UAE Joins Global Push to Restrict Children’s Access to Social Media

UAE Joins Global Push to Restrict Children’s Access to Social Media
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The United Arab Emirates has introduced new rules setting 15 as the minimum age for social media use, becoming the first Arab country to impose such a restriction as governments worldwide move to tighten online protections for children.

Under the new regulation, children under 15 will be prohibited from creating, using or operating personal social media accounts. The measure is aimed at reducing children’s exposure to inappropriate content, unsafe online interactions, excessive screen time and the misuse of personal data.

Social media companies operating in the UAE will be required to introduce stronger age-verification systems, including digital identity checks and artificial intelligence-supported tools. Platforms must also disable underage accounts and prevent users from bypassing age restrictions. Companies have been given up to 12 months to comply with the new rules.

The UAE’s decision reflects a broader international shift toward regulating children’s access to online platforms. Australia has already introduced a nationwide ban preventing children under 16 from using major social media services, while the United Kingdom is preparing similar restrictions for under-16s. Other countries, including Malaysia, Indonesia and Turkey, have also moved toward stricter controls or policy discussions on children’s digital access.