Abu Dhabi: Authorities in the United Arab Emirates have arrested around 45 people for filming and sharing videos related to the ongoing attacks linked to the Iran–Israel conflict. Police in Abu Dhabi said the arrests were made after individuals posted videos of the attacks on social media platforms, allegedly spreading unverified information and causing public panic.
According to officials, the detained individuals recorded visuals of missile and drone attacks and circulated them online. Authorities stated that sharing such videos during a sensitive security situation could provoke public opinion, create confusion and spread rumours within the community.
Police clarified that the action is not a blanket ban on journalism or recording videos. Instead, it is aimed at preventing the spread of sensitive or unverified information during an ongoing security crisis.
Earlier this month, UAE Attorney General Dr. Hamad Saif Al Shamsi had issued a public warning urging residents not to photograph or publish images and videos of attack sites. He cautioned that sharing such material could cause fear among the public and create a misleading perception about the actual situation in the country.
Meanwhile, authorities also confirmed the arrest of a British tourist in Dubai under UAE law. The UK Foreign Office has acknowledged the arrest and said its officials are in contact with local authorities to monitor the situation and provide assistance if required.
Officials said strict legal action will be taken against anyone violating the country’s cybercrime laws. Under UAE regulations, publishing or republishing false news, misleading reports or rumours that contradict official announcements can lead to severe punishment.
Those found guilty may face at least one year in prison along with a minimum fine of AED 100,000. In more serious cases—especially those that incite public fear, threaten national security or provoke public sentiment against authorities—the punishment may extend to two years of imprisonment and a minimum fine of AED 200,000.
Authorities say such measures are necessary to protect the country’s stability, particularly during regional tensions. According to the UAE Ministry of Economy, sectors such as tourism, aviation, logistics, finance and real estate contribute significantly to the country’s non-oil economy.
Any perception of instability or security threats could directly affect international investment and tourism in major cities such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi, which host numerous multinational companies and global investors.
