ABU DHABI – The United Arab Emirates has introduced new regulations restricting children under the age of 15 from accessing social media platforms. The decision aims to improve online safety and protect children from potential digital risks.
The new resolution was approved on June 18. Under the policy, children below 15 years will not be allowed to create personal accounts or use the full features of social media platforms.
The restrictions mean young users cannot upload content, comment on posts, share material, or participate in public groups. The UAE government has clarified that parental permission will not provide an exemption from the new rule.
Children aged 15 and 16 will still be able to use Social Media platforms. However, their access will be controlled through additional safety measures.
Their accounts will include age-based content restrictions and enhanced protective settings. Platforms will also be required to limit high-risk features and manage the time children spend online.
The new rules will require companies to provide parental control options. They will also have to ensure that digital experiences remain suitable for younger users.
The UAE has also introduced stricter age verification requirements. Currently, many platforms depend on users entering their own age details.
Authorities said self-declared ages are not considered a reliable method. Under the new framework, Social Media companies must introduce systems to confirm children’s digital identities.
These systems may include artificial intelligence tools, biometric technology, or other approved verification methods. The Child Digital Safety Council will oversee and review these mechanisms regularly.
Platforms operating in the UAE will receive up to 12 months to gradually implement the new standards. Companies will coordinate with authorities during the transition period.
The UAE said the policy follows global efforts to improve child protection online. Officials stated that the goal is to maintain a balance between digital access and online safety.
A 2024 survey showed that children in the UAE spend around three hours daily on social media platforms. Experts have warned that excessive use may contribute to issues such as anxiety, attention problems, and academic difficulties.
Experts have also explained that online interactions, including likes, comments, and shares, can encourage repeated engagement. These features may activate the brain’s reward system and increase dependency on digital platforms.
In other news read more about UK Considers New Rules as Social Media Use Among Children Raises Concerns
With the new regulations, the UAE joins several countries introducing stronger controls on children’s Social Media usage, including the UK, Australia, and Malaysia. The move reflects growing international concerns about protecting young users in the digital environment.
