Over 11,000 Bots Created in One Month: UAE Official Warns of Regional Tensions
Dubai, UAE: A senior UAE official has warned about the growing use of social media bots to spread misinformation and increase tensions between countries in the region. More than 11,000 new bots were reportedly created in October 2026 alone.
Abdulla bin Mohammed bin Butti Al Hamed, Chairman of the UAE's National Media Authority (NMA), shared the warning during the UAE Correspondents' Majlis in Dubai. He said authorities were closely monitoring fake news, misleading content and automated social media accounts.
Social Media Bots Used to Spread Misinformation
Social media bots are automated accounts that can publish or amplify messages on digital platforms. Coordinated networks of such accounts can make certain opinions appear more widespread than they actually are, potentially influencing public discussions and spreading misleading information.
Al Hamed did not identify the social media platforms involved or reveal who was responsible for creating the accounts.
UAE Working With Social Media Companies
According to the official, UAE authorities have been working behind the scenes with social media companies to identify and remove suspicious accounts and harmful online content.
In May 2026, the National Media Authority's Secretary-General, Dr Jamal Mohammed Al Kaabi, said that 10,000 accounts had been removed from TikTok. These accounts were reportedly involved in publishing AI-generated videos and other content intended to spread false narratives about the UAE.
Earlier, in April 2026, Al Hamed also disclosed that more than 100 social media accounts had been blocked in recent months for content that incited violence during Iranian attacks.
Why the UAE Does Not Respond to Every False Claim
Al Hamed explained that authorities do not necessarily respond publicly to every misleading report. Responding to fabricated claims can sometimes give them additional attention and make them appear more credible.
Instead, officials assess which issues require an official clarification while continuing to monitor online activity and work with media organisations to provide accurate information.
Legal Consequences for Spreading Fake News
The UAE has strict laws concerning the publication and circulation of false information. According to the report, Article 52 of Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021 provides for imprisonment and financial penalties for certain offences involving false news, rumours and misleading information. Penalties can be more severe during crises, emergencies or disasters.
Authorities have also highlighted that sharing or reposting unverified content can carry legal consequences.
Regional Efforts to Counter Disinformation
The UAE has called for greater regional cooperation to tackle online misinformation. During a GCC meeting in March 2026, Al Hamed proposed coordinated action against anonymous accounts and a round-the-clock regional monitoring centre equipped with artificial intelligence.
The UAE's latest warning highlights growing concerns about coordinated online activity and the need for accurate information, responsible social media use and cooperation between governments, media organisations and technology companies.
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