UAE Social Media Rules Could Reach Streaming and Gaming Platforms
The UAE’s new digital safety law may affect more than traditional social media networks. Experts say the rules could also impact streaming, gaming, and entertainment services. The new legislation blocks children under 15 from creating or using personal accounts. As a result, platforms must review how they provide access to younger users.
Broader Reach Than Expected
The law defines social media platforms in a broad way. It covers services that allow account creation, social interaction, content sharing, or algorithm-based recommendations.
Because of this definition, platforms such as streaming services, gaming networks, and music apps could face greater scrutiny. However, regulators are expected to focus first on traditional social media platforms. Legal experts note that even one qualifying feature could place a service within the law’s scope. Therefore, companies that rely on recommendation engines may need to assess their compliance requirements.
Age Verification Becomes a Key Challenge
The biggest hurdle for platforms will be age verification. The rules require companies to use accurate methods rather than relying on self-declared birth dates. Possible verification tools include digital identity systems, document checks, biometric matching, and AI-based age estimation. Consequently, some platforms may need to collect more user information than before. The law gives companies up to 12 months to comply. During that period, they must develop systems that prevent underage access while protecting user privacy.
The rules also introduce stricter protections for users aged 15 and 16. Platforms may need to limit private messaging, live streaming, and recommendation features for younger teenagers.
Parents remain responsible for supervising children’s online activity. Meanwhile, platforms must actively enforce the rules and prevent attempts to bypass restrictions. The regulation highlights the UAE’s growing focus on child digital safety. If regulators apply a broad interpretation, the impact could extend well beyond Instagram, TikTok, and other familiar social networks.
