The UAE treats many online acts as offences under its cybercrime legislation, currently Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021 on Combatting Rumours and Cybercrimes, together with the Penal Code and other laws. Online conduct that seems minor can carry serious consequences, and victims need to act carefully to preserve evidence.
These guides are educational. They explain common categories and what information is usually relevant. Criminal proceedings involve regulated representation, and a licensed advocate may need to be engaged where required.
Where to start
If you have been targeted, read reporting cybercrime in the UAE and digital evidence. If you are worried about your own conduct online, start with cybercrime legal consultation.
Related services
See cybercrime matters and white-collar crime.
All Cybercrime & Digital Matters guides
Cybercrime in the UAE: A Legal Information Guide
An educational overview of cybercrime law in the UAE: common offence categories, why online conduct can carry serious consequences, and when to seek guidance.
Read guideOnline Fraud and Scams in the UAE: What Victims Should Know
Common online fraud types in the UAE, how victims can respond, evidence to preserve and how bank and authority reporting typically fits together.
Read guidePhishing and Account Takeover Fraud in the UAE
What to do after phishing, SMS or call fraud and account takeover in the UAE: securing accounts, informing banks, preserving evidence and legal considerations.
Read guideOnline Defamation in the UAE: Legal Information
How online defamation and insults are treated in the UAE: why posts can create legal risk, evidence for victims, and cautious steps for those accused.
Read guideDigital Evidence in UAE Legal Matters: Preserving and Presenting It
How to preserve and present digital evidence in UAE legal matters: screenshots, messages, emails, metadata, chain of custody and common mistakes.
Read guideUnauthorised Access to Systems and Accounts in the UAE
What unauthorised access to systems, accounts and data can mean under UAE cybercrime law, common scenarios and why intent and context matter.
Read guideOnline Harassment and Threats in the UAE: Legal Information
How online harassment, threats and unwanted contact may be treated in the UAE, steps to document it and options for people affected.
Read guideIdentity Theft and Impersonation in the UAE: Legal Information
What to do if your identity is misused in the UAE: securing accounts, informing banks and platforms, evidence, reporting and legal considerations.
Read guideReporting Cybercrime in the UAE: What to Prepare
How to prepare a cybercrime report in the UAE: official channels, information police usually need, evidence, follow-up and when to seek guidance.
Read guideFrequently asked questions
Should I delete anything if I am worried about an online post?
Do not delete or alter material without understanding the consequences, because deletion can complicate matters. Seek guidance on your specific situation first.
General information only. Please read our Legal Disclaimer.