With the growing use of social media, WhatsApp messages, blogs, and public forums, individuals and businesses need to understand their rights and obligations under UAE law when dealing with harmful or false statements made against them.
02 July, 2025
Defamation in the UAE: Can You Sue Someone for Spreading False Information?
In the UAE, defamation – whether spoken, written, or digital – is treated as a serious offense, with criminal and civil repercussions. With the growing use of social media, WhatsApp messages, blogs, and public forums, individuals and businesses need to understand their rights and obligations under UAE law when dealing with harmful or false statements made against them.
This article provides a clear understanding of what constitutes defamation in the UAE, what legal remedies are available, and the process of initiating action – based solely on current UAE laws and government-issued regulations.
What Does UAE Law Say About Defamation?
Defamation in the UAE is governed under Federal Decree-Law No. 31 of 2021 (UAE Penal Code) and Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021 on Combatting Rumours and Cybercrimes. These laws criminalize statements that harm another person’s honour, reputation, or social standing, whether made verbally, in writing, or online.
Under the Penal Code:
Article 425: Punishes anyone who attributes an incident to another person that could expose them to punishment or public contempt. This includes libel made through media, print, or public forums.
Article 426: Covers slander (spoken defamation) and imposes penalties of up to one year of imprisonment or AED 20,000 fine. If the defamation is made against a public servant in the course of duty, the penalty increases.
These articles ensure that verbal or written harm to another’s reputation – especially when made in public or through official communication channels – can lead to criminal proceedings.
Cyber Defamation and Digital Evidence
With the rise of social media and online platforms, defamation is no longer limited to traditional media. Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021 on Combatting Rumours and Cybercrimes addresses the misuse of digital platforms.
Article 43 of the law penalizes any individual who insults or accuses another via online means – such as Instagram, Facebook, X, WhatsApp, or email.
Punishment includes imprisonment and/or fines up to AED 500,000, and in severe cases, deportation (especially for expatriates).
This includes spreading fake news, tagging someone in defamatory content, or sharing harmful posts.
For example, if a business posts misleading or harmful comments about a competitor on social media, it could face both criminal liability under the cybercrime law and civil liability for reputational damage.
Can You Sue for Defamation in the UAE?
Yes. Under UAE law, individuals and entities have the right to initiate both criminal and civil proceedings against anyone who spreads false, damaging information about them.
Civil action may involve:
Filing a compensation claim under Federal Law No. 5 of 1985 (UAE Civil Transactions Law).
Claiming monetary damages for mental, reputational, and business losses due to defamatory content.
Supporting the claim with evidence, such as social media screenshots, emails, or recorded conversations.
Criminal action involves:
Filing a complaint with Dubai Police, Abu Dhabi Judicial Department, or other emirate-level authorities.
Prosecutors will determine whether to pursue charges under the relevant penal provisions.
The accused may face jail time, fines, or deportation based on the severity and public exposure of the defamatory act.
Important Considerations Before Filing a Case
While UAE law strongly protects individuals from reputational harm, there are some key considerations:
Truth is not always a defense: Unlike in some Western jurisdictions, even if the defamatory statement is factually accurate, it may still be punishable if it was made with the intention to insult or offend.
Intent and malice matter: Courts consider whether the statement was made to defame or was part of a public interest conversation.
Public exposure: The more public the platform (e.g., social media), the higher the penalties tend to be.
How to File a Defamation Complaint
Here is a simplified procedure to take legal action if you are defamed in the UAE:
Gather evidence: Collect screenshots, voice recordings, witness testimony, or any publication that proves the defamatory content.
Police Report: Submit a complaint to the Dubai Police or other emirate-level authority (online or in person).
Public Prosecution Review: The complaint will be assessed for legal validity. If approved, charges may be filed.
Optional Civil Case: You may separately file a claim for financial compensation in the Court of First Instance.
Examples of Defamation in UAE Context
A WhatsApp voice note falsely accusing a co-worker of theft sent in a group chat.
A tweet alleging a company is involved in fraud without proof.
A blog post or article misrepresenting facts to damage a public figure’s credibility.
Tagging someone in offensive or misleading content.
Each of these examples can attract fines, jail time, or both under UAE laws – especially when the accused cannot substantiate the claim.
Conclusion
The UAE’s approach to defamation reflects the country's commitment to upholding honour, dignity, and social stability. Individuals and businesses can and should pursue legal remedies if they are targeted by false statements. With well-defined provisions under the Penal Code and Cybercrime Law, the UAE offers both criminal and civil pathways to restore one’s reputation. However, the complainant must act diligently – by collecting solid evidence and pursuing action through proper channels. As always, legal advice is recommended to assess the strength of your case.