UAE becomes first Arab nation to ban social media use for children under 15
PTC Web Desk: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has approved a new regulation that prohibits children under the age of 15 from creating or using personal social media accounts. With this decision, the UAE has become the first Arab nation to introduce a minimum age requirement for social media access.
Under the new rules, children below 15 years will not be allowed to open personal accounts on social networking platforms. Their access to certain features of these platforms will also be restricted.
The move comes as governments around the world increase efforts to protect children from the risks associated with social media. Concerns have grown over issues such as harmful online content, cyberbullying, excessive screen time and the impact of social media on young people's mental well-being.
Authorities believe stricter regulations can help create a safer digital environment for children and reduce exposure to online threats.
The UAE's decision follows similar steps taken by several countries that are tightening rules around children's access to social media.
Australia was among the first nations to introduce strict age-based restrictions, preventing children under 16 from holding social media accounts. Platforms that fail to prevent underage users from accessing their services can face significant financial penalties.
Malaysia has also been exploring measures to improve online safety for young internet users.
The United Kingdom is also preparing to introduce tougher social media regulations for minors. Prime Minister Keir Starmer recently announced plans to restrict children under 16 from using major social media platforms, including TikTok, Snapchat and YouTube.
The proposed measures are expected to come into effect next year and would apply to platforms such as Instagram, Facebook and X as well.
While announcing the proposal, Starmer said many parents have expressed concerns about the negative impact of social media on children and called for stronger safeguards.
However, child-focused services such as YouTube Kids and messaging platforms including WhatsApp and Signal are expected to remain exempt from the proposed UK restrictions.
- With inputs from agencies
