A UAE resident was briefly detained after arriving at the airport due to a complaint linked to an Instagram comment, in a case that Ajman Police say highlights the risks of online interactions and the importance of responsible social media use.
According to Ajman Police, the woman was stopped upon arrival after authorities found that she was wanted in a case registered in Ajman. While her husband and children were allowed to continue their journey, she was held overnight before being transferred to the emirate for legal procedures.
How an Instagram Comment Triggered the Case
The issue reportedly started with a comment posted under another woman’s photo on Instagram. The resident wrote that the handbag appearing in the picture was a “knockoff” or fake.
Although the comment may have seemed minor, it reportedly led other users to mock and bully the woman who posted the photo. She later filed an official complaint, which initiated the legal process.
Authorities said the situation was eventually resolved after the parties reached reconciliation, but the case served as an example of how online remarks can escalate into legal issues.
Ajman Police Introduce ‘Remote Bail’
During the explanation of the incident, Ajman Police also highlighted a new service called Remote Bail, launched under the emirate’s Zero Bureaucracy Programme.
The service allows bail procedures to be completed digitally and remotely in cases classified as misdemeanours rather than serious criminal offenses. The system was developed in coordination with the Public Prosecution to simplify procedures and reduce administrative delays.
Officials say the initiative helps speed up legal processes while maintaining transparency and efficiency.
UAE Cybercrime Law Reminder
Authorities also reminded residents that the UAE’s federal law on combating rumours and cybercrimes imposes strict penalties for online abuse, defamation, or harmful digital behaviour.
Violations can result in fines ranging from Dh250,000 to Dh500,000, imprisonment, or both, depending on the severity of the offense.
The case serves as a reminder that comments on social media platforms, even seemingly casual ones, can carry legal consequences under UAE law.