An SMS reminder from Dubai Police on March 6, 2026. EXPAT MEDIA

Residents across Dubai received an SMS reminder from Dubai Police on Friday (March 6), urging the public not to share sensitive photos, misleading videos or unverified information online. “Responsibility begins with compliance. Photographing or sharing security or critical sites, or reposting unreliable information may result in legal action and compromise national security and stability. Compliance helps keep the community safe and stable. Your security is our happiness,” the alert read. The message was sent to residents and visitors at around 10:35am. The reminder comes as authorities continue to stress the importance of responsible online behaviour amid regional developments that have attracted widespread attention on international media and social networks.

Warning against rumours and fake content

Earlier this week, Dubai Police warned that spreading rumours or sharing unverified videos can lead to criminal penalties. “Sharing rumors, false information, or any content that contradicts official announcements or that may cause public panic or threaten public safety, order, or health is prohibited. Violators may face criminal penalties, including imprisonment and fines of no less than Dh200,000,” Dubai Police said. The warning follows a drone-related incident near the US Consulate General Dubai on Tuesday night, where a limited fire broke out but no injuries were reported. Authorities also reiterated that photographing or filming in restricted locations such as military zones, palaces, courts, embassies and government buildings is a crime under UAE law. “It may seem like just a photo… But to some, it’s information,” Dubai Police said. “Do not photograph or share security or critical sites. Protecting them is a national responsibility that helps keep our community safe and secure.” Violators could face jail terms of one to three months or fines under UAE law.

AI-generated videos also under scrutiny

Meanwhile, the UAE Cybersecurity Council warned that artificial intelligence tools are making it easier to produce realistic but false videos. Authorities urged the public to verify content before sharing it. Separately, Dubai Airports warned that digitally manipulated videos claiming incidents at Dubai International Airport have been circulating online, stressing that the clips are false. Passengers and residents were urged not to repost such material. Despite videos circulating online, many residents say daily life in the UAE remains calm. One Dubai resident who requested anonymity said the police reminder was timely after seeing misleading posts on social media. “A colleague shared a post on his Facebook My Day about an incident on Tuesday, which could cause panic, so getting this reminder from Dubai Police today helps avoid irresponsible social media posts that could cause unnecessary alarm,” the resident told Expat Media. Another resident, C. Ramirez, an IT professional, said he recently reassured relatives overseas who were worried after seeing viral videos. “My parents were worried because they saw some videos online. They sent me a video of missiles over Burj Khalifa. I told them it’s a fake video. Here, people are going to work, malls are open, and life is normal,” he told Expat Media. Officials continue to advise residents to rely only on official sources for updates and to avoid sharing unverified content that could create unnecessary concern. PIA/ICA/Expat Media ALSO READ: Jail, Dh200,000 fine for spreading rumors 
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