From restrictions on financial institutions using WhatsApp to gather information to the legal risks tied to messages and group admins, here are five key things to know.
WhatsApp, one of the most widely used instant messaging platforms, has become a key communication tool for residents in the UAE.
However, a number of developments — ranging from restrictions on banking use to legal considerations and new features — are important for users to understand.
Here are five updates that everyone needs to be aware of:
1. Central Bank bans WhatsApp for banking
The Central Bank of the UAE has prohibited all financial institutions from using WhatsApp and other instant messaging platforms for customer services starting May 1.
The Central Bank of the UAE has barred all financial institutions from using WhatsApp and similar platforms for customer services from May 1.
The directive, issued on April 17, covers the sharing of customer data, transaction confirmations, OTPs, and financial documents. Banks, exchange houses, insurers, and payment providers are all required to comply.
The Central Bank cited increasing risks of fraud, impersonation, and data residency breaches, noting that customer data shared via WhatsApp could be stored خارج the UAE.
Existing services conducted عبر messaging apps must be discontinued immediately and replaced with approved channels such as mobile banking apps, call centres, or branch services. Institutions were required to confirm compliance by April 30, with penalties for non-compliance.
Takeaway: Never share banking details or request services عبر WhatsApp.
2. Private chats are not exempt from cybercrime law
Legal experts warn that private WhatsApp chats and groups are fully subject to the UAE’s cybercrime laws. Many users unknowingly violate these laws by forwarding unverified content, sharing images without consent, or tagging individuals in ways that harm their reputation.
Penalties can include fines ranging from Dh250,000 to Dh500,000 or imprisonment. In March 2026, 35 individuals were arrested for circulating misleading digital content. Under Article 52 of the Cybercrime Law, forwarding a message is treated as “re-publication,” even if the sender did not create it.
Takeaway: Think before you forward—private groups do not shield you from liability.
3. Admins can be liable for group content
While WhatsApp group admins are not required to monitor every message, they may be held accountable if they knowingly allow illegal content to remain. Under Article 53 of the Cybercrime Law, failure to act after becoming aware of unlawful material can lead to liability.
Lawyers advise admins to delete such content promptly, warn or remove offending members, and avoid engaging with questionable material. If problematic content persists, leaving the group may be the safest option.
Takeaway: If you manage a group, act quickly when inappropriate content appears—or risk sharing responsibility.
4. WhatsApp messages can be used as court evidence
Dubai Court of Cassation has ruled that WhatsApp messages can be admitted as evidence in legal cases, provided they are properly verified for authenticity.
The court overturned a previous ruling that failed to adequately assess such evidence in a personal status case. Given that messages can be edited or taken out of context, forensic validation is now essential.
Legal experts say this underscores that digital conversations can carry legal consequences, especially when tied to rights, obligations, or disputes.
Takeaway: Messages sent on WhatsApp can end up in court—choose your words carefully.
