Social media, messaging applications and online review platforms have become part of everyday personal and commercial communication. However, comments made online can carry serious legal consequences in the UAE.
Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021 addresses a wide range of conduct involving information technology. Its provisions cover matters including online insults and defamation, invasion of privacy, unauthorised disclosure of personal information, electronic threats and the circulation of false or misleading information in circumstances covered by the law.
Are private messages protected?
A message sent through a private chat is not automatically outside the scope of the law. The content, intention, recipient and subsequent use of the message may all be relevant.
Forwarding a private conversation, sharing a screenshot, publishing a photograph or distributing a recording without a lawful basis may also create privacy concerns.
Practical precautions
Before posting or forwarding content, consider the following:
- Do not insult, threaten or publicly accuse another person.
- Avoid naming and shaming individuals or businesses.
- Verify information before sharing it.
- Do not publish private photographs, recordings or conversations without proper authority.
- Preserve evidence if you receive threatening or abusive communications.
- Avoid responding emotionally when a dispute begins online.
Businesses should adopt clear social-media policies and train employees who manage public accounts. A post made by a staff member can affect the organisation’s reputation and may create legal exposure.
When an online dispute arises, deleting the content may not erase screenshots, digital records or potential liability. Obtaining legal advice at an early stage can help protect evidence and prevent the situation from escalating.
Contact our legal team for confidential advice concerning cybercrime, privacy or online communications.