UAE becomes first Arab nation to ban social media for children under 15

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Social media platforms have up to 12 months to comply with the new regulations. Photo: Agency
Pop Family Reporter
20 Jun 2026 03:00pm
The new rule gives social media platforms one year to remove under-age accounts as more countries tighten digital safety measures for children

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has become the first Arab nation to introduce a nationwide social media ban for children under the age of 15, marking another step in the global push to create safer online spaces for young users.

Under a new Cabinet resolution, children below 15 will no longer be allowed to create or operate personal social media accounts. Platforms have 12 months to identify and remove under-age accounts or risk facing strict penalties, including possible restrictions on operating in the country.

According to state news agency WAM, the move is aimed at protecting children from inappropriate content, unsafe online interactions, excessive screen time and the misuse of personal data.

Part of a growing global trend

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The UAE joins a growing list of countries introducing tighter rules around children's access to social media.

Australia was the first to approve a nationwide ban for users under 16, while countries including the United Kingdom, Canada, Indonesia, Malaysia, Türkiye and several European nations have also introduced or proposed measures to strengthen online safety for young people.

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While approaches vary from country to country, many governments share the same concern: helping children navigate the digital world more safely.

Extra safeguards for older teens

Teenagers aged 15 and 16 will still be allowed to use social media, but under stricter safety settings.

These include age-appropriate content filters, screen-time controls and limitations on interacting with strangers, creating a more supervised online experience during the teenage years.

Supporters believe such measures can reduce children's exposure to harmful content and encourage healthier digital habits.

However, critics argue that age bans remain difficult to enforce and may limit young people's opportunities to connect, communicate and express themselves online.

As conversations around children's online wellbeing continue worldwide, the UAE's latest policy reflects a growing shift towards placing digital safety at the centre of parenting and public policy.

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