A Dubai resident has been convicted of defamation and online insult after sending a series of offensive messages over WhatsApp during a workplace dispute. The court’s ruling, which includes a temporary internet ban and the confiscation of the offender’s mobile phone, highlights the UAE’s strict stance on digital conduct—even in private conversations.

The case, registered under No. 23499/2024, was filed by a corporate professional who received defamatory messages in October 2023 while both individuals were at a corporate office in Al Safouh 2, Dubai. The messages were described as personally degrading and harmful to the complainant’s reputation.

During the investigation, authorities reviewed translated message transcripts, witness statements, and initial testimonies. The defendant admitted to sending the messages but claimed they were a reaction to previous accusations made during the same conversation. However, the court dismissed this argument, stating that retaliation does not excuse defamation under UAE law.

On April 24, 2025, the Dubai court handed down its verdict: a one-month ban from all digital platforms, a fine of Dh5,000, deletion of the offensive content, and permanent seizure of the mobile device used. The ruling was officially enforced on May 1, 2025, with a travel ban in place during the proceedings.

Legal adviser Vishal Tinani, who commented on the case, emphasized that digital platforms are not lawless zones. “Under UAE law, even private messages can lead to criminal charges if the content is morally offensive or personally insulting,” he stated. The verdict also included a ban on using or activating any new SIM cards to access the internet during the penalty period.

This case serves as a clear reminder that communication over digital platforms, including private apps like WhatsApp, is subject to the same legal and moral standards as public statements. As online messaging continues to play a vital role in professional and personal settings, users must remain aware of the legal boundaries.