Major announcement by the UAE: Social media ban for children under 15; becomes the first Arab country to do so..
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) government has taken a major decision to protect children from the dangers of the digital world. The UAE Cabinet, chaired by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, has approved a new regulation setting the minimum age for using social media at 15 years. The UAE has become the first Arab nation to adopt such a measure.
**What are the rules for children under 15?**
Children under the age of 15 will no longer be able to create social media accounts. They will be strictly prohibited from using features such as posting, commenting, sharing content, or joining public groups.
**What are the rules for adolescents aged 15 to 16?**
Adolescents in this age group will be permitted to use social media, but with limited access and strict safety safeguards. They will only be shown content appropriate for their age, and their usage time will be restricted.
Additionally, parental monitoring tools will be enhanced. Crucially, the government has clarified that even if parents wish to permit their children, these rules cannot be violated or bypassed.
**Responsibilities of social media companies**
All platforms operating in the UAE or targeting UAE users must now implement these strict changes:
* **Age Verification:** Simply entering a date of birth will no longer suffice. Companies must verify the user's actual age using digital identity systems and new technologies.
* **Account Blocking:** Accounts belonging to underage users or those violating the rules must be blocked.
* **Restrictions on Advertising:** There will be a complete ban on showing targeted advertisements based on tracking children's data. Privacy measures must be significantly strengthened.
**How much time do companies have?** The UAE's National Media Authority (NMA) and the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) will ensure strict compliance with these regulations. All social media companies have been granted a period of 12 months (one year) to implement these changes in their systems.
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