What do the UAE’s new child social media rules mean for children, parents, and schools?

The UAE’s new child social media framework aims to make the online environment safer for children by combining safeguards such as age verification, privacy protections, and parental controls with stronger digital literacy and responsible online behaviour. Experts say the rules encourage schools, parents, technology platforms, and regulators to work together to help children develop healthy digital habits, understand online risks such as cyberbullying and misinformation, and use technology responsibly while continuing to benefit from its educational and social advantages.