DUBAI — The UAE’s Ministry of Sports announced on Friday that it will take legal action against individuals and organizations found spreading false information regarding sports activities in the country.
The warning comes amid reports of unauthorized announcements claiming the establishment of sports federations without the required legal approvals.
The ministry’s statement, shared by the state-run news agency WAM, addressed concerns over misinformation impacting the country’s sports sector.
“Bypassing the procedures and regulations set forth in the sports law would expose individuals and entities to legal accountability,” the ministry said, emphasizing that formal protocols are in place to ensure the integrity and credibility of the sports community.
Officials pointed to recent cases in which entities allegedly announced the formation of new sports organizations without following the proper procedures, sparking confusion and concern among athletes, fans, and other stakeholders.
The ministry underscored that any formation of sports federations or clubs must comply with the UAE’s regulatory framework to protect the country’s sports interests and reputation.
Call for Accuracy and Accountability
The ministry also urged media outlets, organizations, and individuals to exercise caution and accuracy when publishing sports-related information, advising them to verify their sources rigorously.
“Ensuring the credibility of sources is essential to avoid publishing any information that may harm the interests of sports and the sports community in the UAE,” the ministry’s statement read.
This appeal aligns with the ministry’s efforts to foster a responsible media environment that supports the UAE’s ambitious goals in sports development.
With the country’s recent strides in international sports, including hosting high-profile events and promoting grassroots sports programs, officials say that misinformation poses a risk to the sector’s growth and public perception.
Strict Regulations for New Sports Entities
Those interested in establishing sports clubs or federations in the UAE must meet specific requirements set forth under the sports law and related regulations.
The Ministry of Sports mandates that all such entities go through an approval process that includes detailed scrutiny to ensure they meet national standards and align with the government’s broader vision for sports development.
According to legal experts, unauthorized claims to establish new sports bodies without due procedure not only jeopardize the reputation of the country’s sports ecosystem but may also lead to significant legal consequences.
The UAE’s strict stance is intended to protect the interests of athletes, sponsors, and fans, who rely on verified information to engage with the sports community.
Ministry’s Proactive Approach to Combat Misinformation
The UAE’s focus on combating misinformation in sports reflects a wider effort to protect the country’s various sectors from unauthorized activities.
The Ministry of Sports’ warning follows similar initiatives by other national entities in the UAE, which have sought to curb the spread of false information on social media and other platforms.
This approach ensures that only credible sources contribute to the public discourse on sports, reinforcing the UAE’s commitment to excellence and integrity.
The ministry encouraged all stakeholders in the UAE’s sports community to uphold these standards by adhering to established protocols, supporting transparency, and ensuring accurate representation of information to safeguard the sector’s interests.
For residents and sports enthusiasts, the ministry’s statement serves as a reminder to rely on verified sources for sports updates and to report any suspicious claims to authorities.