UAE Cabinet Just Restricted Teens Under 15 Years Old From Social Media & Here’s All about It

On Thursday, June 18th, the UAE Cabinet passed a landmark resolution. This resolution regulates access of children to social media platforms. The resolution sets the minimum age for social media users at 15 years. Here’s all you need to know about this big development coming from the country regarding the use of social media.

UAE Cabinet Passes Resolution For Social Media Use

According to the latest resolution passed by the UAE cabinet, the usage of social media platforms has been restricted to those 15 years. Yes, this resolution, as mentioned by the Gulf News, allows platforms to progressively implement the new standard. This will be done through the transitional period of up to 12 months. The resolution comes amid growing use of the platforms by children.

Children Under 15 Years Prohibited

UAE Cabinet Issues Resolution Regulating Children’s Access to Social Media Platforms pic.twitter.com/n5q3tRmkpr

— UAEGOV (@UAEmediaoffice) June 18, 2026

So, coming to the resolution, children who are under the age of 15 are banned from creating or using personal accounts on social media platforms. They will not be permitted to access the full features. Moreover, children between 15 and 16 years will be provided with regulated and safe access to the platform. However, these will be subject to age-appropriate content classification.

There will be restricted introduction, regulated usage time, and even parental controls. Platforms are therefore required to implement an accurate and reliable age verification mechanism. They must monitor non-compliant accounts and take immediate action so that there is compliance. This resolution applies to all social media platforms that allow users to create accounts or personal profiles. Moreover, parental consent does not constitute a valid exemption from the prohibition or restrictions set out in the resolution. This means even if parents do give permission, the permission cannot be used to get around the rule.

Development Of Integrated National Framework

Not to mention, with the increased risk of digital challenges, this usage, along with exposure to inappropriate content and unsafe interaction, has been the driver behind the decision. Moreover, the development also comes with growing personal data collection and patterns of excessive use.

This has led to the development of an integrated national framework. It allows children to benefit from technology while also ensuring that they are protected in the digital environment. Not to mention, the resolution reflects the country’s effort in developing advanced legislative models, which keep pace with the global digital transformation. Children’s safety on the internet is amongst the top priorities of the government.

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For The Safety Of Children

This resolution also bans the use of processing children’s personal data for commercial purposes on the basis of tracking of their digital activities. So, companies are no longer allowed to collect and use children’s personal information for business or advertising purposes.

As it happens, the Child Digital Safety Council will assess the risk and impact that is associated with children’s access to social media platforms. Not to mention, it proposes the necessary measures in coordination with relevant federal and local authorities.

With the UAE passing this resolution, it reinstates the country’s position as a leading global model when it comes to child protection and digital safety. So, if you know someone who has children in this age group, you might want to share this development with them.

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