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UAE issues new law to strengthen child digital safety

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The UAE has issued a Federal Decree-Law on child digital safety, bringing in strict new rules to protect children from online harm and ensure safer, age-appropriate digital experiences.

The move supports the country’s declaration of 2026 as the Year of the Family and reinforces efforts to protect children’s well-being, both online and offline.

What the new law aims to do

The legislation is designed to shield children from harmful digital content and online practices that could impact their physical, mental and moral well-being.

It also sets up a clear governance framework, ensuring federal and local authorities work together to safeguard children’s rights in the digital space.

Who must follow the law?

The decree-law applies to internet service providers and digital platforms operating in the UAE or targeting users in the country.

This includes websites, apps, social media platforms, search engines, messaging services, online games, live-streaming platforms, podcasts, video-on-demand services and e-commerce websites.

Parents and caregivers have responsibilities too

Parents and caregivers are also covered under the law and are required to:

  • Monitor children’s online activity
  • Use parental control tools
  • Avoid creating accounts on platforms that are not age-appropriate

Child Digital Safety Council launched

The law establishes a Child Digital Safety Council, chaired by the Minister of Family.

The council will help shape policies, launch nationwide awareness campaigns, and study emerging online risks as technology continues to evolve.

Age controls and platform classification

Digital platforms will be classified based on their risk level and impact on children.

This system introduces age-based controls and restrictions, ensuring content and features are suitable for different age groups.

Strict rules on children’s data

Under the new law, platforms are banned from collecting or sharing personal data of children under 13, except in limited cases.

Educational and health platforms may be exempt, but only under strict privacy and safety conditions approved by the Cabinet.

Mandatory safety features for platforms

Platforms must introduce safety measures such as:

  • Default privacy settings
  • Age verification and restrictions
  • Content filtering and blocking
  • Limits on targeted advertising

Children are also banned from accessing online gambling or betting games.

Internet service providers must activate content filters and ensure guardians agree to service terms, with parental controls enabled.

How harmful content will be handled

Authorities will roll out compliance programmes and clear reporting channels to ensure fast action against harmful or abusive content.

With this new law, the UAE is taking another major step towards creating a safer digital world for children.

With over 35 years of experience in journalism, copywriting, and PR, Michael Gomes is a seasoned media professional deeply rooted in the UAE’s print and digital landscape.

Crime

Dubai Police warns residents of fraudsters impersonating ‘crisis management’ officials

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Dubai Police have detected attempts by fraudsters exploiting recent developments by impersonating individuals claiming to be affiliated with a so-called “Dubai Crisis Management” department and falsely presenting links to the police force.

Authorities said the scammers are attempting to unlawfully obtain sensitive personal information, including UAE Pass credentials and Emirates ID details.

“Members of the public are strongly urged not to share personal or banking information with any unverified party and to report any suspected fraudulent activity immediately through official channels,” Dubai Police said in a post on social media platform X.

Attempt to access bank accounts

Dubai Police warned that sharing such information could allow criminals to conduct SIM swap operations, a method that enables fraudsters to take control of a victim’s mobile number and gain unauthorised access to banking applications and financial accounts.

Officials stressed that Dubai Police never request confidential information, verification codes, passwords or banking details via phone calls or text messages.

Residents are strongly advised:

  • Not to share personal or banking information with unknown callers
  • Not to disclose UAE Pass login details or verification codes
  • To verify any suspicious communication through official channels

Dubai Police urged the public to report suspicious activity immediately by calling 901 or through the official eCrime platform.

Authorities reiterated that vigilance and awareness remain the strongest defence against fraud attempts.









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NCEMA chairman reaffirms the UAE’s resilience, praises swift national response and awareness shown by citizens and residents

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The past two days have demonstrated the effectiveness of the UAE’s coordinated national response system, with authorities acting swiftly and in full alignment with established readiness standards.

Ali Saeed Al Neyadi, Chairman of the National Emergency, Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA), said developments were addressed with a high degree of professionalism and seamless coordination across all relevant entities.

“Over the past two days, the UAE has witnessed a coordinated national response involving all relevant authorities,” Al Neyadi said, noting that actions were taken under approved national frameworks and precise operational procedures.

Coordinated national response activated

Al Neyadi confirmed that the National Emergency, Crisis and Disaster Management framework was activated from the outset, with operational readiness levels elevated based on continuous and comprehensive risk assessments.

He said these measures ensured:

  • Protection of lives
  • Safeguarding of national assets
  • Uninterrupted continuity of essential services

“What has been achieved reflects sustained institutional investment in preparedness, proactive planning, joint national exercises, and the development of resilient capabilities designed to respond effectively to a range of scenarios,” he added.

Field teams recognised for professionalism

The NCEMA Chairman recognised field teams who carried out their duties with professionalism and a strong sense of national responsibility.

Their efforts, he noted, reflected:

  • High levels of preparedness
  • Disciplined coordination
  • Clearly defined operational roles

He said the response reaffirmed the national system’s capability to act swiftly and in an organised manner under approved plans and precise procedures.

Community awareness praised

Al Neyadi also acknowledged the awareness and commitment shown by citizens and residents.

“The cohesion, trust and cooperation demonstrated by the community reflect the spirit of responsibility that characterises the UAE,” he said.

He added that the alignment between institutions and society remains a cornerstone of national preparedness and strengthens the country’s ability to navigate challenges with confidence and composure.

Preparedness at the highest levels

“This phase has once again demonstrated that the UAE possesses a robust and mature national readiness system operating under a clear governance framework and coordinated response structure at the highest levels,” he said.

Authorities, he added, continue to monitor developments around the clock, conduct ongoing assessments and implement necessary measures to maintain the highest levels of preparedness.

“The UAE is confident in emerging from this period stronger and more resilient, supported by the vision of its leadership, the strength of its institutions, and the awareness of its society.”

Public urged to rely on official sources

In closing, Al Neyadi emphasised that the safety, security and stability of the community remain an absolute national priority.

He urged the public to:

  • Adhere to official guidance
  • Rely exclusively on approved sources for information
  • Refrain from sharing unverified content

Authorities will continue to communicate updates transparently as developments unfold, he said.

Source: Wam









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From accommodation, rebooking to hot meals: How the UAE is caring for stranded travellers during flight disruptions

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Thousands of international visitors affected by temporary airspace closures in the UAE are receiving coordinated support from authorities, airlines and hotels as the country prioritises safety and passenger welfare.

While flight operations remain suspended due to regional developments, UAE authorities have activated contingency plans to ensure travellers are accommodated, informed and assisted during the disruption.

The General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) confirmed that passenger safety remains the highest priority, with close coordination between airports, airlines and government entities to manage the evolving situation.

Accommodation and hospitality support 

In a move welcomed by visitors, authorities confirmed that the UAE is covering hosting and accommodation costs for affected transit passengers.

Over 20,000 travellers have already been assisted through integrated response measures, including:

  • Temporary accommodation
  • Meals and refreshments
  • Rebooking coordination
  • Rerouting support where possible

Hotels in Dubai and Abu Dhabi have been directed to extend stays for guests unable to depart due to the temporary closures. Establishments have been instructed to prioritise guest welfare and ensure visitors are not asked to vacate rooms under exceptional circumstances.

The Department of Culture and Tourism, Abu Dhabi, has issued a circular to hotels requesting that guests unable to depart due to circumstances beyond their control be allowed to extend their stay, with the cost of the extension covered by DCT Abu Dhabi.

Airlines offer flexible travel options

Major UAE carriers, including Emirates, Etihad Airways, flydubai and Air Arabia, have introduced flexible rebooking and refund policies to support affected passengers.

International airlines such as Air India, Air India Express, and IndiGo have also adjusted schedules and offered flexibility.

Travellers are being encouraged to monitor official airline websites and mobile apps for real-time updates.

Tourism and public services operating normally

Despite air travel disruptions, daily life across the UAE continues as normal.

Malls, beaches, theme parks and cultural attractions remain open and operational. Public services are functioning smoothly, and standard safety protocols remain in place.

Authorities have reassured residents and visitors that the situation is being closely monitored and managed with a strong focus on safety and stability.

Clear guidance and communication

Government entities, including the UAE Ministry of Interior and the General Civil Aviation Authority, are providing regular updates through official channels to ensure accurate information reaches the public.

Passengers have been advised not to proceed to airports without confirming their flight status, as airlines continue to communicate directly with affected travellers.

Coordinated response

Officials described the response as a whole-of-government effort aimed at minimising inconvenience while maintaining the highest safety standards.

While the situation remains dynamic and dependent on regional developments, authorities have reiterated their commitment to restoring normal operations as soon as conditions permit.

For now, stranded tourists are being supported through structured contingency plans,  underscoring the UAE’s emphasis on preparedness, coordination and visitor welfare.

(Photo courtesy: Abu Dhabi News)









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