As of July 2024, Abu Dhabi has introduced stringent regulations for social media influencers and advertisers operating without a license, reinforcing the importance of lawful online engagements.

Seven Crucial Social Media Regulations in UAE:

1. Respect for Leadership and Governance: Any content that criticizes or attacks the UAE’s President, the rulers of the Emirates, or the country’s governance can lead to severe penalties. This includes comments that could harm the state’s higher interests.
2. Economic Harm Prevention: Spreading rumors or misleading news that could damage the UAE’s economic system is strictly prohibited. This ensures the stability and integrity of the national economy.
3. Public Morals and Decorum: Posts that violate public morals, insult minors, or promote harmful principles are banned. Users must align their content with the cultural and moral expectations of the country.
4. Integrity of Legal Proceedings: Misrepresenting or distorting discussions or public sessions of courts or regulatory bodies is forbidden and punishable.
5. Accuracy of Information: It is illegal to deliberately spread false news, forged documents, or incorrectly attribute documents to others. This rule is in place to maintain the credibility and trustworthiness of information shared online.
6. Respecting Public Officials: Criticizing the actions of public officials or persons in positions of authority is prohibited, protecting the reputation and function of government representatives.
7. Non-promotion of Destructive Behavior: It is crucial to avoid promoting activities or ideologies that could be seen as destructive or harmful to society.

Violators of these regulations face fines up to Dh500,000 (around USD 136,000) and up to five years in prison, reflecting the seriousness with which the UAE views the responsible use of social media.

To ensure the safety of its citizens, the Ministry has outlined several precautionary measures. Travelers are advised to avoid displaying valuable or rare items, secure official documents at their accommodations, and use reputable international companies for booking vehicles and hotels to avoid scams. Additionally, the Ministry encourages travellers to follow specific travel guidelines for each destination, register with the Tawajedi service, and keep the emergency contact number for UAE citizens handy: 0097180024.

In Europe, the advisory is particularly relevant as several European countries are popular destinations for travellers worldwide. The rise in petty crimes targeting tourists, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, highlights the need for enhanced security measures in these tourist hotspots. Local authorities may be prompted to take additional steps to protect visitors, which can also impact the tourism industry by influencing travellers’ destination choices.

This advisory is significant on a global scale as it underscores the importance of personal safety for all international travellers. It serves as a reminder for tourists worldwide to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions against theft and other crimes. Such advisories can influence travel behaviour, encouraging tourists to be more cautious and better prepared, ultimately reducing the risk of incidents.