Can I be charged with defamation in the UAE even if what I said is true?

In the UAE, the fact that a statement is true does not automatically protect you from a defamation or insult complaint. The cybercrime law, Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021 on Combating Rumours and Cybercrimes, and the Penal Code focus on protecting people's honour, reputation and privacy, so publicly exposing damaging information about someone, even if accurate, can still lead to a complaint, particularly where it harms their reputation or invades their privacy. This is different from systems where truth is a complete defence. Insults and the unauthorised disclosure of private facts can be offences regardless of accuracy, and how truth and intent are weighed depends on the specific charge and circumstances, which is for the Public Prosecution and the court to assess. Because of this, publicly accusing or shaming someone online in the UAE carries real legal risk even when you are convinced you are right. Before publishing accusations, or if you have received a complaint, you can compare verified UAE legal professionals on LEXAI to understand your position before acting.