UAE: On March 16, the NMO, the Emirates’ authority concerned with the development of UAE social media laws, stated that all the residents and non-residents residing in the nation must maintain national values and principles of respect, coexistence, and tolerance. An official statement from the office stressed that social media users must abide by legal and ethical regulations, and a warning against disrespecting content concerned with public figures, national symbols, societies, etc., was given.
Further, the statement stated that NMO will work together with other relevant authorities and will take legal action against all social media users who violate these principles or values. Additionally, the statement clarified that stress on compliance with UAE social media laws is to ensure the maintenance of a safe and respectful digital environment. A caution was released by the NMO in its statement that anyone guilty of sharing misleading information or hate speech and disrespectful content, directly, indirectly, or by suggestion, will be subjected to strict UAE cybercrime penalties.
UAE Alert for Social Media Users: Stay Within Legal Boundaries
The recent statement by the NMO underlined that all UAE residents are responsible for preserving the nation’s global reputation, as they’re the ambassadors of the Emirates, which was emphasized by the President. His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin encourages residents to reinforce the UAE’s positive image through their knowledge, national identity, and upbringing. Emphasizing this, he stated every action, whether positive or negative, taken by a UAE citizen showcases their Emirati identity. He further said that each Emirati resident is the protector of the Emirates’ reputation and honor and is equally responsible for reinforcing its reputation.
NMO alerted social media users that they must maintain their legal boundaries when publishing or sharing content across various social media platforms. The office clarified that it is dedicated to maintaining a safe and respectful digital landscape and will continue to work together with relevant authorities to monitor violating activities. Additionally, the office encouraged everyone to report any case of non-compliance to the concerned authority through official channels to make their contribution towards the maintenance of a credible and responsible digital media landscape.
Compliance with UAE Social Media Laws to Avoid Legal Issues
The National Media Office, in its statement, encouraged Emirates residents to exemplify the nation’s leadership values that set an example of modesty and high ethical norms. It also reaffirmed that all the residents on social media must behave according to UAE’s leadership values to preserve authentic customs and values.
In addition to emphasizing avoidance of online arguments, the guidelines set by the UAE’s current prime minister, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin were underlined. The guidelines outlining the principles or values that an Emirati resident on social media must adhere to include the wisdom and ethics of the late founding father of the Emirates, His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin; showcasing the nation’s knowledge, civilization, and culture; using respectful language and avoiding insults; encouraging respectful and positive communication; and collaborating positively with ideas, cultures, and societies.
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