As daily life has moved online, cyberbullying has become one of the defining challenges for modern legal systems — and the UAE has responded with legislation built to keep pace with how people actually experience harm on digital platforms. Two laws work together here: Federal Decree-Law No. (34) of 2021 on Combating Rumors and Cybercrimes, which supplies the general legal framework for digital abuse, and Federal Decree-Law No. (26) of 2025 on Child Protection in the Digital Space, which came into force on 1 January 2026 and specifically strengthens protections for minors online.
What Counts as Cyberbullying
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.
Forms of Cyberbullying Recognized Under UAE Law
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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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