Authorities in the UAE have arrested 10 individuals of different nationalities for allegedly sharing misleading videos online that falsely portrayed attacks and explosions across the country, according to a report by Khaleej Times.
UAE Attorney-General Dr Hamad Saif Al Shamsi ordered the arrests, and the suspects have been referred for an expedited trial.
Officials said the action followed ongoing monitoring of social media amid heightened regional tensions. Authorities accused the suspects of exploiting the situation to spread misinformation designed to mislead the public and undermine security and stability.
Investigators found that some of the videos shared online contained genuine footage showing air defence systems intercepting aerial threats. Other clips showed projectiles on the ground or crowds reacting to unfolding events. In addition, authorities said several videos were artificially generated using artificial intelligence (AI) to falsely depict explosions, fires, or strikes on prominent landmarks in the UAE.
According to investigators, some of the content also attempted to manipulate emotions by featuring children in videos suggesting imminent security threats. Other clips falsely claimed military facilities in the UAE had been destroyed or misrepresented incidents from other countries as having occurred inside the Emirates.
Authorities said the suspects include nationals from Egypt, the Philippines, Vietnam, Pakistan, Iran, Bangladesh, Cameroon and Nepal, along with two Indian citizens.
Officials warned that sharing such material — whether authentic or fabricated — could jeopardize public safety, create confusion, and provide hostile media outlets with misleading narratives that undermine trust in state institutions or reveal sensitive aspects of national defense.
The Public Prosecution has begun interrogating the suspects and ordered their detention pending further investigation.
The Attorney-General said the offences carry penalties of at least one year in prison and a minimum fine of Dh100,000 for deliberately spreading misinformation, causing public alarm and threatening social stability.
He added that authorities will take strict action against anyone who uses digital platforms or emerging technologies to circulate fabricated or misleading content that harms national security or disrupts public order. Officials said monitoring of online platforms will continue and legal action will be taken against those found responsible.
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