Dubai: AED 20,000 Fine for Negative Online Reviews
In today’s digital age, consumers have unprecedented power to share their experiences online, often through platforms like Google and social media, to express their satisfaction or dissatisfaction with products and services. However, in the United Arab Emirates, a negative review can lead to serious legal repercussions, making it essential for consumers to understand the difference between constructive criticism and defamatory comments.
Imagine receiving a legal notice or a call from local authorities in the UAE after posting what seems like an innocuous review on social media. Unfortunately, this scenario is becoming increasingly common as businesses in the UAE are vigilant about protecting their reputation. Lawsuits for negative reviews on social media are on the rise, highlighting the need for caution when sharing feedback.
Legal Precedents
A striking example occurred in May 2020 when a woman was convicted for posting defamatory remarks about a medical center on social media. Despite her claims of “the worst service imaginable,” the court fined her AED 5,000, confiscated her phone, and closed her social media accounts, ruling that her statements constituted defamation. Similarly, a woman in Dubai was penalized for tarnishing the reputation of a hospital via an Instagram post calling it “the worst hospital.”
Defining the Boundaries
The question arises: can businesses legally pursue individuals for sharing negative reviews? This largely depends on the content of the review posted on social media. If it contains insults, exaggerations, or misleading statements, it may fall under the penal code and cybercrime law. Under Federal Law No. 34 of 2021, defamatory online statements can lead to criminal charges, and businesses can take both criminal and civil actions to restore their reputation.
However, constructive criticism generally does not constitute defamation.
As a consumer, you have the right to share dissatisfaction as long as it is based on honest experiences and aims to provide constructive feedback for other consumers. In contrast, defamatory comments that include false statements can lead to significant legal consequences for the poster.
The Impact of Reviews
For businesses, online reviews are a double-edged sword.
On one hand, positive reviews are invaluable as they attract new customers and enhance the company’s credibility. On the other hand, negative reviews can have severe repercussions on the company’s reputation and operations.
In the digital age, consumers heavily rely on online reviews, particularly on Google, to guide their purchasing decisions. Thus, a negative review on social media can have disastrous consequences for an establishment.
However, it is important to view negative reviews on social media as opportunities for growth and improvement. They provide valuable feedback that can help the business identify weaknesses and enhance its services.
Legal Implications
The legal framework in the UAE is strict regarding defamation. Individuals can face imprisonment for up to two years or a fine of up to AED 20,000 for publicly defaming someone, with more severe penalties if the defamation occurs via social media.
UAE cybercrime laws prohibit the spread of false information and impose strict penalties, especially during times of crisis and pandemic. Offenders risk imprisonment and fines ranging from AED 100,000 to AED 500,000, or up to 2 years in prison, for online insults or false accusations.
Consumer Rights and Protection
Consumers dissatisfied with a service or product have rights under Federal Law No. 15 of 2020 on Consumer Protection. This law allows consumers to seek fair treatment and compensation for damages caused by inferior products or services. It emphasizes pursuing legal channels rather than seeking revenge through online reviews on social media, offering a more effective way to resolve grievances.
In conclusion, while online reviews are a powerful tool for consumers, it is crucial to use them responsibly and understand the potential legal implications. In the UAE, authorities are particularly vigilant on this matter. Understanding these implications is crucial to avoid finding yourself in delicate situations that could lead to criminal charges for violations. For more information, contact local authorities: support@merritt.group.
