A court in the United Arab Emirates has ordered a female social media influencer to pay Dh81,000 after finding her guilty of defamation for publishing a video targeting a well-known restaurant.
The ruling highlights the legal boundaries surrounding online criticism and reinforces that freedom of expression does not permit defamatory statements or attacks on personal reputation.
Restaurant Owner Took the Matter to Court
According to the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department, the influencer recorded and uploaded a video in which she questioned the integrity and business practices of the restaurant owner.
The restaurant owner later filed a case, arguing that the video had caused significant harm to both her personal reputation and business.
As a result, the court examined whether the content represented legitimate criticism or crossed the legal line into defamation.
Court Finds the Video Defamatory
During the proceedings, the influencer admitted that she had recorded and shared the video.
However, she maintained that the content was intended as criticism.
After reviewing the evidence, the court concluded that the video directly targeted individuals instead of providing fair comments about services or products.
The court also found that the video contained derogatory language rather than objective criticism.
Therefore, it ruled that the content amounted to defamation.
Court Imposes Dh81,000 Financial Penalty
Following its findings, the court ordered the influencer to pay a Dh30,000 fine.
In addition, the court instructed her to remove the disputed video from social media.
Authorities also ordered the confiscation of the mobile phone used to record the video.
Furthermore, the court directed the influencer to pay Dh51,000 in provisional civil damages to the restaurant owner.
As a result, the total financial penalty reached Dh81,000.
Court Clarifies Limits of Online Criticism
The court emphasized that consumers have the right to express opinions about products and services.
However, it also made clear that such opinions must not damage personal reputations or include defamatory allegations.
The ruling explained that criticism should remain focused on services or products rather than targeting individuals through offensive or defamatory remarks.
Consequently, the judgment reinforces the legal distinction between genuine consumer feedback and unlawful defamation.
UAE Law Provides Strict Penalties for Online Defamation
The case also draws attention to the UAE’s strict legal framework governing online conduct.
Under UAE law, defamation, insults, and the spread of false or misleading information through social media are punishable offences.
Depending on the nature of the offence, penalties may include imprisonment and substantial financial fines.
The UAE Cybercrime Law also provides for fines ranging from Dh250,000 to Dh500,000 in certain cases involving the spread of false information.
The latest ruling serves as a reminder that while social media offers a platform for public opinion, users remain legally responsible for the content they publish. Criticism is permitted under the law, but defamatory statements and attacks on personal character can result in significant legal and financial consequences.
