United Arab Emirates introduces the Child Digital Safety Law

A new law, the Child Digital Safety Law, has come into effect in the United Arab Emirates to protect children's online activities.

According to Arab media, under this law, the personal data of children under the age of 13 cannot be used without the express, written and verifiable consent of the parents.

Social media platforms must also provide an easy way to withdraw this consent at any time and without giving any reason.

Under this law, the use of children's data for commercial purposes or targeted advertising is prohibited.

In addition, access to online commercial games, gambling and betting platforms has been completely blocked for children under the age of 18.

Under this new law, parents and guardians will now have the legal responsibility to monitor and manage their children's online activities.

After this law, children's digital safety is no longer just a moral or educational matter, but has acquired a formal legal status.

The new law imposes strict restrictions on harmful online content, excessive digital engagement and the use of children’s personal data.

The law imposes clear responsibilities not only on parents but also on digital platforms and internet service providers.

According to the Times of India, parents or guardians who do not take appropriate monitoring, control or security measures on their children’s online activity can be fined Dh1 million.

The law is not limited to UAE-based companies but also covers all foreign social media, gaming apps, websites and online services.

These platforms have been made mandatory for age verification of children, content filtering, parental controls and strict restrictions on advertisements targeting children.

Parents have also been instructed to immediately inform the authorities if they see obscene and harmful content for children on any social media platform.

It should be remembered that 72% of children aged 8 to 12 in the Emirates use smartphones daily, while only 43% of parents regularly monitor their online activities.