UAE bans AI-Generated images of national public figures and symbols.
The UAE Media Council has clarified that creating or sharing AI-generated images of national leaders, public figures, or state symbols without prior authorization is illegal and falls under media violations.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Council stressed that artificial intelligence or similar tools must not be used to distort facts, spread misinformation, incite hate, or damage reputations.
Any such misuse would be subject to fines and administrative penalties under the country’s Media Violations Regulation.
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The authority urged content creators, social media users, and media organisations to adhere strictly to established regulations, maintain professional integrity, and respect ethical standards.
The reminder follows recent controversy sparked by a social media post showing an AI-generated image of a user posing with the UAE’s founding father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
The post received backlash, with many calling the act “inappropriate” and “disrespectful”.
The UAE has long upheld strict media laws to safeguard its cultural values, prevent the spread of false information, and promote tolerance. Article 1(17) of the Federal Decree on Media Regulation requires media platforms to respect the country’s heritage, national identity, and official symbols.
Likewise, the UAE Charter for Responsible and Ethical Use of AI, issued in June 2024, emphasises responsible use of emerging technologies.
AI in media monitoring
Earlier this year, the UAE Media Council signed an agreement with Presight, a global AI-powered big data firm, to deploy a new regulatory platform.
The system is designed to scan, assess, and validate media content, ensuring compliance with UAE laws and values. It will integrate data from various agencies and licensing bodies, offering real-time tools for filtering, searching, and analysing content ethically and efficiently.
