Parents Now Legally Responsible for Children’s Online Safety in the UA

Parents and guardians in the United Arab Emirates are now legally required to supervise their children’s online activity under the country’s Child Digital Safety Law, which introduces broad obligations for families and digital platforms alike.
The legislation applies to global platforms used by children in the UAE, even if those companies have no physical presence in the country. Social media networks, gaming services, applications and websites must implement age-verification systems, content filtering, parental control tools, and strict limits on advertising directed at minors. Children under 18 are prohibited from accessing online gambling and betting platforms, with digital providers and internet service companies required to block access.
The law comes as usage data highlights a growing gap between children’s screen time and parental oversight. According to the UAE Cybersecurity Council, 72% of children aged eight to 12 use smartphones daily, while only 43% of parents regularly monitor their activity.