The UAE Media Council has delivered a firm message to content creators, influencers, and digital media outlets: using artificial intelligence irresponsibly is now a serious offence. The authority clarified that generating or publishing AI-created visuals or videos that distort facts, harm reputations, or misuse national symbols can lead to legal action.
The warning reflects the UAE’s effort to keep its fast-growing digital space authentic and respectful of cultural values. With the popularity of generative AI tools rising among creators in Dubai, the Council believes the risks of misuse—particularly spreading false news or altering images of public figures—need strict oversight.
UAE Media Council: Using AI to depict national symbols without prior approval violates media content standards#InfographicWam https://t.co/GLdB3pTrvs pic.twitter.com/i74bfHINuK
— WAM English (@WAMNEWS_ENG) September 25, 2025
What Counts as AI Misuse
The Council outlined several acts that breach the country’s media laws:
- Using AI to depict the UAE flag, emblem, leaders, or other national symbols without prior authorisation
- Publishing altered images or videos of public figures that damage their dignity or reputation
- Sharing AI-generated misinformation, fake news, or deepfakes that mislead the public
- Posting content that fuels hate speech or undermines social harmony
These rules apply to individual users, influencers, and media agencies. Any AI-generated content that violates public order, offends UAE traditions, or spreads unverified claims risks investigation.
Legal and Ethical Backdrop
The move aligns with existing federal media regulations that require all published content to respect the nation’s identity, values, and cultural sensitivities. Officials have repeatedly stressed that the use of emerging technologies like AI should never compromise these principles.
In recent months, the UAE has advanced its ethical AI framework to ensure responsible innovation. Tighter control over digital media aims to protect public trust and uphold high standards of integrity in information sharing.
Connection to the UAE’s Integrity Framework
The warning supports the UAE’s National Strategy for Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism and Proliferation (2024–2027) by emphasizing transparency and accountability in the digital media sector, aligning with the strategy’s focus on financial crimes.
By drawing a link between content authenticity and national integrity, the UAE sends a clear signal: safeguarding truth and reputation in media is as crucial as combating other forms of misconduct.
Creators and Businesses in Dubai
The UAE’s latest advisory highlights that ignorance of the law will not be an excuse. Local businesses, agencies, and individual creators can take practical steps to stay compliant:
- Seek official approval before using national imagery, such as the UAE flag or likenesses of leaders, in AI-generated campaigns.
- Verify all AI-generated text, images, and videos for accuracy and respectfulness before publishing.
- Establish internal review processes to check content against local media regulations.
- Educate influencers and content partners about the new rules to avoid accidental violations.
- Monitor regulatory updates from the UAE Media Council to stay informed of any new guidelines.
Implementing these measures not only reduces legal risk but also strengthens credibility with local audiences who value authenticity and cultural sensitivity.
A Call for Responsible Innovation
The warning is not meant to discourage creativity but to ensure that innovation remains ethical. AI can be a powerful tool for storytelling, marketing, and engagement, but the UAE insists that it must be used responsibly.
Industry experts believe the new focus on compliance will push creators towards higher editorial standards, benefiting the overall media landscape in Dubai and across the Emirates.
The UAE Media Council’s stand against AI misuse underscores the country’s commitment to responsible digital transformation. Social media creators, businesses, and influencers now face a clear choice: respect local laws and cultural values when using AI, or risk fines and penalties.
By maintaining transparency and ethical practices, Dubai’s vibrant media community can continue to grow while preserving public trust.
Read More:
- Saudi Arabia Introduces Strict New Social Media Rules – Social Kandura
- Dubai School Fees to Become More Affordable as KHDA Unveils New Strategy – Social Kandura
For more hyperlocal updates on media regulations and everything shaping life in Dubai, follow Social Kandura for timely, reliable local news.
