UAE introduces minimum age limit for social media use

The United Arab Emirates has become the first Arab nation to establish a minimum age requirement for social media usage.

On June 18, the UAE Cabinet approved a resolution aimed at regulating children’s access to digital platforms and enhancing online safety.

According to a statement from the UAE Government Media Office, children younger than 15 will no longer be allowed to create or operate personal social media accounts or access the full range of platform features.

The measure is part of a broader strategy to create a safer online environment for young users and provide clearer rules governing digital engagement.

Teenagers aged 15 and 16 will be permitted to use social media under specific safeguards, including age-appropriate content restrictions, limits on interactions and screen time, and parental oversight.

Social media companies have been granted a transition period of up to 12 months to implement the new regulations in coordination with government authorities. Platforms will also be required to deploy reliable age-verification systems to prevent underage access.

The resolution makes it clear that parental consent cannot override the age restrictions. Companies must actively identify and address non-compliant accounts while refraining from using children’s personal data for commercial purposes based on tracking their online behavior.

Parents and guardians will be expected to monitor their children’s approved online activities and promote responsible internet usage. Officials say the framework is designed to help families guide children toward healthier digital habits while strengthening protections for minors.

The UAE’s move reflects a growing international trend as governments worldwide consider stricter regulations to address concerns over harmful online content, excessive screen time, privacy issues, and other risks associated with social media.