UAE Warns: Online Comments Can Bring Penalties

Every Word Goes on Record – Authorities Warn: Comments Can Lead to Punishment

Authorities in the United Arab Emirates have issued a stern warning to social media users, cautioning them not to post or respond to any content in a negative, offensive, or defamatory manner, whether in written, audio, video form, or live broadcasts. This warning responds to increasingly frequent incidents on social media where users post offensive or degrading comments, often without realizing that this constitutes a crime under UAE law.

The statement emphasizes that misuse of the comments section poses a serious problem. "Commenting on a public post does not authorize verbal assault, ridicule, or humiliation," said the Head of the Criminal Investigation Department of Sharjah Police. "We are committed to taking decisive action against digital crimes that threaten social harmony. The law is clear – online insults, even in comments or replies, are punishable offenses."

Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021, amended in 2024, prescribes strict penalties for online insults or defamation, including imprisonment and fines ranging from 250,000 to 500,000 dirhams. Such penalties can be more severe if the insult is directed at public officials or posted on widely-followed accounts.

In Sharjah, several such cases have been recorded in recent years, but the officer emphasized that many users don't realize even brief responses can have legal consequences. The acting head of the Cyber Crimes Department of Dubai Police also affirmed this warning. "Whether it's a written post, video, audio recording, or live broadcast, the law prohibits posting offensive or defamatory comments," he said. "Many people assume that comments, particularly during live broadcasts, are just casual and harmless expressions. But every word goes on record, can be traced, and may lead to legal consequences."

"Personal attacks on content creators or using offensive language in responses is a violation of the law," he added. "We urge all users to act responsibly, respond respectfully, and understand that cybercrime laws apply to everyone. Saying 'I didn't know' is not a valid legal defense."

A Dubai Court legal advisor confirmed that an increasing number of online defamation cases are initiated based on users' comments, rather than the content of original posts. "People think they're just expressing opinions," he said. "But if a comment causes personal offense, moral damage, or reputational harm, even indirectly, it becomes a crime. Courts rely on digital evidence, and most users underestimate how easily they can be identified."

Under Article 43 of the UAE Cybercrimes Law, anyone who offends others online or attributes conduct that harms their dignity can face imprisonment or fines. Article 426 of the Penal Code also prescribes penalties for public insults, even if no specific accusation is made, including up to a year in jail or fines of up to 20,000 dirhams, which in more severe cases can increase to two years or 50,000 dirhams.

UAE authorities urge users to think twice before commenting on any content. Whether it's a video, text, image, or live broadcast, every response leaves a digital footprint and users are legally accountable for what they post. "If you disagree, scroll on or report through the proper channels," authorities warn. "But never respond with insults. Online respect is not optional; it's the law."

(Source of the article: Police statement.)