Children under the age of 15 will no longer be allowed to access social media platforms in the UAE under a new regulatory framework designed to strengthen online child protection.
The resolution, approved on June 18, prohibits children below 15 from creating or using personal social media accounts and blocks access to core platform functions such as posting content, commenting, sharing material and joining public groups.
Authorities said parental approval will not exempt children from the restrictions.
The new rules also introduce a separate framework for users aged 15 and 16, who will be permitted to access social media under enhanced safeguards.
Platforms will be required to apply measures including age-appropriate content controls, restrictions on higher-risk features, limits on usage time and parental supervision tools.
A major change under the framework is the introduction of mandatory age-verification systems.
Authorities said self-declared ages will no longer be considered sufficient. Social media companies must instead verify users' ages through approved methods, including AI-supported technologies, biometric tools or other systems authorised by the Child Digital Safety Council.
The UAE has given platforms up to 12 months to implement the requirements in coordination with relevant authorities.
Officials said the framework is intended to balance children's access to digital services with stronger online safety protections.
The move follows growing concerns over children's social media use. A 2024 survey found that children in the UAE spend about three hours a day on social media platforms.
Experts have linked excessive use to issues including anxiety, attention difficulties, academic challenges and, in some cases, speech delays.
The UAE joins countries including the UK, Australia and Malaysia in introducing stricter regulations governing children's access to social media platforms.