UAE orders arrest of 35, including 19 Indians, over fake war videos on social media

The United Arab Emirates has ordered the arrest of 35 individuals, including 19 Indian nationals , for publishing misleading and fabricated video clips on social media amid heightened regional tensions linked to the Israel-US-Iran conflict, authorities said on Sunday. The suspects have been referred for an expedited trial following investigations into online content deemed harmful to public security and stability.

According to the state-run Emirates News Agency, the accused were identified through extensive electronic monitoring of digital platforms aimed at curbing misinformation and manipulated media. Attorney-General Hamad Saif Al Shamsi said the defendants were divided into three groups based on the nature of the content they circulated.

The first group allegedly shared genuine footage of missile interceptions and aerial activity , but added dramatic commentary, sound effects, and captions suggesting active attacks on the UAE , potentially causing panic. Some clips showed crowds watching the sky while falsely implying imminent strikes, which officials said could expose defence responses and heighten public anxiety.

The second group is accused of disseminating AI-generated fake visuals , including fabricated scenes of explosions, missile strikes, large fires, and damage to prominent landmarks. In several cases, footage from incidents outside the UAE was falsely presented as local events, often enhanced with national flags, dates, or location tags to make the claims appear credible.

The third group allegedly posted content glorifying a hostile state’s military actions and leadership , portraying regional aggression as achievements and amplifying propaganda considered harmful to national interests. Authorities also said some videos exploited children’s emotions or falsely depicted destruction of military facilities and infrastructure to intensify fear among residents.

Earlier, on Saturday, the public prosecution had already detained 10 suspects in a related case . Officials warned that spreading misinformation during sensitive security situations constitutes a serious crime under UAE law.

Those convicted could face at least one year of imprisonment and fines starting from AED 100,000 , prosecutors said, emphasizing that such acts undermine national security, public order, and social stability.