UAE Warns of Dh100,000 Fine, 2 Months in Jail under This Cinema Law

Publish date: Thursday، 04 January 2024

A stern warning has been issued to movie-goers in the UAE, emphasizing the severe consequences of filming or photographing scenes in cinemas without the copyright holders' permission. Despite prior advisories, a notable number of individuals continue to engage in this unlawful practice, prompting legal experts to highlight the implications.

Legal Advisory and Copyright Laws

Alexander Kukuev, managing partner at Uppercase Legal Advisory, reiterates the illegality of filming or photographing movie scenes without permission in the UAE. Citing the recently enacted Federal Law No. 38 of 2021, effective since January 2022, Kukuev outlines the penalties established under Articles 39, 40, and 41. These penalties encompass fines, imprisonment, and the confiscation and destruction of infringing copies. Offenses include reproducing, distributing, and communicating copyrighted works without authorization.

Stringent Penalties

The severity of copyright infringement is underscored by Article 30 of the law, which imposes fines of up to Dh100,000 and potential imprisonment for up to two months on offenders. This stern stance aims to deter individuals from violating copyright laws and protect the intellectual property rights of movie creators.

UAE Warns of Dh100,000 Fine, 2 Months in Jail under This Cinema Law

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