UAE introduces comprehensive child digital safety framework

The United Arab Emirates has taken a significant step toward strengthening the protection of children online with its Federal Decree Law No. 26 of 2025 on Child Digital Safety. 

In force since 1 Jan. 2026, the law forms part of the UAE's broader policy agenda to strengthen child protection and responsible digital governance. The CDS Law establishes a dedicated legal framework for children's online safety and places obligations on digital platforms, internet service providers and, to a more limited extent, parents and guardians. 

While many of the detailed requirements will be clarified in forthcoming implementing regulations and Cabinet of the UAE resolutions, organizations offering digital services in or accessible from the UAE should begin assessing and enhancing their compliance frameworks. Organizations have a one-year period to align their systems and practices before the law becomes fully enforceable 1 Jan. 2027, which is subject to extension by a Cabinet resolution.

A broad framework governing children's online safety 

The CDS Law — which defines a child as any individual under age 18 — adopts an expansive approach to regulating children's online experiences, going beyond harmful content to address privacy, age verification, digital exploitation and platform governance. Notably, it signals a shift toward a "safety-by-design" model, requiring organizations to build child protection measures into digital products and services.