The United Arab Emirates has announced a ban on social media use for children under the age of 15, in a move aimed at strengthening digital child protection and reducing online risks faced by minors.
Under the new cabinet resolution, social media platforms will be required to actively monitor and disable accounts belonging to users under 15 years of age, or risk penalties that could include warnings, restrictions, or even being blocked in the country.
Authorities say companies will be given a 12-month transition period to fully comply with the new rules.
The policy also states that children below 15 are completely prohibited from creating, using or operating personal social media accounts.
Teenagers aged 15 to 16 will still be allowed access, but under tighter safeguards, including content restrictions, usage limits, and enhanced monitoring of online activity.
Officials say the decision is driven by growing concerns over mental health, cyberbullying, online addiction, exposure to predators, and reduced physical activity among young people.
They added that the move aligns with global trends, following similar restrictions in countries like Australia, Britain and Canada.
The resolution also places responsibility on parents and caregivers to ensure compliance, stressing that parental consent will not override the restriction.
It further empowers regulatory bodies to take enforcement actions against non-compliant platforms, including partial or full blocking and administrative penalties.
Authorities say the broader goal is to create a safer digital environment for children while ensuring that technology companies operate with stronger safeguards and accountability in the country’s online space.
Comments
Add a comment