UAE issues law to protect children from digital risks and ensure safe technology use

The UAE Government has issued a new federal decree law focused on child digital safety, establishing a robust framework to protect children from online risks and ensure the responsible and secure use of technology across the country.

The legislation comes in alignment with the UAE’s declaration of 2026 as the Year of the Family, underscoring the nation’s long-term commitment to strengthening family cohesion and improving children’s overall quality of life.

According to the government, the law aims to safeguard children from harmful digital content and online practices that could negatively impact their physical, psychological, or moral well-being. It introduces a comprehensive set of regulations that place accountability on both individuals and technology service providers operating in or targeting the UAE.

Law applies to all digital service providers

The decree applies to a broad spectrum of digital platforms and internet service providers, including:

• Websites and search engines

• Smart and messaging applications

• Online gaming and social media platforms

• Live streaming and podcast platforms

• Video-on-demand and streaming services

• E-commerce platforms and online forums

The scope ensures that any platform offering digital services within the UAE or targeting UAE users must comply with the law’s child safety and data protection provisions.

Strengthening the UAE’s digital responsibility framework

The introduction of the child digital safety law forms part of the UAE’s holistic digital governance strategy, reinforcing its position as a global leader in safe and ethical technology adoption.

Officials emphasized that the law is designed not only to shield children from online threats such as cyberbullying, exploitation, or exposure to inappropriate content but also to encourage the responsible use of technology as a tool for learning, communication, and creativity.

By adopting this legislative measure, the UAE continues to demonstrate its proactive stance in creating a secure digital ecosystem for families, ensuring that innovation and protection progress hand in hand as the country moves into the Year of the Family 2026.