The UAE government has announced a Federal Decree-Law on child digital safety, establishing a strong legal framework to protect children from online risks. This law encourages safe and age-appropriate use of digital content while safeguarding children’s physical, psychological, and moral well-being.
The new legislation aligns with the UAE’s vision for a safe and supportive family environment and complements its broader initiatives for child welfare. It forms a key part of the country’s commitment to creating secure digital spaces for younger generations.
Comprehensive Protection for Children Online
The decree-law applies to all internet service providers and digital platforms operating within the UAE or targeting users in the country. It covers a wide range of platforms including websites, search engines, smart apps, messaging services, forums, online games, social media, live streaming services, podcasts, video-on-demand platforms, and e-commerce platforms.
In addition, the law outlines clear responsibilities for caregivers, emphasizing their role in ensuring the digital safety of children under their care. It sets a strong foundation for accountability and active supervision in digital interactions.
Key Provisions of the Decree-Law
Establishing the Child Digital Safety Council
A central feature of the legislation is the creation of the Child Digital Safety Council, chaired by the Minister of Family. This council acts as an advisory and coordinating body, working to strengthen collaboration between federal and local authorities as well as the private sector.
The council’s responsibilities include proposing policies, legislation, and national strategies to achieve high standards of digital safety for children. It also recommends awareness campaigns and conducts studies to monitor emerging digital risks as technology evolves.
Platform Classification and Risk Assessment
The decree-law introduces a system to categorize digital platforms based on their risks and potential impact on children. This classification framework provides regulatory standards depending on platform type, content, usage volume, and child impact. Age-appropriate controls and restrictions are included to ensure safe digital experiences for all children.
Protecting Children’s Personal Data
Under the law, digital platforms are prohibited from collecting, processing, publishing, or sharing the personal data of children under 13, except for specific educational or health purposes authorized through official channels. Appropriate safeguards must be implemented to maintain privacy and security.
Obligations for Digital Platforms
Digital platforms are required to implement measures such as default privacy settings, age-verification mechanisms, content filtering, age-rating systems, and tools to restrict access based on age. The law also bans children from participating in online commercial games involving gambling or money-based activities.
Responsibilities of Internet Service Providers and Caregivers
Internet service providers must activate content-filtering systems and ensure safe and supervised internet use for children. Guardians are required to sign terms of service incorporating parental control tools and other safety measures.
Caregivers are explicitly tasked with monitoring digital activity, using parental controls, and avoiding account creation on platforms that are not age-appropriate or do not comply with child protection standards. Authorities will develop programs and mechanisms to support compliance with these obligations and ensure rapid reporting and response to harmful online content.
A Safer Digital Future for UAE Children
This decree-law represents a significant step in creating a safe online environment for children in the UAE. By defining clear responsibilities for platforms, caregivers, and authorities, it ensures children can enjoy digital experiences while being shielded from risks. The law not only safeguards children but also promotes responsible digital habits that support their overall growth and development.
The UAE continues to prioritize the safety and well-being of its youngest citizens, demonstrating a proactive approach to the challenges of the modern digital world.
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