In the UAE, you should be aware that you cannot just post anything you wish to post online. There are certain rules and guidelines that should be followed, or else you will face consequences. There are cases where workers share their sentiments online and have been penalized (either getting sacked from their jobs or getting fined by the police).
PLEASE READ: 15 Things to Know about Working and Living in the UAE
While we’ve come into a time when people frequently breathe in and out of social and electronic media. Our dependence on these channels grows as quickly as the number of available platforms. This rapid development of the electronic media has seen many unforeseen circumstances, including legality and morality. So be wise and think before you click.
Internet and Social Media Rules in UAE- Penalties and Fines for Violators
The growth of the electronic age has led to new careers, new experiences and new crimes. And new legislation with that. Online media legislation varies from country to country; some have incredibly strict laws, while others are extremely lax. Please check out this guide on how to use social media in the UAE.
Privacy
Privacy in the UAE is a basic human right, and it is a criminal act to invade one’s privacy. Authorities warn the public not to post photos or videos of other people on the internet without their consent.
However we all believe that social media can spread information faster and more broadly than any other form of media. Local authorities enforce strict privacy laws so that it is imperative to know what information can be shared and what can be kept close or only given to authorities
Person’s consent to pictures
The copyright law clearly states however that the subject matter of a picture or footage must give written consent prior to the storage, publication or distribution of the photograph or video, including the sharing on social media platforms.
The violation of copyright shall be punishable by imprisonment or fines and the posting of photographs or information without the consent of the owner may result in an infringement. Individuals and companies may be liable for copyright infringement if they post content from third parties on social media sites without the permission of the owners of the rights.
VoIP Blocked
VoIP obstructions are mainly caused by the UAE telecommunications companies such as DU and Etisalat as per instructions of the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA). So Skype, What’sApp Calls, FaceTime, among the few are blocked.
This area and some surrounding countries have limited the widely popular VoIP applications Skype and WhatsApp. VoIP blocking is carried out by setting up a firewall and restricting the traffic.
Islamic values and morals
In the UAE, religious convictions are highly regarded. Therefore, it is deemed profoundly offensive to commit blasphemy or taboo against any religion. As Islam is the UAE ‘s official religion, certain simple rules are followed to show respect and avoid misunderstandings.
These rules are important, because religious values may not be the same throughout the world. If a newspaper has a Prophet’s name, don’t use it as a cover paper. When you hear the prayer call, don’t obviously disturb its sound. Do not overlook that the rules of Ramadan are all different. So don’t post anything online that will deem derogatory to the religion.
Prostitution & Adult Websites
Under federal law and under sharia law, prostitution in the United Arab Emirates is completely illegal. Penalties may be severe, including imprisonment and flogging, and more severe punishments may be imposed during Ramadan by the Sharia Court. After serving their sentences, foreign prostitutes are deported. The UAE deported 4,300 foreign prostitutes in 2006.
This leads us to share that adult websites are also prohibited.
Rumors
It would cost you Dh1 million to spread false news and rumors in the UAE. The punishment may be enacted upon those who knowingly and willingly disclose lies and misinformation that could damage the public interest or interrupt peace and harmony.
Even if the rumor is shared in a private message, be careful. Once caught, you will be subject to fines and penalties.
It is very important that you think twice before you post anything online. Be aware of the consequences if you do so. We hope you find these tips helpful in making you understand that the UAE takes online policies seriously.