We previously reported (click here) on the cyber protection laws introduced through the enactment of UAE Federal Law No. 34 of 2021 on Countering Rumors and Cybercrimes (the Cybercrimes Law) and how social media platforms can be used in the UAE.
In March 2025, the National Media Office (NMO) issued a statement calling on social media users in the UAE to reflect the UAE’s core values - respect, tolerance, and coexistence - in their online behavior. The NMO emphasized that all individuals share a collective responsibility in maintaining the country's positive image and social harmony. Key themes included:
Ethical and Legal Responsibilities Online
- The NMO highlighted the importance of adhering to both ethical and legal standards when using digital platforms.
- Content that disrespects or insults national symbols, public figures, or friendly nations and their people is strictly forbidden.
- Sharing misleading information, hate speech, or defamation - whether directly or implied - is considered a violation of UAE law and subject to serious legal penalties.
Enforcement and Public Accountability
- To ensure a safe and respectful digital space, the NMO confirmed that it works closely with relevant authorities to monitor online behavior and pursue legal action against those who breach these standards.
- The NMO also encouraged users to report offensive or non-compliant content through official channels, supporting national efforts to foster a credible and responsible media environment.
Citizens as Ambassadors of the Nation
- The NMO reiterated the message of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who reminded Emiratis that their actions - both positive and negative - reflect their national identity.
- He urged citizens to act in ways which uphold the UAE’s integrity through knowledge, upbringing, and cultural values and stated:
“We are all responsible for shaping the reputation of this country, as each of us is a guardian of its honour and standing”
Leadership’s Vision for Social Media Conduct
- The NMO also referenced the principles laid out by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai.
- These guidelines outline the characteristics of a presence on social media:
- embodying the wisdom and ethics of the Founding Father, the Late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan;
- promoting the UAE’s culture, knowledge, and civilisation;
- avoiding insults and offensive language;
- encouraging constructive discourse; and
- positively engaging with different ideas and cultures.
A Call for Responsible Digital Citizenship
- The NMO urged all social media users to reflect the moral values exemplified by the UAE’s leadership - marked by humility, respect, and high ethical standards.
- It called for responsible content creation and sharing, reminding citizens that their behavior online should align with the authentic customs and values of the UAE.
In a digital world increasingly characterised by ‘cancellation’ and ‘social media pile-on’, often with little if any regard to the truth or accuracy or what is being said and done from behind the anonymity of fake online persona, the UAE’s legal framework and focus on societal values, respect and harmony, is striking a very effective balance of participation in a digital world and ‘real world’ consequences that can arise as a result.