Posting a negative review is not illegal, Consumers have the right to share genuine experiences, provided their comments remain factual, objective, and focused on the product or service. Legal experts say the protection ends when a review shifts from criticism to personal attacks against an individual.
Lawyers explain that constructive feedback based on real experiences is generally acceptable under UAE law. Problems arise when reviewers make false allegations, use insulting language, or question someone's integrity without evidence. Such comments may qualify as defamation and trigger legal action.
The legal distinction gained attention after an Abu Dhabi court penalised a social media influencer over a video targeting a well-known restaurant. Reportedly, the video contained defamatory attacks on the character of the restaurant owner rather than the quality of the business or service it provides.
The court imposed a criminal fine of Dh 30,000, ordered the video to be removed, and confiscated the phone used to upload it. He was also directed to pay Dh 51,000 in civil compensation, bringing the total financial penalty to Dh 81,000.
According to UAE lawyers, “The purpose and wording of a review determine whether it remains lawful. Statements such as the service was slow or the food quality disappointed me generally fall within legitimate consumer opinion.”
Cybercrime in the UAE makes it possible for authorities to prosecute people who post defamatory content on the internet. The punishment depends on the type of crime committed, and includes jail time, fines, confiscation of equipment used in publishing the material, and compensation for damage caused. Digital defamation is punishable by fines ranging between Dh250,000 and Dh500,000 in addition to jail time.
Legal experts advise consumers and influencers to verify facts, avoid emotional or abusive language, and ensure every claim can be supported with evidence. Sharing honest experiences is permitted, but personal attacks can quickly transform a review into a legal dispute.
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