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Up to Dh200,000 fine, 1-year jail for hate speech in UAE

Abu Dhabi - The UAE will continue its crackdown on racism and discrimination, says Public Prosecution.

Published: Sat 19 Dec 2020, 5:13 PM

Updated: Sat 19 Dec 2020, 5:19 PM

  • By
  • Wam

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Photo: Alamy.com/ae

Photo: Alamy.com/ae

The UAE Public Prosecution has reminded residents about the penalties for possessing and distributing material that incites racial, religious and cultural hatred.

In a video shared on its social media accounts, the public prosecution detailed the provisions of Article 12 of Federal Decree-Law No 2 of 2015 on Combatting Discrimination and Hatred.


“Possession and distribution of documents, publications and recordings that provoke hatred" is punishable with a one-year jail term and a fine of between Dh50,000 and Dh200,000.

It added that acquiring or possessing documents, publications, recordings, movies, tapes, discs, software and smart applications that offend religions, incite discrimination or contain hate speech, with the intent to distribute or make accessible to the public, will also be punishable by law.

"The same punishment shall apply to any person who acquires or possesses any means of printing, recording, storage, sound or visual recording devices or other means of publication, broadcasting or promotional materials that are used, with knowledge, in the commission of any of the crimes set forth in the present Federal Decree," it said.

The Public Prosecution added that the UAE is keen to promote a culture of tolerance, and will continue its crackdown on racism and discrimination; including ethnic, religious and cultural discrimination.



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