Filming Conflict and the Boundaries of Expression: Human Rights Implications of UAE Wartime Restrictions

Since the escalation of the 2026 conflict involving Iran, the United Arab Emirates has introduced and reinforced restrictions on filming and sharing footage of missile strikes and their aftermath. Authorities have warned residents and visitors not to record or circulate images of missile debris, attack sites or sensitive locations, citing concerns related to public safety[…]

United Nations rules UAE funded RSF’s atrocities as genocidal

This week a United Nations fact-finding report classified the actions of the Rapid Support Forces in el Fasher of October 2025 as showing hallmarks of genocide. The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) are a paramilitary group in Sudan, warring with the rule ruling Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF). The RSF is being supported militarily, financially and diplomatically[…]

The UAE State Security Agency: An Authority Responsible for Constant Repression

In the United Arab Emirates, there is a state authority that constantly abuses and restricts human rights. This is the State Security Agency (SSA), founded in 1974 by Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The main purpose of this agency is to deal with state security issues. Over time, however, it has been used to[…]

Guilty by Association: The UAE’s Repression Now Targets Dissidents’ Families and Businesses

The United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) 2014 Counterterrorism Law has functioned as a weapon for political repression. With its vague definitions, the law enables authorities to equate peaceful criticism with terrorism, imposing harsh sentences, including life imprisonment and the death penalty, often without credible evidence. In recent years, this repression has expanded beyond outspoken critics to[…]

The Rise of AI Surveillance in the UAE: Implications for Human Rights

Introduction The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has rapidly positioned itself as a leader in artificial intelligence (AI), integrating advanced technologies across various sectors to drive economic growth and enhance governance. Central to this strategy is the deployment of AI-driven surveillance systems aimed at increasing national security and public safety. However, the extensive use of such[…]