ABU DHABI, Jan 19: The United Arab Emirates has implemented the UAE Child Safety Rule for Foreign Apps as of January 2026, introducing strict new regulations for international digital platforms operating in the country. The move, based on the Federal Decree-Law on Child Digital Safety (CDS Law), aims to protect children from harmful online content and give parents greater control over their children’s digital activity.

The regulation applies to all online services accessible to users in the UAE, including TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, Twitch, and other popular platforms. Companies without a physical presence in the UAE must also comply if they wish to continue serving UAE users.

Authorities cited the increasing use of mobile devices and apps by children for gaming, video streaming, social media, and online communication as a key reason for the new law. Studies and local reports indicate that minors frequently encounter inappropriate content and communication from unknown users, putting their privacy and safety at risk.

Under the CDS Law, platforms must obtain parental consent before processing personal data of children under 13, classify content by age, filter harmful material, limit targeted advertising, offer tools to manage screen time, and provide clear reporting mechanisms for unsafe or illegal content. Default privacy settings must prioritize child safety, and companies are required to update privacy policies to clearly inform parents about data usage.

Foreign platforms have one year from January 2026 to comply with the regulation. Noncompliance may result in penalties or bans, and the government will issue rules specifying fines and other consequences for violations.

The law is expected to enhance safety for children and give parents a stronger role in monitoring online activity. Experts say it will reduce exposure to harmful content, prevent accidental sharing of personal information, and minimize risks such as cyberbullying or access to adult content.

The UAE’s initiative places the country among the first in the region to enforce such comprehensive online child protection measures, aligning with global trends in digital safety. Officials said the regulation supports the government’s broader vision of creating a secure and healthy online environment for all users, with extra protections for minors, the most vulnerable group of digital users.

The CDS Law marks a major step forward in online safety, encouraging global platforms to integrate child welfare into the core of their design and operations, while giving UAE families stronger protections in the digital space.