UAE Sets First Minimum Social Media Age of 15 for Arab Countries

On Thursday (June 18), the United Arab Emirates approved a resolution establishing the minimum age for social media usage at 15, as announced by the government’s media office. This makes it the first Arab nation to implement such a regulation.

The resolution forbids children under 15 from creating or using personal social media accounts and restricts their access to the platforms’ full features.

The UAE is joining a growing number of countries that are tightening regulations regarding children’s engagement with social media.
Australia has enforced one of the world’s strictest regulations, prohibiting children under 16 from holding accounts on major platforms like TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube. Companies are tasked with preventing underage access.

The UK is also contemplating limitations for individuals under 16. Prime Minister Keir Starmer has indicated that the government plans to focus on social media platforms along with gaming and livestreaming services that enable children to interact with strangers.

Malaysia and Indonesia have instituted age-based restrictions that require platforms to block registrations from children below 16. Indonesian officials have stated that these measures aim to shield children from cyberbullying, online scams, and harmful content.

Canada is evaluating legislation to enhance online protections for minors, while France has endorsed more stringent age-verification measures to keep younger users away from social media platforms.

Additionally, India has entered the conversation. Karnataka has unveiled plans to limit social media access for children under 16, citing worries about excessive mobile phone use and its effects on health and education. Andhra Pradesh has suggested restrictions for children younger than 13.

These initiatives represent a wider global effort to bolster protections for children while addressing rising concerns regarding the influence of social media on younger audiences.