Islamabad: The National Assembly was informed that 3,500 Pakistani nationals have been deported from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for violating the country’s strict social media laws during the Iran-US conflict.
The parliament was assured that the properties of the deported individuals are being legally transferred to their heirs.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs further stated that it will actively assist and facilitate any affected individuals facing difficulties regarding the recovery or transfer of their assets.
The United Arab Emirates maintains an exceptionally strict legal framework regarding public order, national security, and the digital conduct of its residents.
As a country where expatriates make up over 85% of the population, the UAE government views social media regulation not just as a matter of civil oversight, but as a critical pillar of national stability.
Under the comprehensive Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021 on Combatting Rumors and Cybercrimes, the boundaries of acceptable online behavior are tightly defined, and the penalties for crossing them are severe.
For foreign citizens, abiding by these laws is a strict condition of their residency.
The UAE strictly prohibits using social media platforms to spread rumors, publish misleading news, or voice opinions that could jeopardize state security or public order.
During times of regional geopolitical tension, such as international conflicts, the government clamps down heavily on online activism.
Foreigners are legally barred from taking political stances, organizing online protests, or publishing content that could harm the UAE’s diplomatic relations with other nations.
The legal consequences for foreign nationals violating these cyber laws extend far beyond monetary fines.
Under UAE cybercrime legislation, courts and immigration authorities possess the mandate to order the immediate deportation of any expatriate found guilty of compromising public peace or spreading divisive political rhetoric online.
Furthermore, individuals flagged by state security for digital infractions face permanent entry bans.
The UAE enforces these measures uniformly to send a clear message: maintaining social harmony and national security is non-negotiable, and foreign residents must strictly align their digital footprint with local laws.
