The UAE government has issued a new Federal Decree-Law aimed at strengthening child digital safety, establishing a comprehensive legal framework to protect children from online risks and promote the responsible use of age-appropriate digital content.
The legislation aligns with the UAE’s declaration of 2026 as the Year of Family and reflects the country’s broader commitment to safeguarding children’s wellbeing in an increasingly digital world.
The decree-law focuses on protecting children from harmful digital content and practices that may negatively affect their physical, psychological, and moral development. It introduces a governance framework that clearly defines the roles and responsibilities of relevant authorities, ensuring coordination between federal and local entities, as well as the private sector, to protect children’s rights within the digital ecosystem.
The law applies to internet service providers and all digital platforms operating in or targeting users within the UAE. Covered platforms include websites, social media, messaging apps, gaming platforms, streaming services, podcasts, e-commerce platforms, and video-on-demand services. It also outlines responsibilities for caregivers, defining their obligations to ensure the digital safety of children under their care.
A key provision of the decree-law is the establishment of the Child Digital Safety Council, chaired by the Minister of Family. The council will act as an advisory and coordinating body, proposing policies, legislation, awareness campaigns, and studies to address emerging digital risks driven by rapid technological change.
The legislation introduces a platform classification system based on content type, usage, and potential impact on children, setting age-based controls and restrictions. It prohibits the collection or sharing of personal data of children under 13, except under specific conditions, with limited exemptions for educational and health platforms subject to Cabinet approval.
Digital platforms are required to implement privacy-by-default settings, age verification tools, content filtering, and restrictions on targeted advertising. Gambling-related online activities are strictly prohibited for children. Internet service providers must activate content filtering systems and ensure parental control measures are in place, while caregivers are required to monitor digital activities and prevent access to inappropriate platforms. The law also establishes mechanisms for reporting harmful content and responding swiftly to online abuse or exploitation.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
