Under a cabinet resolution announced on Thursday, children under the age of 15 will be prohibited from creating, using, or operating personal social media accounts. The decision is aimed at strengthening online safety and protecting minors from potential digital risks.

According to the state-run WAM news agency, social media platforms will be required to identify and disable accounts belonging to underage users. Companies will be given a 12-month transition period to implement age-verification systems and comply with the new regulations.

The rules will also restrict users under 15 from accessing key platform functions, including posting content, commenting, sharing material, interacting with other users, and participating in public groups, channels, or other large-scale online communities.

UAE media and telecommunications regulators have been granted authority to enforce the new policy. Platforms that fail to comply could face warnings, administrative penalties, partial service restrictions, or even a complete ban within the country.

The UAE joins a growing number of countries introducing tighter controls on children s access to social media. Australia implemented a landmark ban on social media use for children under 16 in late 2025, while Britain and Canada have also moved toward stricter regulations aimed at protecting young users online.

Officials say the measure reflects increasing global concern over the impact of social media on children s safety, privacy, and mental well-being.