UAE Highlights Child Digital Safety as Online Risks Continue to Rise

National forum underscores the importance of protecting children in an increasingly digital society

The UAE has reinforced its commitment to online safety with a strong focus on protecting children in digital environments. A recent national forum brought together government officials, cybersecurity leaders, legal experts, and technology stakeholders to address growing online risks faced by young users.

Discussions centered on how rapid digital adoption has expanded children’s exposure to online threats such as harmful content, unsafe interactions, and digital exploitation. Speakers emphasized that protecting children online now requires coordinated action across policy, technology, education, and awareness.

The forum highlighted the implementation of the new Child Digital Safety framework, which aims to establish clear responsibilities for platforms, institutions, and service providers. The framework focuses on prevention, accountability, and long-term digital wellbeing for younger users.

Cybersecurity leaders stressed that child digital safety extends beyond parental controls or platform policies. It requires secure digital infrastructure, responsible data handling, and proactive monitoring of online environments. As children increasingly access digital services through mobile devices and social platforms, risks continue to evolve.

Participants also discussed the role of education and awareness in reducing exposure to online harm. Teaching safe digital behavior at an early age helps children recognize threats and build healthy online habits. Institutions and organizations play a key role in reinforcing these practices.

The forum concluded with a call for sustained collaboration between government bodies, educators, technology providers, and families. Protecting children online remains a shared responsibility that must adapt as technology continues to advance.