Pakistani Embassy in UAE Warns Citizens About New Social Media Laws

This warning was shared through the embassy’s official Facebook page, highlighting a new law introduced by UAE authorities. The law is part of UAE Cabinet Decision No. 42 of 2025, based on Federal Decree-Law No. 55 of 2023 on Media Regulation.

What’s in the New Law?

The new media law outlines 20 types of violations related to media and online content. It applies to individuals, media companies, and digital platforms operating within the UAE.

Here are some key violations and their penalties:

• Insulting any religion or Divine Entity:
  Fine from AED 100,000 to 1,000,000

• Disrespecting UAE leadership or national symbols:
  Fine from AED 50,000 to 500,000

• Spreading harmful content against foreign countries:
  Fine from AED 30,000 to 250,000

• Promoting sectarian hate, violence, or terrorism:
  Fine from AED 100,000 to 500,000

• Posting false, immoral, or misleading information:
  Fine from AED 10,000 to 100,000

• Violating someone’s privacy or harming children’s rights:
  Fine from AED 5,000 to 100,000

• Breaking rules on age ratings or misusing national identity symbols:
  Fine from AED 5,000 to 100,000

Embassy’s Advice for Pakistani Residents

The Pakistani Embassy strongly advised all Pakistani nationals in the UAE to:

• Use social media carefully

• Avoid sharing sensitive, political, or religious content

• Respect UAE’s laws and local values

• Think before posting online

Violating these rules can lead to heavy financial penalties and even legal action, depending on the nature of the content.