Is online defamation a crime in the UAE?

Yes. In the UAE, defamation committed online is a criminal offence, governed primarily by Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021 on Combating Rumours and Cybercrimes, alongside the Penal Code. Unlike many Western systems where defamation is mainly a civil matter, the UAE treats slander and insult published through an electronic means, such as social media, WhatsApp or email, as a crime that the police and Public Prosecution can pursue. The law covers accusing someone of something that harms their honour or reputation, as well as insults that offend their dignity, when shared via an IT network or platform. Penalties are set by the law and the court and can include fines and, in some cases, imprisonment, with deportation possible for non-citizens. Because the exact penalty depends on the facts and the specific article applied, you should confirm it with the Public Prosecution or a UAE lawyer. If you are a victim, you can file a complaint with the police, and you can compare verified UAE legal professionals on LEXAI for your situation.