What Is Online Defamation on Social Media in the UAE?
Online defamation on social media in the United Arab Emirates is governed by Federal Decree-Law No. (34) of 2021 on Combatting Rumours and Cybercrimes .
This page explains how online defamation may arise on social media platforms in the UAE, including harmful posts, comments, captions, messages, recordings and other digital content that may affect another person’s reputation or dignity.
What is online defamation on social media?
Online defamation on social media generally refers to posts, comments, messages, videos, captions or other electronic content published through social media platforms that harm the reputation, dignity or social standing of another person.
Can a social media post amount to defamation?
Yes. A social media post may amount to defamation where it contains harmful allegations, insulting descriptions or unlawful statements directed at an identifiable person under UAE law.
Do comments and replies also count?
Yes. Comments, replies, reposts and other forms of interaction may also be relevant where they publish, repeat or circulate defamatory content through electronic means.
Must the person be identifiable?
Yes. The affected person must be identified directly or be capable of being identified from the wording, images, context or surrounding circumstances of the publication.
Which platforms may be involved?
Online defamation may arise through platforms such as Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok, Snapchat, LinkedIn or other social media services used for digital publication and communication.
How do authorities assess social media defamation?
Authorities assess the wording, context, publication method, identity of the parties, digital evidence and surrounding circumstances to determine whether the conduct gives rise to criminal liability under UAE law.
Why is social media defamation legally important?
It is legally important because unlawful online publication may expose a person to criminal liability, investigation, prosecution and penalties under UAE cybercrime law.
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