UAE to Ban Social Media Access for Minors Under 18 in New Safety Law

The UAE government is moving to prohibit individuals under the age of 18 from accessing social media platforms under a new federal legislative framework. The proposed law mandates that digital platforms implement strict age-verification protocols to prevent minors from creating accounts and accessing age-inappropriate content. Strict Age Verification Mandates The legislation requires social media companies to utilize robust verification technologies, potentially including Emirates ID integration or biometric checks, to confirm user ages. This move follows a formal review by the Federal National Council (FNC) regarding the impact of digital platforms on the mental health and safety of UAE youth. Tech giants failing to enforce these limits face significant financial penalties and operational restrictions within the country. National Security and Mental Health Authorities have identified cyberbullying, data privacy risks, and digital addiction as primary drivers for the restriction. The law will also outline the responsibilities of legal guardians, holding parents accountable if they facilitate the creation of accounts for children below the age threshold. This regulatory shift…