Legal experts clarify the difference between official disclosures in serious cases and unlawful online exposure by individuals, which can result in prison sentences and fines of up to Dh500,000.
Authorities in the UAE have increasingly disclosed details of suspects and offenders in certain high-profile cases, ranging from terrorism-related investigations to offences considered harmful to public order, while residents themselves may face prison sentences and heavy fines for publicly exposing or accusing others online. Abu Dhabi legal experts told Khaleej Times that the key distinction lies in who is legally authorised to make such disclosures.
Recent examples include the UAE’s announcement of arrests linked to an Iran-backed terrorist cell, as well as a case in which an Emirati man was sentenced to three years in prison and fined Dh500,000 for promoting underage marriage online.
According to Hesham Elrafei, a solicitor and UAE legal expert, the Attorney General has the legal authority to determine how and when information about crimes is disclosed to the public. He noted that the law empowers the Attorney General to decide the timing and manner of sharing such information, citing Article 7 of the Criminal Procedure Law.
He added that for certain offences, such as impersonating a public official, courts may order the offender’s name and judgment to be published in the media at the offender’s expense, under Article 301 of the UAE Crimes and Penalties Law.
By contrast, individuals who expose others online without legal authority may themselves be committing a criminal offence under UAE law.
Elrafei said that official announcements are issued by the Attorney General in the interest of transparency and public awareness, adding: “Citizens cannot do this.”
An Abu Dhabi Judicial Department legal advisor, who chose to remain unnamed, said only judicial authorities are permitted to authorise the public disclosure of identities or case details. He noted that any government entity requires such authorisation before making disclosures, and warned that publishing a person’s information, photos, or details without legal basis may constitute a criminal offence.
He added that UAE law places strong emphasis on protecting privacy, reputation, and personal safety, stating that unlawful exposure of individuals can amount to defamation or privacy violations.
What if the information is true?
Under the UAE Cybercrime Law, individuals may face prison terms and fines ranging from Dh250,000 to Dh500,000 for online insult or slander. Sharing photos, comments, or personal information that violate another person’s privacy can also lead to prison sentences of at least six months and fines of up to Dh500,000—even if the information is true.
Elrafei noted that liability can extend to those who repost or forward such content, as the law covers anyone who “publishes or republishes” illegal material.
The ADJD advisor said a common misconception is that UAE laws operate like those in other countries, stressing that regulations around photography, social media use, and privacy are strictly enforced.
According to both experts, authorities typically disclose offender details only in major cases involving public interest, deterrence, national security, or public order.
Past instances
The UAE has previously released identities of offenders in exceptional cases, particularly during Covid-19, when the Public Prosecution published details of individuals who violated precautionary measures such as curfew rules, gatherings, travel restrictions, and mask mandates. In one 2020 case, 13 violators were named after being fined between Dh2,000 and Dh10,000.
Dubai Police also warned during the pandemic that individuals who mocked or violated public safety campaigns online could also be publicly identified alongside legal penalties.
Elrafei said such disclosures are used when they serve public interest, particularly to deter offences and protect public safety.
Broader deterrence strategy
Legal experts say the UAE has moved toward greater transparency in enforcement-related communications, but within a regulated legal framework.
Ibtissem Lassoud, head of white collar crime at Al Tamimi & Company, described this approach as part of a structured deterrence and compliance strategy rather than broad public exposure.
She cited recent regulatory actions involving social media users and influencers as part of strengthened oversight under the UAE’s media and cyber laws.
The ADJD advisor added that the purpose of the law is not only punishment but also prevention, ensuring public order and stability.
Protecting vulnerable groups
Experts also highlighted legal safeguards protecting juveniles, victims of sexual crimes, and individuals granted suspended sentences, whose identities cannot be publicly disclosed.
They urged residents to report incidents directly to authorities instead of posting them online, noting that sharing evidence with police is lawful, while public exposure may not be.
“If you witness wrongdoing, the correct step is to report it to the police or Public Prosecution,” Elrafei said.
