A media authority in the UAE has identified seven social media posts that are considered controversial due to the spread of false information and alleged disrespect toward the country’s national symbols and emblems.
Media authority in UAE points to seven controversial posts tied to misinformation and insult of national emblems.
Dr. Jamal Mohammed Al Kaabi, who serves as the Secretary General of the UAE National Media Authority, has recently emphasized a strong message regarding the responsible use of digital and social communication platforms in the country. In his remarks, he underlined that media regulations in the UAE are comprehensive and extend across all forms of communication, including both public and private online spaces. According to him, individuals should not assume that certain platforms are outside the scope of the law simply because they are informal or limited in audience.
He specifically pointed out that even private messaging environments, such as family WhatsApp groups, are not exempt from media legislation. In his explanation, he clarified that the nature of digital communication means that any content shared online or through messaging applications can still fall under regulatory oversight if it violates established rules. This includes messages, images, videos, or forwarded content that may spread misinformation, defame individuals, or insult national values and symbols.
Dr. Al Kaabi further warned that users must be mindful of what they share, even in what they believe to be closed or personal conversations. He explained that the law considers the impact and content of communication rather than just its intended audience. As a result, material circulated within private groups can still lead to legal consequences if it breaches UAE media regulations.
During his address, he highlighted several real-life instances where individuals faced legal action due to their online behavior. These cases reportedly involved a range of penalties, including prosecution, forced removal of digital content, deletion or suspension of social media accounts, and in more serious situations, imprisonment. He used these examples to demonstrate that enforcement of media laws is active and not merely theoretical, reinforcing the seriousness with which authorities treat violations.
He also categorized different types of offenses that fall under the scope of media violations. These categories include the dissemination of false or misleading news, the sharing of content that insults or disrespects national symbols or institutions, and the publication of material that may harm public order or social stability. Each category was illustrated with practical examples to help the public better understand what constitutes unacceptable behavior under the law.
According to him, the intention behind these regulations is not to restrict freedom of expression but to ensure that communication within society remains responsible, accurate, and respectful. He stressed that the rapid growth of digital platforms has increased the need for awareness, as information can now spread quickly and reach a wide audience within seconds. This makes it even more important for individuals to verify content before sharing it and to think carefully about the possible consequences of their online actions.
Dr. Al Kaabi’s remarks serve as a reminder that digital communication in the UAE operates within a structured legal framework designed to protect individuals, institutions, and national identity. He encouraged all users of social media and messaging applications to familiarize themselves with the relevant laws and to exercise caution when engaging in online discussions or sharing information.
1. Respecting religious beliefs.
One of the most serious examples mentioned in the discussion involved a video that had been widely shared across social media platforms in the UAE. The footage showed an individual travelling to several petrol stations within the country, where he approached employees and offered them money on the condition that they repeat the Islamic declaration of faith.
According to Dr. Jamal Mohammed Al Kaabi, Secretary General of the UAE National Media Authority, this particular act was regarded as highly inappropriate and deeply disrespectful. He explained that the content of the video was not treated as a harmless social experiment or casual online activity, but rather as a clear violation of religious sensitivities and legal protections that exist within the country. The behavior displayed in the video was seen as undermining the sanctity of Islamic beliefs, which are strongly safeguarded under UAE law.
Dr. Al Kaabi stressed that the incident crossed important legal and ethical boundaries because it involved the exploitation of a fundamental religious expression for entertainment or attention-seeking purposes. He noted that religious declarations hold profound meaning for believers, and using them in a transactional or staged manner can be perceived as insulting to faith and dignity. As a result, the act was not only socially controversial but also subject to legal scrutiny.
Authorities treated the matter seriously under existing regulations that prohibit the creation or dissemination of content considered offensive to Islam or other protected religious principles. The UAE’s legal framework includes specific provisions designed to prevent disrespect toward religious doctrine, and these rules apply to all forms of media content, including videos shared on social networking platforms.
The individual involved in the incident was held legally responsible for his actions. Officials confirmed that accountability measures were taken in accordance with the relevant laws, which may include penalties for producing or distributing material that is deemed harmful to religious harmony or public values. This response was intended to reinforce the importance of respecting cultural and religious norms within digital spaces.
Dr. Al Kaabi used this case as an example to illustrate the broader message that online behavior carries real-world consequences. He pointed out that the speed and reach of social media often encourage users to post content without fully considering its implications. However, he emphasized that digital platforms do not operate outside the boundaries of national law, and individuals remain responsible for what they create and share.
He further explained that the authorities aim to maintain a balance between freedom of expression and the protection of societal values. In this context, any content that is perceived as mocking, trivializing, or exploiting religious beliefs is treated with particular seriousness. The case served as a reminder that respect for religion is a foundational principle in the country’s legal and cultural framework.
Overall, the incident highlighted in his remarks demonstrates how certain types of online content can quickly escalate from social media trends to legal matters when they conflict with established norms. It also reinforces the expectation that users exercise caution, cultural awareness, and responsibility when engaging in digital storytelling or content creation.
2. Respecting law enforcement.
Another case cited during the discussion involved an incident in which an individual who had reportedly been connected to a theft situation ended up interacting with law enforcement officers while seeking assistance. Instead of engaging cooperatively with the authorities who were responding to the situation, the person chose to record video footage of the officers as they were carrying out their duties at the scene.
According to Dr. Jamal Mohammed Al Kaabi, Secretary General of the UAE National Media Authority, this behavior raised serious concerns under the country’s media and public order regulations. He explained that the individual did not stop recording even after being instructed multiple times by the officers to refrain from filming them. Despite these repeated warnings, the person continued to capture and later circulate the footage.
Dr. Al Kaabi clarified that such actions are not permitted under UAE law, particularly when they involve filming law enforcement personnel while they are actively performing their official responsibilities. He emphasized that police officers and other public servants operate under a legal framework that protects their ability to carry out duties without unnecessary interference or unauthorized recording. The law is designed to ensure that operational procedures, investigations, and emergency responses are not disrupted or misrepresented through uncontrolled documentation.
The video in question was subsequently shared on social media platforms, where it gained attention and was widely circulated. However, authorities treated the matter as more than just an online post, as it involved the broader issue of respecting institutional authority and maintaining public order. Dr. Al Kaabi noted that publishing such content without authorization can lead to misunderstandings about the context of police activity and may potentially compromise ongoing procedures or investigations.
He further explained that the regulations in place are not intended to prevent transparency or accountability, but rather to regulate how and when recordings of official personnel can be made and distributed. In many situations, filming law enforcement without consent, especially during active operations, is considered a violation because it may interfere with their work or expose sensitive information.
In this particular case, the authorities viewed the conduct as a breach of established rules governing interaction with public institutions. The emphasis, Dr. Al Kaabi explained, is on ensuring that individuals respect the authority of law enforcement officers while they are executing their responsibilities, particularly in situations that involve investigations or active incidents.
He also highlighted that modern communication technologies have made it easier than ever for individuals to record and instantly share videos with large audiences. While this can sometimes serve positive purposes, such as documenting misconduct or raising awareness, it also carries risks when used inappropriately or without understanding legal boundaries. The misuse of recording devices in sensitive situations can escalate tensions and create unnecessary complications for authorities working to resolve incidents.
Dr. Al Kaabi pointed out that this case serves as a reminder that digital content creation is subject to legal oversight, especially when it intersects with matters of public safety and governance. He reiterated that individuals must be aware that recording government officials or security personnel is not automatically permitted and is regulated by specific legal provisions.
He also stressed the importance of public cooperation with law enforcement agencies. In situations where individuals are receiving assistance or are involved in investigations, the expectation is that they comply with instructions given by officers rather than engage in actions that could hinder their work. Cooperation, he said, is essential for ensuring that incidents are resolved efficiently and safely.
Ultimately, this example was used to illustrate how even seemingly minor actions, such as recording a video during a police interaction, can have legal implications when they conflict with national regulations. It reinforces the broader message that individuals must exercise caution, respect authority, and understand the boundaries of acceptable behavior when interacting with public institutions and sharing content online.
3. Protecting cultural heritage and national identity.
He further highlighted concerns over the inappropriate use of the Emirati national attire, the kandura, stating that any portrayal or usage that undermines its dignity or misrepresents its cultural value is considered a violation under UAE regulations. He explained that the kandura is not merely traditional clothing but a strong symbol of Emirati identity, heritage, and national pride. As such, it must be treated with respect in all contexts. He added that whether the misuse appears in comedic content, advertising, or any other form of media, any act that diminishes its significance will be subject to legal action.
4. The national currency.
Another illustrative case involved a promotional campaign by a flower shop during the Valentine’s Day season. In the video, the business showcased an offer featuring ten luxury bouquets, each priced at around Dh10,000. What made the advertisement unusual was that each arrangement included elements of the national currency integrated into the design as part of the gifting concept.
Authorities noted that while using money as part of a gift presentation is not automatically prohibited, the issue in this instance was the way the content was conceptualized and presented to the public. According to Dr. Jamal Mohammed Al Kaabi, the framing of the promotion, which suggested distributing such high-value currency-themed bouquets from one individual to multiple recipients, was seen as crossing acceptable cultural and regulatory boundaries. It gave the impression of commercialising the national currency in a manner that diminished its symbolic importance and could be viewed as disrespectful.
As a result, the media authority intervened. The flower shop concerned was called in for clarification, and the promotional video was removed from circulation. The business also received an official warning outlining the relevant regulations governing advertising practices and the limits of acceptable use of national symbols in marketing content.
Dr. Al Kaabi explained that this incident falls under rules designed to protect the dignity and respect of the national currency, ensuring it is not used in ways that could undermine its value or cultural significance. He also referred to another example in which an individual placed a dirham coin on burning charcoal and then placed oud incense on top, a depiction also considered inappropriate due to its treatment of the currency in a disrespectful context.
5. Privacy violations
The Secretary General also highlighted what he described as an increasingly common issue involving people being recorded in public spaces without their awareness or permission, with such videos later uploaded and circulated across social media platforms. He explained that this practice raises serious concerns under UAE media and privacy regulations, particularly when individuals are captured in situations where they have not agreed to be filmed.
He emphasized that the rule does not only apply to ordinary members of the public but also extends to public figures and celebrities. Even if a person is widely recognized, their status does not automatically remove their right to privacy in every circumstance. If a well-known individual has not given consent to be recorded, or is present in a context where filming would be considered inappropriate or intrusive, then capturing and distributing that footage can still amount to a violation.
He further noted that sharing such content online without permission can lead to legal consequences, as it may infringe on personal privacy rights and potentially harm the dignity of the individuals involved. The key point, he explained, is that the act of filming and publishing is regulated, and users are expected to exercise judgment and respect when documenting real-life situations.
6. Fake news: The Covid-19 family story
Dr. Jamal Mohammed Al Kaabi also referred to one of the most serious misinformation incidents recorded in the UAE, describing it as a case that showed how quickly false narratives can spread and create unnecessary fear among the public. The incident involved a completely made-up story that alleged that five members of a single family had lost their lives due to COVID-19. According to the fabricated report, the tragedy was presented as a real event and was circulated through media channels, leading many people to believe it was true.
He explained that the story gained wide attention shortly after it was broadcast and shared across different platforms, which caused significant concern and emotional distress among members of the public. However, when authorities began investigating the claims, it became clear that the entire narrative had no basis in reality. Not only were the reported deaths untrue, but the family mentioned in the story did not exist at all, making it a complete fabrication.
As the investigation progressed, authorities identified those responsible for producing and disseminating the false information. Two individuals were ultimately taken into custody in connection with the case, one of whom was a television correspondent. Legal action was taken against them, and they were sentenced to imprisonment for their role in spreading misinformation that had serious social consequences.
Dr. Al Kaabi used this incident to highlight the broader responsibilities that come with sharing information, whether through professional journalism or personal social media use. He emphasized that both media professionals and ordinary users are expected to verify facts before publishing or forwarding content, particularly when it involves sensitive issues such as public health or human tragedy. Failure to do so, he noted, can lead to widespread confusion and undermine public trust.
He also reflected on his own experience during the COVID-19 period, explaining that he was actively involved in efforts to document and understand the real conditions faced by affected families. Working under the direction of national leadership, he and his team focused on verifying cases, assessing financial difficulties, and identifying families in need of assistance. This work involved direct engagement with real individuals and careful fact-checking to ensure that support was directed appropriately.
By comparing this structured and evidence-based approach with the fabricated report, he underscored the difference between responsible information gathering and the deliberate creation of false stories. He pointed out that accurate reporting during crises plays an essential role in guiding government response and providing timely help to those in need, whereas misinformation can distort reality and divert attention away from genuine cases requiring support.
He also recalled the reaction of national leaders when the truth about the false report came to light. According to him, they expressed concern and questioned why such a situation had not been brought to their attention if it had actually occurred. This reaction further demonstrated how misinformation can mislead even senior decision-makers and create confusion at the highest levels.
Overall, he used this case as a powerful example of the dangers associated with spreading unverified content. It illustrated not only the legal consequences that can follow but also the emotional, social, and institutional impact that false information can have when it is allowed to circulate unchecked.
7. The Iranian cell: False information
Dr. Jamal Mohammed Al Kaabi referred to another significant incident that demonstrated how quickly speculation and unverified information can escalate in the digital space, particularly during sensitive security-related developments. He explained that when news emerged regarding the arrest of a group allegedly linked to Iran operating within the UAE, authorities disclosed the identities of the individuals involved as part of official reporting. Among those named were citizens of the UAE.
Following this disclosure, members of the public began actively searching for more information about the individuals on social media and other online platforms. Many people attempted to piece together personal details, including their backgrounds, workplaces, and social networks. This widespread online activity led to the rapid circulation of assumptions and claims, some of which were not based on verified facts.
Dr. Al Kaabi highlighted that one of the individuals whose name appeared in public discussions was incorrectly associated with a specific company operating in the UAE. This connection, however, was inaccurate. Despite this, the false association spread online, leading to confusion and concern. The company in question eventually became aware of the situation and formally lodged a complaint with the relevant authorities, clarifying that the individual had no connection to its operations.
Authorities took the matter seriously, particularly because the spread of incorrect information had the potential to damage reputations and mislead the public during an ongoing sensitive case. Investigations were carried out to identify those responsible for circulating unverified claims about the suspects. Dr. Al Kaabi noted that individuals involved in sharing or amplifying such misinformation were summoned by the authorities.
Legal consequences followed, and those found responsible were subjected to imprisonment for violating regulations related to the dissemination of false or misleading information. This action, he explained, reflects the seriousness with which UAE law treats the spread of inaccurate content, especially when it concerns matters of national security or active investigations.
He emphasized that situations involving security cases require a high level of caution from the public. While information may be partially released by official sources, any additional speculation or attempt to fill in gaps with assumptions can lead to serious consequences. He pointed out that even well-intentioned sharing of unverified details can contribute to misinformation and create unintended harm.
Dr. Al Kaabi used this example to underline a broader legal principle: that sharing unconfirmed information about ongoing investigations is not a harmless act, but one that may fall under criminal liability. He explained that UAE media and cybercrime laws are designed to prevent the spread of false narratives that could interfere with investigations, damage reputations, or mislead society during critical events.
He further stressed that digital platforms have amplified the speed at which information spreads, making it even more important for individuals to verify content before sharing it. In fast-moving situations such as security operations, rumors can quickly be mistaken for facts, and once misinformation spreads widely, it becomes difficult to correct.
Ultimately, he presented this case as a cautionary example of the responsibilities that come with accessing and sharing information in the digital age. It reinforced the idea that legal boundaries apply not only to traditional media outlets but also to individual users on social networks, and that accountability extends to anyone who contributes to the spread of false or misleading content.
Dr. Jamal Mohammed Al Kaabi also spoke in detail about the scale of regulatory action being taken against harmful digital content on social media platforms, highlighting a major enforcement drive targeting TikTok accounts. He revealed that approximately 10,000 accounts on the platform had been removed as part of a coordinated effort by the authorities. These accounts, he explained, were not simply engaging in harmless content creation, but were instead involved in publishing material that raised serious concerns for public safety, social stability, and national reputation.
According to him, a significant portion of the removed content included videos generated using artificial intelligence tools, which were being used to create misleading or manipulated narratives. Some of these videos were designed to distort perceptions about life in the UAE, including false portrayals of Dubai and other emirates. He noted that such content often appeared realistic at first glance, making it more dangerous because it could easily mislead viewers who were unaware of its artificial origins.
He further explained that beyond misinformation, some of the removed accounts were also promoting ideas and themes considered harmful to social values. This included narratives that could negatively influence young audiences, particularly children and adolescents, who are more vulnerable to persuasive or emotionally engaging digital content. In his remarks, he emphasized that protecting younger generations from such exposure is a key priority for regulatory bodies, especially in an era where social media consumption is widespread and constant.
Moving to another sector, Dr. Al Kaabi addressed developments in the gaming industry and the evolving approach taken by UAE authorities toward video game regulation. He referred to earlier decisions in which certain titles, such as “Grand Theft Auto,” had been restricted or blocked within the country due to their content. However, he clarified that the regulatory approach is now shifting in a more structured direction, focusing less on blanket bans and more on systematic classification based on age suitability.
He explained that instead of completely prohibiting the sale of such games, the new framework aims to allow their availability in the market under clearly defined conditions. Retailers will be permitted to sell age-restricted games, but only in accordance with strict rating systems that ensure they are not accessible to underage users. This change, he noted, reflects a more balanced regulatory model that acknowledges both the commercial importance of the gaming industry and the need to protect children from inappropriate content.
Dr. Al Kaabi also highlighted an additional dimension of this policy, stating that revenue generated from the sale of age-restricted gaming products would not simply remain within commercial circulation. Instead, a portion of these proceeds would be directed toward the UAE Child Council. The purpose of this allocation is to support educational initiatives and awareness programs aimed at both children and parents, helping them understand responsible gaming habits and the potential risks associated with excessive or inappropriate gameplay.
He stressed that this approach reflects a broader vision of using regulatory mechanisms not only for restriction but also for constructive social benefit. By channeling resources into awareness and education, the aim is to create a more informed society that can engage with digital entertainment responsibly while minimizing potential harm.
Throughout his address, Dr. Al Kaabi consistently returned to a central theme: the universality and enforceability of UAE media laws. He made it clear that these regulations are not limited to a specific group, profession, or platform. Instead, they apply equally across the entire spectrum of communication channels, ranging from traditional broadcast television and newspapers to modern digital platforms, including social media applications and even private messaging groups.
He reiterated that no individual can claim exemption from these laws based on ignorance or misunderstanding. According to him, awareness of legal obligations is a fundamental responsibility of anyone who participates in the digital space. Whether content is shared publicly or within seemingly private environments, it remains subject to legal scrutiny if it violates established rules.
He also warned that the consequences for non-compliance can vary depending on the severity of the violation. In some cases, individuals may receive formal warnings or have their content removed from platforms. In more serious situations, penalties can escalate to account suspension, legal proceedings, detention, or even imprisonment. The determining factor, he explained, is the nature of the content and its potential impact on society, public order, or national values.
Concluding his remarks, Dr. Al Kaabi emphasized that the objective of these regulations is not to suppress creativity or limit freedom of expression. Instead, he described the intent as protective in nature, focused on safeguarding the stability, cultural identity, and ethical foundations of society. He stated that a well-regulated media environment is essential for ensuring that information flows in a responsible manner and does not become a source of harm or confusion.
He summed up this position by saying that the goal of the UAE’s media framework is to ensure that all forms of communication, whether traditional or digital, contribute positively to the country’s development and social cohesion. In his words, the media environment should function as a tool that supports national interests, strengthens community values, and promotes accurate and responsible information sharing, rather than becoming a channel for misinformation or disruption.
