Australia’s landmark move to ban social media platforms for users under 16 has stirred discussion among parents in the UAE, where children spend increasing amounts of time on apps like TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, and Roblox.
While some welcome stricter global controls, many believe the real solution lies in digital education, stronger parental involvement, and open communication rather than broad restrictions.
Parents told Khaleej Times that age limits are often meaningless, as tech-savvy teens can bypass them with ease, making oversight and awareness critical.
Strict Boundaries at Home
Dubai-based mother Um Amira maintains a tightly monitored digital environment for her 13-year-old daughter. She allows her to use only Instagram, and even that account is connected to the mother’s phone and iPad for continuous monitoring.
She firmly refuses to allow Snapchat. “She keeps trying to open a Snapchat account, but I don’t like this app. Every time she creates one, I delete it,” she said.
Although she supports oversight, she is not in favour of blanket bans. “I wouldn’t be happy with a full ban. The algorithms are the problem. One wrong video and the platform keeps pushing inappropriate content.”
She believes even 16 is too young for unrestricted access. “In the UAE, legal responsibility starts at 21. That’s when they can truly make their own decisions,” she said.
She relies on the Family Link app to control screen time, search filters, and device access.
“If we had an officially regulated version of these controls, it would help every family,” she added.
Teens Easily Bypass Age Restrictions
Thirteen-year-old Ali Abdalla admits he regularly uses fake ages to download apps and games. “Sometimes I put that I’m 18 or even 32 so the game doesn’t reject me,” he said. Peer pressure also shapes his choices. “All my friends have these apps, so I felt like I had to get them too.”
Ali has repeatedly asked for TikTok and Instagram but his parents refused. “They’re afraid I might see something inappropriate,” he said. “But everyone at school has TikTok, so I feel left out.”
Beyond Bans: Building Digital Awareness
Mahra Al Kheili, a social worker in Al Ain, said banning apps ignores deeper challenges around digital understanding within families. She explained that students often use platforms far beyond their age levels.
“The issue isn’t just the apps. It’s the lack of communication at home,” she said. “Children today know exactly how to get around restrictions.” She noted that exposure to violent or mature content can lead to emotional and behavioural changes.
“Monitoring tools help, but they are not enough. When children understand why limits exist, they follow them more responsibly,” she said. Al Kheili believes nationwide digital-literacy programmes would better equip families as online risks continue to evolve.
A Need for Practical, Long-Term Solutions
Parents across the UAE agree that children’s online safety requires more than bans.
They say structured digital education, responsible oversight, open conversations, and greater awareness of how algorithms shape content are crucial.
As Australia’s ban continues to spark global discussion, families in the UAE insist that building trust and understanding between parents and children remains the most effective tool in navigating today’s digital world.