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.
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