Think Before You Post: Why Negative Online Reviews in the UAE Can Land You in Court

In much of the world, writing a harsh online review is seen as harmless self-expression. In the UAE, however, the stakes are far higher. A negative Google or Facebook review could be interpreted as defamation, with penalties ranging from hefty fines to prison sentences.

A Legal Landscape Built on Reputation

The UAE takes reputation and online behavior seriously. Under Article 425 of the Penal Code, public insults or defamatory remarks can result in up to two years’ imprisonment or AED 20,000 fines. The Cybercrime Law goes further, punishing the spread of “false information” online with minimum one-year imprisonment and six-figure fines.

When Reviews Turn Into Criminal Cases

These aren’t just theoretical risks. A Northern Irish resident was detained in Dubai after posting a negative Google review about his former employer. In another case, a woman was fined AED 30,000 for defamatory social media comments. Even when posts are deleted, the law allows for prosecution if reputational harm has already occurred.

Balancing Honesty and Legality

Does this mean reviews are unsafe? Not at all. Truthful, factual reviews written in respectful language are generally not considered criminal. What crosses the line is the use of offensive, defamatory, or misleading remarks.

Navigating Safely in the Digital Age

For residents and visitors, the message is clear:

• Post only what you can prove as fact.
  
  

• Avoid heated or derogatory language.
  
  

• Remember that online posts are public records, even after deletion.
  
  

The Final Word

The UAE’s strict stance underscores a broader principle: in a society that values dignity and reputation, words carry legal weight. Online reviews remain an important tool for consumer feedback—but in the UAE, they must be wielded with care.