UAE warns social media users of AI image misuse with fines up to Dh1 million
Rules apply to symbols, public figures, and false content online
ABU DHABI – The UAE Media Council has issued a strong warning against the misuse of artificial intelligence (AI) to generate images, stressing that improper use is a violation of national media content standards.
The announcement, made on Thursday, emphasised that creating AI-generated depictions of national symbols or public figures without prior approval is illegal.
The council further highlighted that using AI tools to spread misinformation, incite hate speech, defame individuals, or attack social values will be treated as a media offence under the Media Violations Regulation. These rules apply not only to media organisations but also to social media users and independent content creators.
Clear regulations
The UAE Media Council underscored that violations of these regulations may lead to fines and administrative penalties. It urged all parties to act with professional and ethical responsibility, in line with approved laws and standards.
UAE Media Council: Using AI to depict national symbols without prior approval violates media content standards#InfographicWam https://t.co/GLdB3pTrvs pic.twitter.com/i74bfHINuK
— WAM English (@WAMNEWS_ENG) September 25, 2025
Earlier in 2025, the council entered into a contract with data company Presight to employ AI for analysing and validating a range of media content, including films, books and artwork.
Penalties listed
The scale of penalties depends on the degree of offence, with fines increasing across four levels. These include:
- Disrespecting Islamic beliefs: Dh100,000 (first degree), Dh200,000 (second), Dh400,000 (third), Dh1 million (fourth)
- Disrespecting the state’s system of government, institutions or interests: Dh50,000 to Dh500,000 across four degrees
- Disrespecting the state’s domestic or international policies: Dh50,000 to Dh500,000
- Publishing harmful content against national unity: Dh30,000 to Dh250,000
- Circulating materials violating public morals: Dh25,000 to Dh100,000
- Publishing false news or forged documents: Dh10,000 to Dh100,000
- Spreading rumours or false news: Dh10,000 to Dh80,000
Social responsibility
The council called on all social media users, media entities and content creators to comply fully with the regulations. It reiterated that protecting the state’s values, symbols and unity is paramount, with clear consequences for those who breach the law.