UAE Experts Warn: Chasing Social Media Fame Abroad Poses Legal Risks for Travellers

Dubai: Experts caution that the quest for digital recognition can lead travellers into unforeseen legal and social dilemmas when their content creation infringes on local laws, regulations, and accepted public conduct.

Social media platforms are increasingly inundated with videos from travellers aiming to capture attention-grabbing moments during their holidays. Some individuals engage in provocative behaviours at airports, hotels, museums, and restaurants, or mock local customs and currencies to garner views and boost engagement.

Lawyer and legal consultant Rashid Al-Hafiti highlighted that many of these actions arise from a lack of understanding regarding the laws and regulations of the countries visited. He emphasized the need for heightened awareness of such behaviours and their potential repercussions before they escalate into legal violations or accountability issues.

Al-Hafiti noted that travel seasons, particularly summer, often see a surge in these behaviours among younger individuals eager to document their experiences for social media. However, actions that may seem humorous to content creators can be interpreted differently by local authorities.

He pointed out that laws differ significantly across countries, with behaviours tolerated in one location potentially deemed criminal in another. The expansive reach of social media amplifies the impact of such content, complicating efforts to control its dissemination once published and potentially exacerbating any consequences.

Al-Hafiti also stressed that the responsibility is heightened when individuals don national dress or traditional attire, as they may be perceived as representatives of their culture, leaving impressions that extend beyond themselves.

Lawyer and legal consultant Sarah Al-Baqishi remarked that many individuals view travel videos as fleeting entertainment, unaware that their legal implications can persist long after the trip concludes. She explained that some travellers focus solely on the immediate engagement generated by a video, neglecting the possibility that the content could later serve as evidence in complaints, disputes, or investigations. Digital content often remains accessible and can continue to circulate even after the original post is deleted.

Al-Baqishi added that responsibility extends beyond the act itself to how it is filmed, presented, or commented upon, especially if it involves disparaging public facilities, employees performing their duties, or individuals who have not consented to their appearance in the content. She emphasized that responsible use of social media has become an essential obligation for travellers, urging users to consider the potential consequences before sharing content online.

Beyond Views and Engagement

Cultural heritage researcher Badriya Al-Hosani stated that travel has traditionally been about discovering cultures, learning about societies, and creating lasting memories. However, social media has altered the travel experience for some, with a focus on viral content overshadowing the journey itself.

She explained that travel-related content reaches diverse audiences, making every action or message part of the impression formed about both the individual and the society they represent. Al-Hosani cautioned that the pursuit of views and online fame should not overshadow the genuine motivation for documenting travel experiences, particularly when it encourages controversial or attention-seeking behaviour.

She emphasized that the true value of content lies not solely in its reach and engagement but in the messages it conveys and the impressions it leaves on viewers. Al-Hosani also underscored the significance of the Emirati national dress as a symbol of national identity, values, and traditions. Its inclusion in travel content carries broader cultural implications and influences how Emirati culture is perceived on the global stage.

She stressed the importance of ensuring that content reflects values of respect, responsibility, and cultural awareness while considering the customs, laws, and privacy of host countries.

‘Minor’ Actions That Can Lead to Penalties

Experts noted that certain behaviours, often deemed harmless, can result in penalties in various countries:

• Singapore: Chewing gum in public is heavily regulated, and drinking water on the subway can incur fines.
• Thailand: Defacing, damaging, or insulting currency is a criminal offence that may lead to imprisonment.
• Japan: Walking while eating is generally considered impolite in many public areas, and loud phone conversations on public transport are discouraged.
• United States: Crossing roads outside designated pedestrian crossings can result in fines in numerous cities.
• Australia: Smoking is prohibited within four metres of government building entrances.

Experts concluded that while documenting travel experiences is a valuable way to share memories and cultural insights, travellers must ensure that their content creation does not compromise respect for local laws, customs, and public conduct.

Source: www.emirates247.com

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Published on 2026-07-05 08:57:00 • By the Editorial Desk