaign’s message says.
What the Law Says
The campaign highlighted Article 43 of Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021 on Combating Rumours and Cybercrimes. Under the provision, anyone who insults another person — or attributes to them an incident that could expose them to punishment or public contempt — through an information network, information technology or an information system may face imprisonment and a fine of between Dh250,000 and Dh500,000, or either penalty.
The law also establishes an aggravating circumstance when the offence is committed against a public official or a person entrusted with a public service in connection with their duties, legal experts said.
A Broader Digital Safety Drive
“The UAE is safe with your digital awareness” is a comprehensive public education initiative covering cybercrime, online fraud and the misuse of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence. The campaign aims to strengthen digital literacy and encourage responsible online conduct across all segments of society.
The warning carries particular weight in a country with one of the world’s highest social media penetration rates. Legal experts told local media that residents should assume comments posted online carry real legal consequences — and consider the impact of their words before publishing or sharing anything.
The campaign runs throughout October as part of the UAE’s annual Cybersecurity Awareness Month observance.
