UAE bans social media access for children under 15 in new digital safety law
Stronger safeguards introduced for teens aged 15 to 16 users
DUBAI -- The UAE Cabinet has issued a resolution banning children under the age of 15 from creating or using social media accounts, introducing one of the region’s most structured frameworks for online child protection.
The move sets a clear legal threshold for digital access while tightening platform accountability. Social media companies will be given up to 12 months to implement the new standards in coordination with authorities.
The decision comes as part of a broader effort to regulate children’s digital engagement and improve online safety across platforms operating in the country. Officials have outlined strict requirements covering age verification, content classification and parental oversight, aiming to create a more controlled digital environment for young users.
UAE Cabinet Issues Resolution Regulating Children's Access to Social Media Platforms pic.twitter.com/n5q3tRmkpr
— UAEGOV (@UAEmediaoffice) June 18, 2026
Age limit
Under the new rules, children below 15 will not be allowed to create personal accounts or access full features of social media platforms. The restriction is absolute, with no exemption allowed even if parental consent is provided.
For users aged between 15 and 16, access will be permitted only under strict safeguards. These include age-appropriate content filters, restricted interaction features, controlled screen time and enhanced parental control tools designed to limit exposure to high-risk online behaviour.
Platforms will also be required to actively monitor accounts that violate compliance rules and take immediate corrective action where necessary.
Verification shift
The resolution introduces a major shift in how age is verified online. Self-declared age entries will no longer be accepted. Instead, platforms must deploy verified systems such as AI-based tools, biometric checks or other approved technologies authorised by the Child Digital Safety Council.
These mechanisms must meet strict data protection standards, including minimised data collection, secure processing and limits on how long personal information is retained. Regular audits and transparency measures will also be required to ensure system reliability.
Family role
The resolution places clear responsibility on caregivers to supervise children’s online activity and promote safe digital habits. Families are expected to actively guide children in responsible usage, supported by tools and frameworks provided under the new policy.
In addition, the rules prohibit the use of children’s personal data for commercial purposes based on tracking online behaviour, effectively blocking targeted advertising using minors’ digital activity.
The UAE’s approach aligns with a growing international trend, with several countries introducing similar age-based restrictions for social media use. A 2024 survey highlighted that children in the UAE spend around three hours daily on such platforms, raising concerns over attention, mental wellbeing and academic impact.