Science, Discovery, Tech and Environment · 20 June 2026

United Arab Emirates (UAE) mandates minimum age of 15 for social media use

Exam-focused facts from the 20 June 2026 current affairs briefing.

Key facts

  • The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has established a minimum age of 15 for social media use, becoming the first Arab nation to implement such a regulation.
  • Children under the age of 15 are prohibited from creating, operating, or using personal social media accounts, including posting content and joining public groups.
  • Social media platforms are required to implement robust age-verification systems using Artificial Intelligence (AI) powered technologies and digital identity checks.
  • Teenagers aged 15 and 16 are permitted to use platforms only with safeguards such as content filters, screen-time management tools, and parental supervision features.
  • Social media companies have up to 12 months to comply with the new requirements, which include prohibiting the use of minors' personal data for targeted advertising.

View this story in the full daily briefing

Earlier coverage selected by topic similarity to help connect developments over time.

Malaysia Enforces Social Media Ban for Users Under 16

Malaysia has enforced rules barring children under 16 from owning social media accounts. The regulations apply to social media platforms with at least 8 million users, including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.