The United Arab Emirates has enforced a new Child Digital Safety Law aimed at protecting children from online risks and harmful digital content. The law introduces strict responsibilities for parents, digital platforms, and technology companies, making child online safety a legal obligation rather than just guidance.
According to Arab media reports, the law is designed to shield children from growing digital threats such as inappropriate content, online violence, fraud, blackmail, and cyber exploitation.
Parents Now Legally Responsible for Children’s Digital Activity
Under the new legislation, parents are legally responsible for monitoring their children’s digital behavior.
This includes:
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Supervising children’s use of mobile phones, tablets, and laptops
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Protecting them from harmful, violent, or inappropriate content
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Monitoring screen time
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Ensuring safe use of social media platforms and online games
Authorities clarified that parental responsibility is no longer limited to advice — it is now a legal duty.
Strict Rules for Digital Platforms and Tech Companies
The law also places strong obligations on digital companies and online platforms, both inside and outside the UAE.
Key requirements include:
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Creating a safe digital environment for children on social media and gaming platforms
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Mandatory age verification for children’s accounts
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Content filtering and parental control tools
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Limits on screen time for minors
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A ban on targeted advertising aimed at children
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Making search engines and streaming platforms child-safe by default
Notably, foreign digital companies operating in the UAE must also comply with these regulations.
Thousands of Platforms Under Monitoring
UAE authorities revealed that:
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More than 4,000 digital platforms are currently under active monitoring
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Nearly 60% of children in the UAE have already been exposed to inappropriate online content
These figures were cited as a major reason behind introducing strict digital safety regulations.
Heavy Penalties for Violations
Officials have issued a clear warning that violations of the law may result in:
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Heavy financial fines
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Temporary or permanent service restrictions
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Complete shutdown of services within the UAE
The government emphasized that child safety will be treated as a top national priority.
Advisory for Parents
UAE authorities urged parents to:
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Stay actively involved in their children’s online lives
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Educate children about digital risks
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Protect them from online abuse, blackmail, scams, and immoral content
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Report suspicious online activity immediately
Conclusion
The UAE’s new Child Digital Safety Law marks a strong and decisive move to protect children in the digital age. By holding parents and tech companies accountable, the government aims to create a safer online environment where children can use technology without being exposed to serious risks.
