Dh200,000 fine in UAE: Police warn against spreading fake news, rumours

(Editor's note: This article was originally published in 2023 but is being re-shared following a recent reminder from the authority to residents)

Ras Al Khaimah Police has issued a reminder about the consequences and penalties involved in spreading fake news and rumours in the UAE.

In a post online, the authority reminded residents about the definition of fake news, and the fine amount and jail time that can be given to anyone found committing the crime.

According to UAE law, the following acts are prohibited and could fetch the perpetrator Dh100,000 to Dh200,000 fine and imprisonment of one to two years. UAE residents are not allowed to:

- Announce, disseminate, re-disseminate, circulate, or recirculate false news or data, or false, tendentious, misleading or erroneous rumours or reports, or rumours or reports contrary to what has been announced officially

- Broadcast any provocative advertisements that could incite or provoke public opinion, disturb public peace, spread terror among people, or cause harm to the public interest, the national economy, the public order, or the public health

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