The United Arab Emirates has announced a ban on social media use for children under the age of 15, becoming the latest country to introduce age restrictions aimed at protecting young users online.

Under a new cabinet resolution, social media platforms will be required to identify and deactivate accounts belonging to users under 15 years old or face possible penalties, including restrictions or blocking. Companies have been granted a 12-month period to comply with the new regulations.

According to the resolution, 15 is now the minimum age for social media use in the UAE. Children below this age will not be permitted to create, manage, or use personal social media accounts.

The rules also prevent under-15s from accessing key platform features such as posting content, commenting, sharing, engaging in social interactions, joining public groups or channels, and participating in large-scale online communities.

The UAE joins a growing number of countries tightening social media regulations for minors. Australia introduced a landmark ban on social media access for children under 16 in December, while the United Kingdom recently unveiled similar measures.

Authorities overseeing media and telecommunications in the UAE have been empowered to take action against platforms that fail to comply with the new rules. Enforcement measures may include warnings, administrative penalties, and the partial or complete blocking of services.