DUBAI (Kashmir English): Dubai Police has warned that spreading rumours, sharing false information or circulating content that contradicts official announcements constitutes a criminal offence punishable by imprisonment and heavy fines.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the authorities urged residents and social media users to rely solely on information disseminated through official Government of Dubai channels and to refrain from sharing unverified images or reports.
The state law states people spreading rumours and unverified information online could face minimum of one year in jail besides fines starting from AED 100,000.
If rumours are spread during pandemics, emergencies, or crises (such as the current regional situation), penalties increase to a minimum of two years in jail and fine at least AED 200,000.
Authorities emphasised that users are legally accountable for reposting or forwarding unverified content, even if they did not create the original post.
This includes sharing content that contradicts official government announcements, incites public panic, fear, or threatens public safety and health, and the content that ridicules or harms the reputation of the state or its institutions.
Rely only on Government of Dubai channels
Residents are strictly urged to rely only on official government channels and accredited state news agencies for verified updates.
