UAE Cybercrime Crackdown Escalates Following Iran War in the Gulf - By Radha Stirling, Expert Witness, Crisis Manager and Founder of Detained in Dubai.  29 March 2026

The arrests come amid a wider crackdown in the United Arab Emirates on the sharing of images or videos related to the recent drone and missile attacks targeting the country. The crackdown can be confusing for residents who can already see photos and videos of the attacks widely published across mainstream and social media. Authorities have warned that circulating such content could lead to prosecution under the country’s cybercrime laws.

Detained in Dubai has announced that 21 people have been charged together under the UAE's cybercrime laws.  Its CEO warns even sharing or commenting on circulating videos or news could lead to jail, fines and deportation.

Detained in Dubai urges governments to intervene so foreign nationals can leave the region with their families