UAE Public Prosecution has issued a warning over a possible jail term and a $136,000 (AED500,000) fine for swearing online.
In a post on official social media accounts public prosecutors said jail terms and fines can be given for swearing and slander when using an information network, means of technology and information systems.
The punishments can extend to use of language on social media and messaging channels.
UAE swearing fines
According to Public Prosecution heavier punishments will be sought for acts against public sector employees in the line of duty.
The statement said: “Swearing and slander using an information network shall be sentenced to imprisonment and/or fined a monetary penalty of not less than AED250,000 and not more than AED500,000”.
The punishments fall under Article 43 of the Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021 for combatting e-crimes and rumours.
Public Prosecution added that, as well as swearing, the offence extends to: “Whoever swears at others or attributes thereto an incident that would make such other person subject to punishment or disdain by others using an information network, a means of technology or an information system.
“If one of the acts stated in the first paragraph of this article is committed against a public employee or a person assigned to a public service or on the occasion of his performance of this job this shall constitute a circumstance calling for the application of a heavier punishment for the crime.”
The centre will develop a range of initiatives and programmes to promote positive behaviour and spread a culture of tolerance, including media awareness, legal guidance, and community outreach.
It will also monitor negative social behaviours and phenomena that could impact Emirati society’s values and launch campaigns to raise awareness of their dangers and negative effects.
To ensure its message reaches all segments of society, especially the youth, the centre will leverage all media channels and emerging technologies in the UAE.
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