Cyberbullying under UAE law refers to any form of digital abuse carried out through electronic communication tools, and is addressed chiefly by two federal laws: Federal Decree-Law No. (34) of 2021 on Combating Rumors and Cybercrimes, which supplies the general legal framework, and Federal Decree-Law No. (26) of 2025 on Child Protection in the Digital Space, in force since 1 January 2026, which strengthens protections for minors online.
What counts as cyberbullying under UAE law?
Under UAE law, cyberbullying is digital abuse carried out through electronic communication tools, such as abusive messages, spreading rumours, sharing private images without consent, impersonating someone, or harassment on social media.
UAE law treats cyberbullying as a form of digital abuse carried out through electronic communication tools — this can include abusive messages, spreading rumors, sharing private images without consent, impersonating someone, or harassment conducted through social media.
What are the forms of cyberbullying under UAE law?
UAE law recognises several forms of cyberbullying: online defamation and insult, online harassment, violating privacy by publishing private photos or personal information without consent, cyber extortion, and group cyberbullying that incites others on social media against a person.
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Online defamation and insult
Publishing offensive statements or false accusations about another person.
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Online harassment
Sending unwanted messages intended to annoy, intimidate, or threaten someone.
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Violation of privacy
Publishing private photos or personal information without the subject's consent.
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Cyber extortion
Threatening to publish sensitive information unless the target provides a personal benefit.
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Group cyberbullying
Inciting others on social media to turn against a specific individual.
With a dedicated child-protection law now in force alongside the broader cybercrime framework, the UAE's approach to digital abuse is becoming more layered and more responsive to how online harm actually occurs — including harm directed specifically at minors. Husain Al Ali Advocates & Legal Consultants advises individuals and families on reporting, evidence-gathering, and pursuing legal action for cyberbullying and other digital abuse.
Husain Al Ali is a UAE-licensed Advocate by Ministry of Justice, admitted to practice before local and Federal Courts of the UAE.
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