Dubai tightens social rules
Dubai's recent social media crackdown—framed by some outlets as 'Orwellian'—has tightened digital communications after regional missile strikes, raising new flags about how social surveillance and platform policy shifts affect digital fraud and influencer ecosystems (independent.co.uk).
UAE Attorney‑General Dr Hamad Saif Al Shamsi ordered the arrest of 35 people from nine countries for publishing videos and images linked to Iran’s attacks, with the first 10 arrests announced on March 14 and a further 25 on March 15. (gulfnews.com) Campaign group Detained in Dubai says 21 people — including a 60‑year‑old British tourist — were charged under UAE cybercrime laws, with penalties cited as up to two years’ imprisonment, fines of AED20,000–AED200,000 and potential deportation for foreigners. (detainedindubai.org) Abu Dhabi Police confirmed separate detentions of 45 people for filming military‑related events, a figure that, when combined with the Attorney‑General’s 35 arrests, has produced media tallies of more than 80 people detained across the Emirates. (ibtimes.com) A new Advertiser Permit regime made mandatory on February 1, 2026 — enacted under Cabinet Resolution No. (42) of 2025 — requires all advertisers and content creators to secure permits, with non‑compliance exposing creators and brands to fines up to AED1,000,000. (gulfnews.com) Authorities have publicly warned residents not to film or circulate footage of interceptions or damage and have reportedly been seizing phones near impact sites, a practice that has pushed some multinationals to revise employee social‑media guidelines for staff travelling or posted to the UAE. (news18.com) Influencers and creators have deleted posts showing debris and interceptions, brands are being asked to verify advertisers’ permits before campaigns, and lawyers warn that even resharing third‑party footage can trigger criminal charges under the UAE’s tightened media and cybercrime rules. (telegraph.co.uk)
