Khaleej Times

Policy & Legal Updates

UAE Laws Establish Criminal Penalties for Defamatory Online Reviews and Complaints

UAE legislation imposes severe criminal penalties, including imprisonment and fines of up to Dh500,000, for online statements that constitute defamation, insult, or invasion of privacy. Legal guidance published in Khaleej Times highlights the distinction between objective, evidence-backed consumer feedback and unlawful personal attacks or false claims. The statutory framework is governed by Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021 on Cybercrimes alongside the UAE Crimes and Penalties Law.

Policy & Legal Updates

UAE Cybercrime Law Outlines Criminal Penalties for Defamatory Online Business Reviews

UAE legal provisions under Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021 criminalise fabricated, defamatory, or extortionist online reviews against businesses. Dubai Police recently referred a group to Public Prosecution after commercial shops coordinated fake Google Maps reviews against a competitor without visiting the premises.

China–UAE News

Over 37,000 Companies Join Dubai Chamber as Member Trade Reaches Dh252 Billion

A total of 37,373 new companies joined the Dubai Chamber of Commerce during the first nine months of 2026. Member exports and re-exports reached Dh252 billion over the same period, Chairman Sultan Al Mansoori announced in Shenzhen, China.

Policy & Legal Updates

Dubai Municipality Issues Unified Content Guidelines for Outdoor Advertising

Dubai Municipality has introduced the Advertising Content Regulation Guidelines for the Emirate of Dubai to set unified visual and content standards for outdoor advertisements. The framework covers written messaging, imagery, animations, digital displays, and the integration of artificial intelligence. The new rules aim to protect the city's visual and cultural identity while promoting public safety and consumer protection.