Spreading Rumors and Fake News in the UAE Is a Criminal Offence

The dissemination of false news, misleading information, or unverified rumors through social media or any electronic platform is not a trivial matter in the United Arab Emirates. It is a criminal offence punishable by law.

Pursuant to Article 52 of Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021 on Combating Rumors and Cybercrimes, any person who publishes, circulates, or re-circulates false news, misleading information, or rumors that contradict official announcements, or that may harm public security, public order, or national unity, shall be subject to:

• Imprisonment for a minimum of one (1) year, and
• A fine of not less than AED 100,000.

Where the offence occurs during emergencies, crises, disasters, or pandemics, or where it incites public opinion against state authorities, the penalty increases to:

• Imprisonment for not less than two (2) years, and
• A fine of not less than AED 200,000.

It is important to emphasize that liability is not limited to the original author. Any individual who forwards, reposts, shares, or promotes such content may face the same criminal consequences.

The UAE legal framework prioritizes social stability, public security, and national unity. Freedom of expression does not extend to the publication of misinformation that undermines these fundamental principles.

Before sharing any information, verify its source. Rely only on official announcements and credible media outlets.

A single post can result in Criminal Prosecution, and Any individual who deliberately publishes or circulates false news, fabricated reports, or misleading information that may disturb public security, undermine public confidence, harm the reputation of state institutions, or create panic within society shall be held legally accountable under UAE law.

We strongly urge all people living in the UAE to exercise the highest level of responsibility when using social media and digital platforms. Before sharing any information, verify its authenticity through official government sources and credible news outlets.

Do not engage in forwarding, reposting, or commenting on unverified content, particularly material that may cause panic, mislead the community, or undermine public confidence in state institutions.

Digital conduct carries legal consequences. A single careless post may expose an individual to criminal liability under UAE law.

The dissemination of news and updates relating to public affairs must be left to the competent authorities and authorized entities, who are legally mandated to communicate accurate and verified information.

Avoid speculation, unofficial sources, or unverified online accounts. Responsible reliance on official channels protects both the individual and the stability of society.

Members of the public are encouraged to report any individual or account that deliberately disseminates false news, misleading information, or rumors that may harm public security or social stability to Cyber Crimes Section in the UAE Region.

To learn more, contact our Senior Associate, Mahmood Shakir Al Mashhadani at mahmood@galadarilaw.com.

Mahmood Shakir Al Mashhadani Senior Associate mahmood@galadarilaw.com