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UAE bans under-15s from social media: Everything parents need to know

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3 months ago

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The UAE has introduced one of its strongest measures yet to protect children online, setting a minimum age of 15 for social media use.The new rules mean that children under 15 will no longer be allowed to create or use personal social media accounts, even if they have their parents’ permission.

For many families, the announcement raises practical questions. Which apps are affected? Can parents make exceptions? How will age checks work? And what changes for teenagers aged 15 and 16?

Here’s a breakdown of what the new regulations mean for parents.

Which platforms are affected?

The rules apply broadly to almost any platform that functions as a social media service. This includes platforms that allow users to create profiles, share content, interact with others, join communities, or receive content recommendations through algorithms. Whether a service is free or paid does not matter. If it is available in the UAE or targets users in the country, it falls within the scope of the new regulations.

What is banned for children under 15?

The most significant change is the introduction of a minimum age of 15 for social media use. Children below this age will no longer be allowed to create, use or operate personal social media accounts.

The restriction goes beyond simply opening an account. Children under 15 will also be prohibited from accessing the full range of social media features, including posting content, commenting on posts, sharing material, participating in public groups or channels and engaging in wider social interactions through personal profiles.

In effect, the UAE has drawn a clear line by establishing 15 as the age at which children can begin accessing social media platforms.

Can parents give permission?

No. One of the most notable aspects of the new regulations is that parental consent cannot be used to bypass the age restriction.

The resolution explicitly states that permission from a parent or caregiver does not constitute a valid exemption from the rules. This means that even if a parent is comfortable with their child using social media before the age of 15, the platform is still required to prevent access.

The measure is designed to create a uniform national standard rather than leaving the decision entirely to individual families.

What happens when a child turns 15?

Turning 15 does not mean teenagers gain unrestricted access to social media. Instead, the regulations introduce a more controlled environment for young users aged between 15 and 16.

Teenagers in this age group will be allowed to have accounts, but platforms will be required to apply enhanced safety measures. These protections are expected to include stronger privacy settings, age-appropriate content filtering, restrictions on interactions with unknown users and tools that help manage the amount of time spent online.

The aim is to recognise that older teenagers are increasingly participating in the digital world while ensuring that they remain protected from some of the risks associated with social media use. The regulations describe this as part of a gradual transition towards healthier and more balanced digital habits.

What role will parents play?

While parents cannot override the age limit, they will still play a central role in supervising their children’s online activity.

For teenagers aged 15 and 16, caregivers will be able to use parental control tools provided by social media platforms to manage account settings and monitor usage. However, any changes made through these tools must remain within the limits established by the regulations.

The rules also place specific responsibilities on parents and caregivers. They are expected not to assist children in circumventing age-verification systems or accessing platforms in violation of the regulations. At the same time, they are encouraged to actively supervise their children’s digital activities, discuss online risks and promote safe and responsible internet use.

The message from regulators is clear: protecting children online is not solely the responsibility of technology companies but a shared responsibility involving families as well.

How will age verification work?

A key challenge for governments around the world has been ensuring that children cannot simply enter a false date of birth when signing up for social media accounts. The UAE’s new framework seeks to address that issue directly.

Under the regulations, platforms must implement effective and reliable age-verification systems. These may include digital identity checks, artificial intelligence-powered verification tools, biometric technologies or other mechanisms approved by the Child Digital Safety Council.

Importantly, self-declared ages will no longer be accepted as sufficient proof. Platforms will be expected to demonstrate that their systems can accurately determine whether a user meets the required age threshold.

At the same time, the regulations require companies to handle personal information responsibly. Data collected for verification purposes must be limited to what is necessary, stored securely and retained only for as long as required. Users must also be informed about how verification systems operate.

What new responsibilities will social media companies face?

The regulations place significant obligations on social media platforms, reflecting the UAE’s view that technology companies should play a more active role in protecting children online.

Platforms will be required to identify and remove accounts operated by children under 15, introduce measures to prevent users from bypassing safety systems and regularly assess risks to children’s digital wellbeing. They must also provide parental control tools and educational resources that help families navigate the online environment safely.

The rules further restrict how children’s data can be used. Platforms will not be permitted to target children with personalised advertising based on behavioural tracking, nor can they use information gathered from children’s online activities for commercial purposes.

The overall approach positions social media companies as active partners in child protection rather than simply providers of digital services.

When will the changes take effect?

The regulations will not be implemented overnight. Social media companies have been given a transition period of up to 12 months to introduce the necessary technical systems and compliance measures.

This period is intended to ensure that platforms have enough time to build age-verification mechanisms, introduce enhanced protections for teenagers and align their services with the new requirements.

Who will enforce the rules?

Responsibility for oversight will be shared between the National Media Authority and the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority. Both organisations have been granted powers to monitor compliance and take action where necessary.

Platforms that fail to comply could face a range of measures, including warnings, administrative penalties and, in serious cases, partial or full blocking of their services within the UAE.

Alongside these regulators, the Child Digital Safety Council will play an important role in assessing emerging risks, developing safety policies and ensuring that the framework continues to evolve as technology changes.

Why is the UAE introducing these measures?

The new social media rules form part of a broader effort to strengthen child protection in the digital age.They build on existing legislation, including Wadeema’s Law, which protects children from neglect, abuse and exploitation, and follow the establishment of the Child Digital Safety Council as part of the UAE’s wider family-focused initiatives.

Officials say the objective is not simply to restrict children’s access to technology but to ensure that young people can engage with the digital world in a safer, healthier and more age-appropriate way.

What does this mean for families?

For many parents, the new rules may provide welcome clarity. Families have long faced pressure from children who want to join social media because friends and classmates are already online. A nationally enforced minimum age may make those conversations easier by creating a clear and consistent standard.

At the same time, questions remain about how effectively the rules can be enforced in practice. Children around the world have historically found ways to bypass age restrictions by providing inaccurate information when signing up for accounts. Whether the new verification systems can close those loopholes will be closely watched.

What is clear, however, is that the UAE is signalling a major shift in its approach to children’s online safety. By placing greater responsibility on technology companies while giving parents clearer guidance and stronger tools, the country is seeking to reshape how young people engage with social media in the years ahead.

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With 20 years of experience across print, TV, and digital journalism, Sudhashree is a seasoned media professional with a keen eye for news. A true news bug, she thrives on curating stories that capture the pulse of fashion, film, and all things trending. Deeply immersed in the fast-evolving media landscape, she swears by the power of social media to shape narratives and spark conversations.

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Odisha Targets Export-Led Industrial Growth Through High-Level UAE Investment Outreach

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2 days ago

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September 5, 2026

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The Odisha government will undertake a three-day investment outreach to the United Arab Emirates from September 9 to 11, led by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, as the state steps up efforts to attract global capital, expand export-oriented industries and strengthen business ties with the UAE.

The outreach will cover Abu Dhabi and Dubai, bringing together UAE-based investors, sovereign and institutional funds, financial institutions, industry leaders, Indian business professionals and business organisations to explore investment, technology collaboration, industrial partnerships, exports and value-chain opportunities in Odisha.

A key focus of the visit will be on export-oriented manufacturing and materials, building on Odisha’s established strengths in metals and metallurgy while seeking investments in higher-value manufacturing and downstream industries.

The state will showcase opportunities across metallurgy and metals downstream industries, food and seafood exports, port-based industrial and logistics parks, shipbuilding, rare earths, slurry pipeline infrastructure, and chemical and petrochemical parks.

With its established industrial base and strategic location along India’s eastern coast, Odisha is positioning its ports and related infrastructure as major drivers of future industrial growth. The government expects port-led development to open up opportunities for integrated manufacturing, logistics, exports and global supply-chain linkages.

The UAE engagement will also seek to accelerate Odisha’s transition from traditional industrial sectors towards technology-driven, higher-value industries, with an emphasis on developing integrated value chains within the state and connecting local production with international markets.

In Abu Dhabi, the Odisha delegation is scheduled to hold discussions with leading investment institutions, fund houses, sovereign investment platforms and UAE-based organisations. The talks will focus on investment opportunities, foreign direct investment, industrial partnerships and long-term capital participation.

The Dubai leg will feature meetings with industry leaders, metals and downstream companies, logistics and infrastructure players and other potential investors. Sector-specific roundtables and one-to-one meetings are expected to provide a platform for the state to pitch specific projects while understanding the requirements of global companies looking to expand their presence in India.

A major component of the programme will be meetings with fund houses and UAE-based organisations, focusing on project financing, strategic partnerships and FDI opportunities in Odisha. The delegation will also engage with the Indian business community in the UAE, including professionals and business leaders who could help deepen India-UAE economic ties and facilitate international business connections for Odisha.

The Odisha Investors Meet – UAE will serve as a broader platform to showcase the state’s investment ecosystem, emerging opportunities and sector-specific projects to investors from the UAE and the wider MENA region. The government expects the programme to generate potential investment commitments and new industrial partnerships.

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi said Odisha was seeking partnerships that could connect the state with global capital, technology and markets while strengthening its industrial ecosystem. “Odisha has a strong industrial foundation and immense potential to become a major hub for export-oriented and value-added manufacturing. Through our UAE outreach, we seek to connect Odisha with global capital, technology, markets and strategic partners. Our focus is on building long-term partnerships that can transform our industrial ecosystem, strengthen value chains and create new opportunities for our people.”

Industries Minister Sampad Chandra Swain said the government was targeting both established and emerging sectors, with a focus on value addition, exports and technology adoption. “From metallurgy, metals and downstream industries to ports, logistics, food and seafood exports, rare earths, shipbuilding, chemicals and petrochemicals, we are presenting a wide range of investment opportunities. We are particularly looking at investments that promote value addition, exports, technology adoption and the transition towards higher-value industries.”

The UAE outreach forms part of Odisha’s broader strategy to attract global investment and technology while strengthening export-oriented production, port-led industrialisation and international value-chain integration.

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Emirates Unveils Electric Privacy Screens in Premium Economy

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4 days ago

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September 3, 2026

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Emirates is taking its award-winning Premium Economy cabin up another notch, introducing what it says is the world’s first electrically powered Premium Economy seat with a full-height adjustable privacy screen.

The new seats will debut aboard the airline’s newly delivered Airbus A350 aircraft, giving passengers greater control over their personal space while adding a host of comfort and technology upgrades to the cabin.

Configured in a spacious 2-3-2 layout with just 28 seats, Emirates’ latest Premium Economy cabin features seats measuring 20 inches wide, with up to 39 inches of pitch. The seats recline into a cradle position designed to provide a more comfortable sleeping experience without encroaching on the passenger behind.

At the centre of the new design is the electrically operated privacy divider. Passengers can raise or lower the screen at the touch of a button and lock it at their preferred height, creating a more secluded space for working, dining or relaxing.

The new seats are also Emirates’ first fully electrically powered Premium Economy seats. Through an integrated Passenger Control Unit, travellers can adjust their seating position and select dedicated settings including lounge and meal modes.

More comfort, from head to foot

Emirates has also introduced Safran Seats’ U-Dream headrest, a leather design featuring adjustable wings that can be positioned to provide additional support for the head and neck.

A manually deployable leather footrest adds another layer of comfort, particularly on long-haul flights, helping passengers relax and reduce leg fatigue.

For passengers travelling with multiple devices, the cabin introduces wireless charging in Premium Economy for the first time on Emirates. Each seat also comes with USB-C charging and a redesigned tray table featuring an integrated phone holder, allowing travellers to use their smartphone as a second screen while eating or watching content.

A sharper entertainment experience

Passengers on the new A350s will have access to Emirates’ ice inflight entertainment system through a 13.3-inch 4K HDR touchscreen, offering high-resolution images and faster, more responsive navigation.

The aircraft itself will also provide an enhanced view of the journey. New A350 aircraft will feature additional exterior camera perspectives, adding left- and right-facing views to the existing forward and downward cameras.

Premium dining remains part of the experience

The upgraded seat comes alongside the dining service that has helped distinguish Emirates Premium Economy from many competing products.

Passengers are served regionally inspired menus prepared by Emirates chefs, with meals presented on Royal Doulton fine china, accompanied by linen napkins and stainless-steel Robert Welch cutlery.

The beverage programme includes Chandon Vintage Brut 2021, an Australian sparkling wine available exclusively to Emirates Premium Economy customers worldwide.

From September, passengers on selected routes can also expect wines including Chablis Premier Cru Jean-Marc Brocard 2024 from Burgundy and La Parde de Haut-Bailly 2014 from Bordeaux.

October will bring another first, with Wiston Estate Brut NV becoming Emirates’ first English sparkling wine. It will be served exclusively in Premium Economy on UK routes.

Emirates says it has invested more than US$1 billion in its wine portfolio since 2006, underscoring the importance the airline places on its onboard beverage programme.

Sustainable amenity kits add another touch

On long-haul flights, Premium Economy passengers will also receive reusable amenity kits created in partnership with United for Wildlife.

The collectible bags are designed around endangered wildlife and four natural habitats, with bio-based materials used throughout. For the first time in Emirates Premium Economy, the kits will include plant-based skincare products from Aveda, alongside travel essentials such as socks, eyeshades, earplugs and dental kits.

Emirates continues to expand Premium Economy

Emirates launched Premium Economy in 2022 as a product positioned between its Economy and Business Class cabins. Since then, the airline has steadily expanded the cabin across its fleet, with the product now available across markets served by its Airbus A350 aircraft.

The latest generation is clearly designed to push Premium Economy closer to the Business Class experience, combining wider seats, generous legroom, greater privacy, upgraded dining and high-end entertainment.

The product has already collected several industry accolades, including Best Premium Economy Class at the Business Traveller Middle East Awards in 2024 and 2025, as well as Airline with the Best Premium Economy Class at the 2025 ULTRAs Awards.

With the introduction of its electrically powered seat and full-height privacy screen, Emirates is once again betting that the future of Premium Economy will be defined not simply by extra legroom, but by greater personal space, technology and control.

For passengers, that could mean a Premium Economy seat that feels less like an upgraded economy chair — and increasingly like a private space of its own.

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How to rent a car at Etihad Rail stations from Dh80 with no deposit

Published

3 weeks ago

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August 20, 2026

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Etihad Rail passengers now have another option for getting around after they step off the train, with a new car rental service offering vehicles from Dh80 to Dh200 per day.

The Rail to Road service, launched through Thrifty Car Rental’s Flexy offering, is currently available at Etihad Rail’s Abu Dhabi and Fujairah passenger stations. The service is designed to solve the first- and last-mile transport challenge for travellers continuing their journey by road.

One of the biggest advantages is that no security deposit is required. Rentals also come with 60km of included driving and prepaid fuel, meaning passengers do not need to worry about refuelling before returning the vehicle.

Three car categories to choose from

Travellers can select from three vehicle categories depending on their needs and budget.

Essential is aimed at passengers looking for a practical and affordable option, with cars such as the Toyota Yaris, Suzuki Baleno and Hyundai Accent.

Comfort steps up to larger cars and compact SUVs, including models such as the Mazda CX-3, Hyundai Creta and Mazda 6.

For those wanting something larger or more premium, Stretch includes vehicles such as the Audi A3, Mazda CX-90, Jeep Cherokee, Nissan Patrol and Jeep Wrangler.

Prices range from around Dh80 to Dh200 per 24-hour rental, depending on the vehicle category.

You can rent a car when you arrive

Passengers do not have to book weeks in advance. The service allows travellers to reserve a vehicle before their train journey, book after reaching the station or simply walk in and rent a car, subject to availability.

The rental period is based on a 24-hour cycle rather than being linked to the customer’s train arrival or departure time. This gives passengers more flexibility if their travel plans change.

Additional kilometres beyond the included 60km can also be purchased for an extra fee.

Cars can be returned to other Thrifty locations

The service is primarily designed for passengers to collect and return their vehicles at the same Etihad Rail station.

However, customers can arrange to return the car at another Thrifty location for a nominal one-way fee. This gives travellers more flexibility when their onward journey does not bring them back to the original station.

Car rental can be added to your train booking

The rental option has been integrated into the Etihad Rail booking journey, allowing passengers to add a car when arranging their train travel.

The system is expected to be further developed to make the car rental option more visible and easier to use.

The Rail to Road initiative forms part of a five-year partnership between Etihad Rail and Thrifty, focused on improving connections between passenger stations and final destinations.

Thrifty plans to invest more than Dh10 million over five years in expanding its fleet, digital systems and customer services. An initial fleet of around 500 vehicles is planned, with the potential to grow as demand increases and Etihad Rail expands its passenger network.

The wider rollout is also expected to include digital kiosks and customer assistance desks across Etihad Rail’s 11 passenger stations.

With train travel connecting more parts of the UAE, the new service could make the journey considerably easier for passengers whose final destination is beyond the rail station.

EtihadRail RailToRoad UAE AbuDhabi Fujairah UAETransport DubaiTransport PublicTransport CarRental Thrifty UAETravel AbuDhabiTravel FujairahTravel TravelUAE UAETravelNews FirstMile LastMile SmartMobility UAENews TravelUpdate

Etihad Rail passengers can now rent cars from Dh80 a day with no deposit

Etihad Rail passengers now have another option for getting around after they step off the train, with a new car rental service offering vehicles from Dh80 to Dh200 per day.

The Rail to Road service, launched through Thrifty Car Rental’s Flexy offering, is currently available at Etihad Rail’s Abu Dhabi and Fujairah passenger stations. The service is designed to solve the first- and last-mile transport challenge for travellers continuing their journey by road.

One of the biggest advantages is that no security deposit is required. Rentals also come with 60km of included driving and prepaid fuel, meaning passengers do not need to worry about refuelling before returning the vehicle.

Three car categories to choose from

Travellers can select from three vehicle categories depending on their needs and budget.

Essential is aimed at passengers looking for a practical and affordable option, with cars such as the Toyota Yaris, Suzuki Baleno and Hyundai Accent.

Comfort steps up to larger cars and compact SUVs, including models such as the Mazda CX-3, Hyundai Creta and Mazda 6.

For those wanting something larger or more premium, Stretch includes vehicles such as the Audi A3, Mazda CX-90, Jeep Cherokee, Nissan Patrol and Jeep Wrangler.

Prices range from around Dh80 to Dh200 per 24-hour rental, depending on the vehicle category.

You can rent a car when you arrive

Passengers do not have to book weeks in advance. The service allows travellers to reserve a vehicle before their train journey, book after reaching the station or simply walk in and rent a car, subject to availability.

The rental period is based on a 24-hour cycle rather than being linked to the customer’s train arrival or departure time. This gives passengers more flexibility if their travel plans change.

Additional kilometres beyond the included 60km can also be purchased for an extra fee.

Cars can be returned to other Thrifty locations

The service is primarily designed for passengers to collect and return their vehicles at the same Etihad Rail station.

However, customers can arrange to return the car at another Thrifty location for a nominal one-way fee. This gives travellers more flexibility when their onward journey does not bring them back to the original station.

Car rental can be added to your train booking

The rental option has been integrated into the Etihad Rail booking journey, allowing passengers to add a car when arranging their train travel.

The system is expected to be further developed to make the car rental option more visible and easier to use.

The Rail to Road initiative forms part of a five-year partnership between Etihad Rail and Thrifty, focused on improving connections between passenger stations and final destinations.

Thrifty plans to invest more than Dh10 million over five years in expanding its fleet, digital systems and customer services. An initial fleet of around 500 vehicles is planned, with the potential to grow as demand increases and Etihad Rail expands its passenger network.

The wider rollout is also expected to include digital kiosks and customer assistance desks across Etihad Rail’s 11 passenger stations.

With train travel connecting more parts of the UAE, the new service could make the journey considerably easier for passengers whose final destination is beyond the rail station.

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