UAE Blocks 160K Sites for Youth Safety

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, affirmed the closure of 160,000 illicit websites and social media profiles aimed at safeguarding young individuals. In a recent cabinet session, Sheikh Mohammed highlighted the Digital Wellbeing Council's collaboration with social media entities in combatting unlawful online content.

The dismantling of websites and accounts, engaged in activities such as drug sales, was undertaken to shield the future generations of the UAE. Sheikh Mohammed stressed the necessity of collective efforts from families, media, and educational institutions in protecting the nation's youth, emphasizing their paramount importance.

He further informed the Cabinet about the Digital Wellbeing Council's accomplishments in 2022. The council, in partnership with various social media platforms, successfully eradicated over 160,000 websites and accounts targeting youth, promoting behaviors inconsistent with the UAE's cultural values.

Additionally, Sheikh Mohammed acknowledged the Involuntary Loss of Employment scheme (ILOE), benefitting over seven million employees across all sectors in the UAE. He also highlighted the extensive coverage provided by the Workers' Protection Programme, which ensures the welfare of 98% of the country's workforce.

Sheikh Mohammed said, "Today, we approved a new structure for the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, including establishing a coordinating council for the labor market in the UAE, to maintain its stability and enhance its competitiveness. The workforce is the real engine of the economy, and monitoring their concerns and protecting their rights are essential elements for advancing our national economy."