UAE: Up to two years' jail, Dh200,000 fine for spreading rumours, fake news
Public Prosecution announces penalty for spreading rumours, false news
DUBAI – At a time when we are constantly receiving information through various channels, including social media, it has become increasingly important to distinguish verified information from fake news, to curb the spread of misinformation. The UAE has stringent laws against the circulation of false information and rumours on social media and on January 2, the UAE Public Prosecution posted a video on its official social media channels, warning people about the penalty for posting misinformation and false news.
What is the penalty for spreading fake news in the UAE?
According to Article 52 of Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021 on combatting rumours and cybercrimes the punishment for spreading rumours or publishing false news is one year in jail and a fine of Dh100,000.
If the information being published or shared results in agitating or stirring up public opinion against the State authorities or institutions or are committed at the time of pandemics, crisis, emergencies or disasters the punishment is two years in jail and a fine of Dh200,000.
Penalty shall be detention for a minimum term of two years and a minimum fine of Dh200,000 if any of the above acts results in agitating or stirring up public opinion against the state authorities or institutions or are committed at the time of pandemics, crisis, emergencies or disasters.
UAE Public Prosecution's campaign against fake news
The video was posted on UAE Public Prosecution’s official social media channels as part of their ongoing campaign against spreading and circulating misinformation on social media. The campaign’s goal is to bring awareness about UAE’s laws against cybercrime among citizens and residents.