I understand the frustration of experiencing poor service at any establishment and feeling inclined to share your negative experience online. However, if you reside in Dubai, it’s crucial to exercise caution before posting such reviews. Even a seemingly harmless negative review can lead to serious consequences. The key lies in understanding the difference between offering constructive criticism and making defamatory statements. Join me as I explain the intricacies of defamation laws in Dubai and share tips on how to avoid fines and penalties resulting from common, inadvertent mistakes.
Understanding The Law
The defamation law in the UAE imposes penalties for public defamation, with fines reaching up to AED 20,000 and the possibility of imprisonment. Aggravated cases, such as defamation through media channels, can lead to even more severe punishments.
In the UAE, cybercrime laws strictly forbid the dissemination of false information and carry stringent penalties, particularly during times of crises or pandemics. Posting insults or false attributions online can lead to fines ranging from AED 100,000 to AED 500,000, along with potential imprisonment for up to 2 years.
Legal Ramifications Of Reviews – Can businesses Sue For Negative reviews?
The legal consequences depend on the nature of the content. Reviews that are insulting, malicious, misleading, or discourage others from supporting a business can lead to legal repercussions under both the penal code and cybercrime law. Businesses have the option to pursue both criminal charges for defamation and civil cases to seek compensation.
Constructive criticism stemming from genuine experiences typically does not amount to defamation, unless it includes insults or malicious intent. Even factual statements that damage someone’s reputation can be considered defamatory. Therefore, it’s crucial to ensure that your feedback is honest and does not cross the line into defamation.
The Viral Effect Of Negative Reviews Online
Social media magnifies the impact of reviews, presenting new challenges. Feedback is no longer confined to word of mouth; it’s now public and has the potential to go viral, significantly heightening the risk of reputational harm for businesses. Legal expert Nikhat Sardar Khan, speaking to Khaleej Times, highlighted the concept of ‘digital libel,’ emphasizing its enduring nature and global reach. Negative reviews can be archived and remain accessible indefinitely, amplifying their long-term impact.
Real-Life Consequences In UAE
In 2023, a woman in Dubai faced legal action for defamation after posting on Instagram criticizing a hospital, labeling it the “worst hospital” and accusing doctors of incompetence. She was fined and instructed to remove the video in accordance with cybercrime law. In another incident from May 2020, a woman was convicted for making defamatory remarks about a medical center on Google and Instagram, alleging they provided the “worst service” and suggesting fake positive reviews. The court imposed a fine of AED 5,000, confiscated her phone, and deactivated her social media accounts. Despite her appeal being rejected, the defamation charge against her was upheld by the court.
Now that you understand the repercussions of posting impractical negative reviews online in Dubai, proceed with caution. While no one expects you to always praise establishments that provide poor service, the important lesson here is to be mindful of your words. Ensure that your feedback is constructive and avoid unintentionally causing harm to yourself while attempting to criticize others.
