The United Arab Emirates has set a minimum age of 15 for social media use, becoming the first Arab nation to impose such a restriction as governments worldwide tighten measures to protect children online.
Under a resolution approved on Thursday, children below 15 are barred from creating, using, or managing personal social media accounts. This means they can no longer post content, comment, share updates, or join public groups. According to the UAE government’s media office, the regulation is designed to strengthen online safety and reduce children’s exposure to harmful content and unsafe digital interactions.
Teenagers aged 15 and 16 will be permitted to access social media platforms under strict safeguards, including age‑appropriate content filters, limits on contact with unknown users, screen‑time management tools, and enhanced parental supervision features.
The new rules apply to all social media platforms operating within the UAE and require companies to enforce strict age-verification systems, including digital identity checks and artificial intelligence-supported verification tools. Self-declaration of age will not be accepted.
Platforms are also required to disable accounts belonging to users under 15, prevent attempts to bypass verification systems, and ensure that children’s data is not used for targeted advertising or behavioural profiling. The government said the measures are designed to protect children from inappropriate content, excessive screen use, and unsafe online interactions, while also safeguarding their personal data in the digital space.
Social media companies have been given up to 12 months to fully comply with the new regulations. Authorities say the framework aligns with global efforts to strengthen child online protection while ensuring responsible access to digital platforms.
Several countries, including Australia and others in Europe, have also introduced or proposed stricter measures aimed at regulating children’s access to social media amid growing concerns about mental health and online safety.
Source: Abigail Teye
