ABU DHABI: The United Arab Emirates has brought into force a new Child Digital Safety Law aimed at strengthening online protection for minors and reducing their exposure to harmful digital content, Arab media reported.
Under the legislation, parents are now legally responsible for supervising their children’s digital activity, including the use of mobile phones, tablets and laptops. Authorities said parental oversight is no longer advisory but a statutory obligation.
The law also requires social media platforms, online gaming services, search engines and streaming providers to ensure child-safe environments. Digital companies, including those operating from outside the UAE, must comply with the new standards when offering services in the country.
Mandatory measures include age verification for children’s accounts, content filtering, parental controls, restrictions on targeted advertising and limits on screen time.
Emirati officials said more than 4,000 digital platforms are currently under monitoring, adding that nearly 60% of children in the UAE have previously encountered inappropriate online material.
Authorities warned that companies found violating the regulations could face fines, operational restrictions or suspension of services within the UAE.
Parents were urged to remain vigilant and actively protect children from online threats such as cyber violence, blackmail, fraud and explicit content.
