Dubai Police: Fines, jail for some social media posts

UAE - Certain types of social media posts can get you jailed in the UAE, the Dubai Police have reiterated. In a video posted on their social media pages, the police said some posts can become a criminal case, with penalties ranging from fines to imprisonment.

Residents have been urged to act responsibly whenever they post anything on social media.

>> Penalties

The following crimes are punishable with imprisonment and/or fines between Dh250,000 and Dh1 million:

- Offending any Islamic sanctities or rituals.

- Offending any of the sanctities or rituals prescribed in other religions.

- Insulting any of the recognised monotheistic religions.

- Encouraging, inciting or promoting sins.

Additionally, an individual can be jailed for seven years if the post is against God, His prophets, messengers or against Islam.

The police also listed out the types of posts that can get you into trouble:

>> Religious intolerance

The UAE has long established itself as a nation that embraces diversity. It offers a secure platform for people of different nationalities and faiths to thrive in. Religious intolerance and hatred have no place in the UAE. Insulting or mocking other people’s religions or any religious symbol is considered an offence and is punishable by law.

>> Privacy and rights

Those found violating or infringing on others’ rights and privacy may face a jail sentence as well as a fine. Some people are involved in such illegal practices because of their “misunderstanding of freedom of expression” or assumption that they can get away with anything in the virtual world.

>> Discrimination

The UAE has enacted laws that support the values of human justice in all forms. A law in the country criminalises every word or action that triggers strife or discrimination between individuals or groups.