UAE: Fines of up to AED 500,000 for online blackmail and threats

The UAE prosecutor’s office has announced a minimum fine of 250,000 dirhams and a maximum fine of 500,000 dirhams for threatening or blackmailing someone online.
Violators will also be sentenced to no more than two years in prison. In a social media post, the prosecutor’s office said the penalties are aimed at combating electronic crime and rumors, according to Article 42 of Federal Decree Law No. 34 of 2021.
According to the law, anyone who blackmails or threatens another person and forces them to do something online against their will is subject to punishment.
The term of imprisonment is increased to 10 years if the threat is aimed at committing a crime or attacking someone’s honor or status.