An overview of the legal situations in which UAE authorities are allowed to disclose the identities and personal details of offenders to the public through official announcements or media channels.
How and when UAE authorities are permitted to publicise offenders’ details.
Legal professionals in the UAE have shed light on the important legal distinction between information officially released by government authorities in major criminal investigations and the unlawful exposure of individuals by private citizens on social media or other online platforms. According to legal experts, while state institutions are authorised under UAE law to publish details relating to certain crimes and suspects in carefully regulated circumstances, ordinary residents who publicly accuse, shame, or identify people online without permission can themselves face criminal prosecution, including imprisonment and fines that may reach Dh500,000.
Over the past few years, UAE authorities have increasingly issued public statements regarding major criminal investigations, especially in cases involving terrorism, national security threats, cybercrime, public morality offences, or activities considered harmful to the country’s social stability. These disclosures are generally made through official government channels and are intended to inform the public, maintain transparency, or protect public safety.
At the same time, legal experts have stressed that residents should not confuse these official announcements with a personal right to expose others online. Lawyers say many social media users mistakenly believe they can freely post allegations, publish private information, or identify suspected offenders on digital platforms, even before courts issue final judgments. However, UAE law draws a clear line between authorised disclosures by state institutions and unauthorised online accusations made by individuals.
Abu Dhabi-based legal experts told Insider 18 that the determining factor is the existence of legal authority. Government prosecutors and judicial authorities operate under powers specifically granted to them through UAE legislation, while ordinary citizens are prohibited from taking such actions independently. The legal system places responsibility for criminal investigations and public communication in the hands of official institutions rather than private individuals.
Legal consultant and UAE law specialist Hesham Elrafei explained that the Attorney General possesses the legal authority to determine whether information connected to criminal investigations should be shared publicly. According to Elrafei, this authority is clearly established under Article 7 of the UAE Criminal Procedure Law, which grants prosecutors discretion over the release of criminal information to the public.
“The law gives the Attorney General the power to decide how and when to share information about crimes with the public,” Elrafei explained while discussing the issue. He noted that decisions regarding public disclosure are generally made after considering legal, social, and security-related factors. Authorities may decide to release details about suspects, arrests, or convictions when they believe the information serves a legitimate public interest.
According to legal analysts, such official disclosures are often connected to serious offences that may affect national security, public confidence, or social order. In some situations, authorities may believe it is necessary to reassure the public, warn residents about certain activities, or demonstrate that action is being taken against criminal behaviour.
One recent example involved the UAE’s announcement concerning arrests allegedly linked to a terrorist cell said to have connections with Iran. Authorities publicly disclosed details of the operation because of the serious national security implications surrounding the case. The announcement formed part of official efforts to keep the public informed while highlighting measures being taken to protect national stability and public safety.
Another widely discussed incident involved an Emirati man who received a three-year prison sentence and a Dh500,000 fine after being convicted of promoting underage marriage through online content. Authorities publicly addressed the matter due to the social and moral concerns linked to the offence. Legal experts noted that such announcements can also serve as deterrents intended to discourage similar behaviour among the public.
However, lawyers emphasised that residents themselves do not possess the same legal powers to expose or accuse others online. UAE cybercrime and defamation laws impose strict penalties on individuals who misuse digital platforms to damage reputations, spread allegations, or invade privacy. Even if someone believes they are acting in the public interest, publishing accusations online without legal authorisation may still constitute a criminal offence.
Legal specialists explained that many people underestimate the seriousness of online activity under UAE law. Social media posts, forwarded messages, comments, videos, and screenshots can all be treated as forms of publication subject to legal scrutiny. In some cases, individuals have faced prosecution simply for reposting allegations originally shared by others.
Experts warned that public accusations made online can cause serious reputational damage, especially before courts determine whether a person is guilty or innocent. For this reason, UAE law generally discourages “trial by social media” and instead places responsibility for criminal investigations and public communication with official authorities and the judicial system.
Lawyers also highlighted that privacy protections are strongly enforced in the UAE. Publishing photographs, videos, names, or identifying information about suspects, victims, or private individuals without permission may violate privacy laws even when the content relates to real events. Authorities have repeatedly cautioned residents against recording or sharing footage of people involved in disputes, accidents, or criminal investigations.
According to Elrafei, official disclosures by prosecutors differ significantly from personal online accusations because government authorities operate within a structured legal framework. Prosecutors and law enforcement agencies are required to follow legal procedures, assess evidence, and consider public interest before releasing information. Their actions are also subject to institutional oversight and accountability.
By contrast, private individuals posting accusations online often do so without verification, legal review, or due process protections. This creates risks of false allegations, misinformation, reputational harm, and interference with ongoing investigations. Legal experts said this is one of the primary reasons UAE legislation strictly limits the ability of ordinary residents to publicly identify suspects or discuss ongoing criminal matters in detail.
Other legal professionals in Abu Dhabi echoed similar concerns, particularly regarding the increasing role of social media in shaping public opinion. They noted that online platforms can rapidly spread information, rumours, and accusations to large audiences within minutes. Even inaccurate or misleading claims can cause lasting harm once shared publicly.
Experts said that under UAE law, defamation and cyber-related offences are treated seriously regardless of whether the statements are made verbally, in writing, or online. Insulting others, making accusations without proof, or publishing damaging content through electronic means may all attract criminal penalties. Depending on the circumstances, offenders may face imprisonment, fines, deportation for expatriates, or restrictions on digital activity.
Legal observers also pointed out that some residents mistakenly assume that deleting online posts later will protect them from liability. However, screenshots, archived content, and digital evidence can still be used during investigations and court proceedings.
Authorities in the UAE have repeatedly encouraged residents to rely on official legal channels rather than social media when dealing with disputes or suspected crimes. Individuals who believe they have been victims of criminal conduct are advised to report incidents directly to police or prosecutors instead of attempting to expose suspects publicly online.
Experts further explained that media organisations operate under different standards compared with ordinary social media users. Journalists reporting on criminal cases generally rely on information officially released by authorities or presented during court proceedings. Professional media outlets are also subject to legal and regulatory requirements governing accuracy, privacy, and responsible reporting.
By contrast, personal social media accounts often lack such safeguards, increasing the risk of harmful or misleading content being distributed without proper verification. Lawyers warned that even well-intentioned online campaigns can cross legal boundaries if they involve public accusations, disclosure of private details, or defamatory commentary.
The rise of digital communication has significantly increased the importance of legal awareness in the UAE. Legal professionals say many cybercrime cases involve individuals who did not fully understand the consequences of their online behaviour. As a result, experts encourage residents to familiarise themselves with UAE cybercrime laws and exercise caution before posting or sharing potentially sensitive material.
According to legal analysts, the UAE legal framework aims to strike a balance between transparency, public safety, and individual rights. Official authorities may disclose details in serious cases when justified by public interest or security concerns, but privacy and due process remain central principles of the justice system.
This balance is particularly important in criminal investigations, where premature or inaccurate accusations can unfairly damage reputations and compromise legal proceedings. Courts ultimately remain responsible for determining guilt or innocence, and legal experts stress that suspects should not be publicly condemned before judicial processes are completed.
Specialists also noted that official disclosures are often carefully worded to avoid prejudicing ongoing investigations. Authorities may choose to release limited details while withholding sensitive information that could affect court proceedings, compromise evidence, or endanger individuals involved in the case.
In cases involving terrorism, organised crime, or threats to national security, official statements may additionally serve strategic purposes, including reassuring the public, discouraging criminal activity, or demonstrating the effectiveness of law enforcement operations.
The distinction between authorised government disclosures and unlawful online exposure therefore remains a critical aspect of UAE law. While official institutions possess legally defined powers to communicate information in specific circumstances, private individuals who attempt to expose or accuse others online risk facing serious legal consequences themselves.
Legal experts concluded that residents should be cautious when discussing criminal matters online and avoid participating in social media campaigns that identify or shame individuals. Instead, they encouraged people to rely on verified information released through official channels and allow law enforcement agencies and courts to handle investigations according to established legal procedures.
As digital platforms continue to influence communication and public debate, lawyers say understanding the boundaries of lawful online conduct has become increasingly important for everyone living in the UAE.
Legal experts in the UAE have further clarified that courts may, in certain criminal cases, order the publication of an offender’s identity and the details of the judgment as part of the legal penalty itself. According to legal specialist Hesham Elrafei, this applies to specific offences outlined under UAE legislation, including crimes such as impersonating a public official.
Elrafei explained that Article 301 of the UAE Crimes and Penalties Law allows courts to direct that the convicted individual’s name, along with the court ruling, be publicly announced through newspapers or other media outlets. In such situations, the convicted person may also be required to bear the financial cost of publishing the announcement. He noted that this form of publication is considered part of the judicial punishment imposed after legal proceedings have been completed and a final judgment has been issued.
he legal expert stressed that these disclosures are carried out only under judicial authority and through official legal procedures. Courts decide whether publicising a conviction is appropriate based on the seriousness of the offence, the public interest involved, and the legal provisions governing the case. Such measures are intended to reinforce accountability, deter similar crimes, and maintain public confidence in the justice system.
At the same time, Elrafei warned that residents cannot independently take on the role of exposing or identifying alleged offenders through social media or online platforms. He explained that there is a major legal difference between official announcements issued by prosecutors or courts and personal online posts made by private individuals.
“Official announcements are issued by the Attorney General in order to serve the public interest and maintain transparency,” Elrafei explained while discussing the issue. He emphasised that these actions are performed within the framework of the law and under authorised judicial supervision. “Citizens themselves do not have the authority to do this,” he added.
According to legal experts, many people mistakenly assume that sharing accusations or exposing others online is acceptable if they believe wrongdoing has occurred. However, UAE law imposes strict limits on publishing information about individuals without legal authority, particularly if the content affects a person’s reputation, privacy, or dignity.
An adviser from the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department, who spoke anonymously, also highlighted that only judicial authorities have the power to approve the release of identities or case details connected to criminal investigations and court proceedings. He explained that government entities themselves cannot disclose such information unless proper authorisation has been granted through the legal system.
“No government body can publicly announce these matters without approval from the judicial authorities,” the adviser said. He noted that the process of releasing information is carefully regulated in order to balance transparency with the protection of individual rights.
The adviser further warned that ordinary individuals who publish personal information, photographs, videos, or allegations about others without legal permission could themselves face criminal liability. Under UAE law, such actions may amount to offences involving defamation, invasion of privacy, misuse of electronic communication platforms, or cybercrime-related violations.
“If a person shares another individual’s details, images, or private information without legal authority, this may itself constitute a criminal offence,” the adviser explained. He stressed that social media users should exercise caution before posting or forwarding content involving accusations or personal information.
Legal experts said UAE legislation strongly protects privacy rights and personal dignity. The law places significant importance on safeguarding an individual’s home, safety, freedom, reputation, and private life from unlawful interference or public exposure.
“The law protects people’s privacy, reputation, safety, and personal lives,” the legal adviser stated. “When someone publicly exposes another person without official permission, it may be treated as defamation or a violation of privacy rights.”
According to specialists, these legal protections apply both offline and online. Digital platforms, including messaging applications and social media networks, are subject to UAE cybercrime regulations, meaning online activity can carry the same legal consequences as actions committed in traditional public settings.
Lawyers explained that even reposting content created by others may lead to legal responsibility if the material contains defamatory accusations, unauthorised disclosures, or harmful personal information. In some cases, individuals have faced prosecution simply for forwarding videos, screenshots, or messages without verifying whether the content violated privacy or defamation laws.
Experts also pointed out that UAE courts generally treat online defamation seriously because of the speed and scale at which harmful content can spread digitally. Information shared on social media can quickly reach large audiences and remain accessible indefinitely, potentially causing lasting reputational damage even if allegations later prove false.
The legal framework in the UAE therefore aims to prevent individuals from acting as self-appointed investigators or judges through online platforms. Authorities encourage residents to report suspected wrongdoing directly to police or prosecutors rather than attempting to expose individuals publicly themselves.
Specialists added that official disclosures by prosecutors or courts are typically based on legal assessments involving public interest, national security, or judicial necessity. By contrast, unauthorised online exposure often lacks procedural safeguards, evidence verification, or consideration for due process rights.
Legal professionals warned that people should avoid assuming that public curiosity or social media attention justifies sharing private details about others. Even in cases where criminal investigations are already known publicly, there are still legal limits governing what information private individuals may publish or circulate online.
The adviser from the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department emphasised that UAE law seeks to strike a balance between transparency and the protection of individual rights. Official institutions may release information when legally justified, but privacy and reputation remain fundamental protections guaranteed under the legal system.
Experts concluded that residents should rely only on verified information issued through official channels and avoid engaging in online exposure campaigns, public accusations, or unauthorised sharing of personal details. They stressed that allowing courts and prosecutors to manage criminal cases through proper legal procedures is essential to preserving fairness, due process, and public trust in the justice system.
What if the information is true?
Under the UAE Cybercrime Law, individuals may face strict penalties for committing online defamation or insulting others, with punishments that can include imprisonment and financial penalties ranging from Dh250,000 to Dh500,000. In addition, sharing photographs, statements, or any form of information that infringes on another person’s privacy through digital platforms can also lead to serious legal consequences, including jail terms of at least six months and fines that may reach up to Dh500,000.
Legal experts emphasise that these penalties can still apply even if the information shared is factually accurate. As explained by legal consultant Hesham Elrafei, the law criminalises the act of publishing private content with the intention of harming another individual’s reputation, “even if it is true.” He referred to provisions under Article 431 of the UAE Crimes and Penalties Law, along with Article 44 of the Cybercrime Law, which collectively address offences related to defamation, privacy breaches, and misuse of electronic communication platforms.
Elrafei further noted that legal responsibility is not limited to the original publisher of such content. Individuals who repost, forward, or circulate defamatory or private material may also be held accountable under the law. This is because the Cybercrime Law explicitly covers actions involving both the initial publication and the redistribution of unlawful content, meaning that sharing harmful material on social media or messaging apps can also lead to prosecution.
A legal advisor from the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD), speaking anonymously, pointed out that one of the most common misunderstandings among residents is the belief that legal standards in the UAE are identical to those in other countries. He explained that many newcomers assume that behaviours permitted elsewhere are automatically acceptable in the UAE, without realising that local laws are often stricter and more specific in regulating online conduct.
“Many people believe that what is allowed in other countries is also allowed here,” the advisor said. “For instance, recording incidents in public spaces and uploading them on social media may be considered normal in some places, but in the UAE there are clear regulations governing photography, privacy rights, and online publishing.”
He stressed that residents must be aware that even seemingly harmless actions, such as filming or sharing content without consent, can potentially lead to legal issues if they violate privacy laws or portray individuals in a negative or unauthorised manner.
Both legal experts highlighted that, in certain serious or high-profile cases, UAE authorities may choose to publicly release information related to criminal investigations. However, such disclosures are strictly controlled and are typically carried out only when there is a clear legal justification, such as public interest, safety concerns, or judicial necessity.
Past instances
The UAE has, in the past, issued public warnings indicating that in exceptional situations, offenders may be named as part of broader deterrence efforts aimed at discouraging violations of the law.
For example, during the Covid-19 pandemic, the UAE Public Prosecution publicly released identifying details — including names, initials, and photographs — of individuals accused of breaching health and safety regulations. These violations included breaking curfew rules, participating in prohibited gatherings or private events, travelling during restricted hours, and failing to comply with mask requirements inside vehicles. In a notable 2020 incident, authorities disclosed the identities of 13 people who were penalised with fines ranging from Dh2,000 to Dh10,000 for different breaches of pandemic-related regulations. Officials clarified that such public disclosure was intended as a deterrent to prevent others from engaging in similar conduct.
Similarly, Dubai Police announced during the pandemic that individuals found violating or ridiculing the government’s “stay home, stay safe” campaign online could also have their identities publicly revealed for the first time, in addition to facing legal penalties. At that time, Colonel Saeed Al Hajeri, who headed the Cybercrime Department within the Criminal Investigation Department at Dubai Police, stated that enforcement measures had already begun against online offenders, including arrests and fines, and warned that some cases could result in the publication of names, photographs, and nationalities through official media outlets.
According to legal expert Hesham Elrafei, such measures are exercised only under specific legal authority and are typically reserved for situations where there is a broader public interest. He explained that the Attorney General may invoke this power when it is deemed necessary to protect society, prevent similar violations, or maintain public order and national security.
“This authority is used when it serves the public interest,” Elrafei noted, adding that it is generally applied in circumstances where public warnings are required, deterrence is needed to discourage repeated offences, or when safeguarding the community and ensuring stability becomes a priority.
Broader deterrence strategy
Legal professionals note that in recent years the UAE has increasingly emphasised transparency and more prominent enforcement in certain cases involving public interest and online misconduct, although this continues to operate within a strictly regulated legal system.
Ibtissem Lassoud, Head of White Collar Crime at Al Tamimi & Company, explained that these developments should not be interpreted as random or unchecked public naming and shaming, but rather as part of a structured approach aimed at deterrence and ensuring compliance with the law.
She referred to examples such as a 2025 statement by the National Media Office, which announced that a number of social media users had been referred to the Federal Public Prosecution for suspected violations of media content regulations. She also highlighted the introduction of the UAE’s Media Regulation Law, which broadened oversight to include influencers, digital content creators, and everyday social media users under formal regulatory standards.
According to Lassoud, these measures demonstrate a shift towards a more transparent and assured style of official communication in law enforcement matters, while still remaining fully grounded in the country’s established legal procedures.
An Abu Dhabi Judicial Department official also commented that the purpose of legislation in the UAE extends beyond punishment alone, encompassing prevention and the maintenance of public order.
“The aim of the law is to ensure stability, confidence, and social order,” the official said. He added that consistent enforcement plays an important role in discouraging violations, as a lack of accountability could encourage repeated offences and undermine public trust in the legal system.
