Overview
- The UAE cabinet resolution bars people under 15 from creating, using or operating personal social media accounts and orders platforms to monitor and deactivate such accounts.
- The rule also blocks under-15s from interactive features on platforms, including posting, commenting, sharing and joining public groups or open channels.
- Authorities in charge of media and telecoms are empowered to issue warnings, partially or fully block platforms and apply administrative sanctions if companies do not comply.
- Platforms must put in stronger age-verification and safety controls during the 12-month adjustment period, with governments saying self-declared age will not be enough.
- The UAE says it is the first Arab state to set a legal minimum age and officials point to similar moves elsewhere, including a UK plan for an under-16 restriction set for 2027, as part of a wider push to protect children online.