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2/18/26, 12:43 PM UAE Council Reviews Child Digital Safety Plan, Education Policy Reforms in Second 2026 Meeting - The Gulf Observer
Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed stressed that regulating children’s use of social media is
a national responsibility requiring clear and robust frameworks that align with rapid
technological advancements. He highlighted the need to establish a safe and
balanced digital environment for future generations while safeguarding societal
values.

The Chairman explained that the proposed direction follows a phased, risk-based
implementation strategy prioritising social media platforms due to their widespread
influence among children. The framework includes age-based access regulations
tailored to different developmental stages to balance technological opportunities with
child protection.

He underscored the importance of integrating child, community and education
policies to strengthen family stability, social cohesion and long-term national
competitiveness. He added that policy impact should ultimately be measured by the
development of confident individuals proud of their national identity and equipped
with skills to contribute to the UAE’s progress.

Strengthening Family and Community Role

Sheikha Mariam bint Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan emphasised that empowering
families is central to navigating rapid digital transformations. She called for
equipping parents with practical tools and knowledge to manage children’s digital
engagement responsibly and foster healthy online habits.

She noted that regulating children’s social media use extends beyond content
monitoring to its broader impact on family relationships, communication quality,
children’s real-life engagement, and cognitive development, including focus,
attention span and time management.

Early intervention during foundational developmental stages, she said, is essential
to cultivate balanced digital habits and mitigate potential behavioural and cognitive
risks. She further highlighted the importance of protecting children’s digital well-
being and mental health while reinforcing national identity and critical thinking skills.

National Child Digital Safety Plan

During the meeting, Sana bint Mohammed Suhail, Minister of Family and
Chairperson of the Child Digital Safety Council, presented updates on the national
plan to enhance child digital safety.

She stated that the plan operates within a comprehensive national framework aimed
at transitioning from general awareness to an integrated system combining
regulation, empowerment and strengthened community engagement.

The initiative includes developing a national classification system for digital
platforms based on risk assessment to ensure proportionate and enforceable
regulatory obligations. The first phase will prioritise social media platforms and age-
based access management, with gradual expansion to other digital services.

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