Social Media Usage in UAE – Penalties and Fines

There are certain rules and policies that you should follow when using social media or doing online activities in the UAE. Just like other Middle East countries such as Qatar, Saudi, etc., the UAE has strict laws and imposes Fines and penalties if somebody complains about what you post. So please check out these rules to be aware how to behave online.

Also Read: Why it is Illegal to Work if You Have a Tourist/Visit Visa, Convert it First to an Employment Visa

Internet is indeed one of the greatest millennial invention. Because of the internet, we are able to access files and data whenever and wherever we are. We are able to communicate with our loved ones across the globe as well. In fact, some people have found the life of their lives via online. These are just few helpful things among many the technology has produced for us. Do you wonder what our life would be without the internet?

6 Major Rules of Using Social Media in UAE

Commonly, people used social media platforms in order to connect to the online world. Popular apps such as Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram have gained billions of user, still counting.  If you are frequent user of these apps and happened to be in United Arab Emirates, you must know that there are some rules to follow when you use social media. For better understanding, we listed 6 common rules an expat in UAE should be aware of.

1. No to online prostitution. Online prostitution is considered illegal in UAE. So if you don’t want to be fined and serve time in jail, better use social media as conservative as you can.
2. Respect each other’s privacy. Although the internet can be too open sometimes, privacy should still be observed. If you are caught violating this rule, you will have to pay up to AED 1,500,000.
3. Rumors or gossips are as bad a crime. Using the social media to post rumors and gossips are not allowed in UAE, especially when it involves the security, peace, and order of the country. Avoid this so you don’t have to spend a second in jail.
4. Get consent first before posting someone’s picture or information. The sentence is as clear as sky. Getting one’s permission post is a must. If you happen to break this rule, you are going to pay up to AED 150,000 and even spend time in prison. Better yet, just avoid posting photos of others.
5. No sharing or posting of information that are against the Islamic moral and values. When you use the social media, use it rightly. We should be aware that anything that will hurt the Islamic moral and values is an offense and has an equivalent punishment.
6. No to illegal online sites. There are apps that are banned in UAE, Skype and Facetime for example. If you’re caught using illegal channels or without a license to use those apps, you’re going to face at least 1 year in jail or pay fine equivalent up to AED 250,000. VPNs area also illegal in the UAE.

Be careful what you post as it can get back to you if you post something negative, demeaning and invading other’s privacy. This is done with extra caution if you are in the gulf region as there are corresponding (and sometimes ridiculously huge) fines and sanctions for violators.

Social media platforms are a big help to all of us. If users remain responsible, there won’t be any problems with its usage. You must be aware of the rules wherever you are because knowing the rules can save you. After all, you don’t want to end up in jail or pay these penalties.