DUBAI: In 2026, the UAE has significantly tightened its oversight of the digital landscape. With the “Content Creator” boom reaching its peak, the UAE Media Council and Dubai Police have implemented a strict enforcement strategy to ensure the city’s reputation and the privacy of its residents are protected.
Ignorance of the law is not a defense. Here are the 5 critical mistakes that could lead to fines of up to AED 100,000 or more.
1. Violation of Privacy (The “Background” Mistake)
Under UAE Cybercrime Law, photographing or filming people in public without their explicit consent is a serious offense—even if they are just in the background of your vlog.
- The Fine: AED 50,000 to AED 150,000.
- The Law: Article 44 states that “invading the privacy of a person” by taking their picture or video without permission is punishable by fines and potential jail time.
- Creator Tip: If you are filming in a crowded place like the Dubai Mall, use “blur” effects in post-production or ensure your framing doesn’t focus on identifiable strangers.
2. Filming Without a Permit (Semi-Government & Private Property)
Many creators assume that because a place is “public-facing” (like City Walk, Bluewaters, or certain beaches), they can film freely.
- The Fine: AED 10,000 to AED 50,000.
- The Reality: Locations owned by developers like Meraas, Emaar, or Nakheel are considered private property. Commercial filming (anything for a brand or a monetized channel) requires a permit from the Dubai Film and TV Commission (DFTC).
- Creator Tip: Always check if a location requires a “No Objection Certificate” (NOC) before setting up a tripod.
3. Offensive Content & “Inciting Contempt”
The UAE has a zero-tolerance policy for content that is deemed culturally insensitive, mocks the government, or insults religions.
- The Fine: Up to AED 500,000 and deportation.
- The Reality: What might be considered “edgy humor” in the West can be classified as “contempt of religion” or “harming national unity” in the UAE. This includes offensive gestures, using foul language in public, or filming “pranks” that scare or harass others.
4. Missing the “AD” Label (Disclosure Fines)
The UAE Media Council (UAEMC) requires 100% transparency for paid partnerships.
- The Fine: AED 10,000 per post.
- The Law: You must clearly state if a post is a paid advertisement. The tags #AD, #PaidPartnership, or #Promotion must be visible and easy to read. Submerging the disclosure in a sea of 30 other hashtags is considered “misleading” and can trigger a fine.
5. Filming “Restricted” Areas (Security & Government)
This remains the most common mistake for new creators and tourists.
- The Fine: AED 5,000 to AED 50,000 + Confiscation of equipment.
- The Areas: Filming government buildings, embassies, military sites, or even certain airports/ports is strictly forbidden. Look for the “No Photography” signs; they are legally binding.
📊 Summary of Fines for 2026
| Offense | Minimum Fine | Maximum Penalty |
| Privacy Breach | AED 50,000 | Jail & Deportation |
| Unlicensed Ads | AED 10,000 | Account Suspension |
| Filming Gov Sites | AED 5,000 | Equipment Confiscation |
| Cultural Offense | AED 100,000 | Permanent Ban from UAE |
💡 2026 Legal Safeguard
Before you hit record, ask yourself: “Do I have a permit for this spot, and am I respecting the privacy of those around me?” If the answer is no, it’s not worth the AED 100,000 risk.
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