UAE strengthens child online safety with new social media age rules and focus on digital citizenship

Government

UAE strengthens child online safety with new social media age rules and focus on digital citizenship

The UAE has taken a significant step toward enhancing child online safety by introducing regulations that set the minimum age for personal social media accounts at 15, while placing Digital Citizenship Education at the centre of efforts to protect children in an increasingly connected world.

The move establishes a clearer framework for children's use of social media platforms, reinforcing the responsibilities of digital platforms, parents, and educators in creating a safer online environment. It also reflects the country's broader strategy to address challenges such as privacy protection, personal data security, exposure to inappropriate content, misinformation, and unsafe online interactions.

Education experts say the initiative combines regulatory measures with awareness-building, positioning Digital Citizenship Education as a key component in preparing children to navigate digital spaces responsibly.

Commenting on the development, Dr. Fatin Sleem, educational consultant and expert, said the new regulations represent an important milestone in strengthening digital safety for young users.

"Regulating children's access to social media platforms represents a leading step in strengthening digital safety. It provides a clear framework for prevention and responsibility while creating an important opportunity to advance Digital Citizenship Education as an educational pathway that helps children and adolescents use technology safely and responsibly," she said.

According to Dr. Sleem, digital citizenship extends beyond teaching children how to use technology. It also equips them with the knowledge, values, and practical skills needed to protect their privacy, verify information, identify trustworthy online interactions, and understand the impact of their digital behaviour on themselves and others.

The educational approach promotes competencies including digital safety, cybersecurity awareness, media and information literacy, ethical online behaviour, responsible communication, and positive participation in digital communities.

The UAE's latest decision also supports the development of children's ability to regulate their own online behaviour and make informed decisions when engaging with digital platforms, online content, and virtual relationships.

Dr. Sleem emphasised that Digital Citizenship Education should begin at an early age and be introduced in age-appropriate ways to help children understand online privacy, evaluate information critically, manage screen time responsibly, and respond appropriately to social pressures encountered online.

She noted that schools play a vital role in embedding digital citizenship into everyday learning rather than treating it as a standalone subject. The concepts can be integrated across language studies, science, civic education, research projects, classroom discussions, and the responsible use of digital resources.

"Digital citizenship is a shared educational responsibility. When students verify information during research, respect differing opinions in classroom discussions, or protect personal data during digital activities, they are actively practising digital citizenship," Dr. Sleem explained.

She also highlighted the important role families play by maintaining ongoing conversations with children about screen time, online privacy, digital relationships, responsible content sharing, and knowing when to seek help if they encounter unsafe situations online.

International child safety frameworks identify several categories of digital risks facing young users, including content risks, contact risks, conduct risks, commercial exploitation, as well as challenges relating to privacy, emerging technologies, health, and overall well-being. Experts say addressing these risks requires coordinated efforts involving schools, families, regulators, and technology platforms.

Dr. Sleem concluded that the UAE's latest policy demonstrates a comprehensive approach to child protection by combining regulation with education, helping children develop the knowledge and confidence needed to participate in the digital world safely, responsibly, and respectfully.