Online Abuse of Children in the UAE; Up to 100,000 Dirhams Fine and One Year Imprisonment

The UAE and Saudi Arabia have begun legal actions following the release of a video mocking and abusing a child under 15 with a disability on social media. The UAE National Media Organization announced on Friday that the published content included inappropriate remarks contrary to the social and moral values of the country. This organization has coordinated with the relevant platform to address the account and the video publisher and has informed the appropriate authorities for legal follow-up. In Saudi Arabia, the father of the child has requested the responsible authorities to investigate the matter, calling for the enforcement of child protection laws and addressing what he described as mockery and mistreatment of his son. The Saudi Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has stated that the complaint raised on social media has been referred to the relevant authorities, and the process is underway based on child protection laws. The account of the publisher has also deleted the discussed video and post. UAE laws to combat online abuse of children include various regulations to protect children from harassment, including in cyberspace. The Child Rights Law enacted in 2016, known as the 'Wadima Law', protects children from physical, verbal, and psychological abuse. According to the explanations of Nikhat Sardar Khan, a lawyer, if the abusive behavior constitutes violence or mistreatment prohibited by this law, the punishment can reach a minimum of one year in prison and a fine ranging from 50,000 to 100,000 Dirhams. The determination of the penalty depends on the details of the case and the judgment of the relevant authorities. The UAE's cybercrime laws also criminalize the dissemination of certain fake news, misleading reports, and rumors. The punishment for some of these offenses can be at least one year in prison and a fine of 100,000 Dirhams, which may increase in situations such as crises and emergencies. Additionally, Federal Law No. 26 of 2025 regarding digital child safety has been enacted to enhance the protection of children against online dangers and harmful content. This law encompasses digital platforms and internet service providers operating in the UAE or targeting users in this country, regardless of their location. Source: National News