UAE travellers warned: Chasing social media fame abroad can carry legal risks

Dubai: Experts have warned that the pursuit of digital fame can place travellers in unexpected legal and social situations when content creation crosses the boundaries of local laws, regulations and accepted public behaviour. Social media platforms are increasingly filled with videos posted by travellers seeking eye-catching content during their holidays. In some cases, individuals resort to attention-grabbing behaviour in airports, hotels, museums and restaurants, or engage in sarcastic interactions with local facilities and services, such as mocking a destination’s currency or customs, in an effort to attract views and increase engagement. Lawyer and legal consultant Rashid Al-Hafiti Lawyer and legal consultant Rashid Al-Hafiti said many of these practices stem from a lack of awareness of the laws and regulations in destination countries. He stressed the importance of increasing awareness of such behaviour and its potential consequences before it reaches the stage of legal violations or accountability. He noted that travel and holiday seasons, particularly during the summer, often see an increase in these behaviours among young people seeking to document moments for social media. However, actions perceived as humorous by content creators may be interpreted differently by authorities. Al-Hafiti pointed out that laws vary significantly from one country to another, and behaviour that may be tolerated in one destination could be considered a punishable offence in another. He added that the reach of social media platforms amplifies the impact of such content, making it difficult to control its spread once published and potentially magnifying any consequences. He stressed that responsibility becomes even greater when individuals appear in national dress or traditional clothing that reflects their identity and heritage, as they may be viewed as representatives of their country and culture, leaving impressions that extend beyond the individual. Lawyer and legal consultant Sarah Al-Baqishi Lawyer and legal consultant Sarah Al-Baqishi said many people view travel videos as temporary entertainment content, while their legal implications may continue long after a trip ends. She explained that some travellers focus on the immediate interaction generated by a video without considering that the content may later be used as evidence in the event of a complaint, dispute or investigation. Digital content often remains accessible and can continue circulating even after the original post is removed. Al-Baqishi added that responsibility is not limited to the act itself but may also extend to how it is filmed, presented or commented on, particularly if it involves insulting public facilities, employees performing their duties or individuals who have not consented to appearing in the content. She stressed that responsible use of social media platforms has become an essential part of a traveller’s obligations and urged users to consider the consequences before publishing content online. Beyond views and engagement Cultural heritage researcher Badriya Al-Hosani Cultural heritage researcher Badriya Al-Hosani said travel has traditionally been associated with discovering cultures, learning about societies and creating lasting memories. However, social media has changed how some people experience travel, with some prioritising viral content over the experience itself. She explained that travel-related content often reaches audiences from different cultures and backgrounds, making every action or message part of the image formed about the individual and the society they represent. Al-Hosani said the pursuit of views and online fame should not become the primary motivation for documenting travel experiences, particularly when it encourages controversial or attention-seeking behaviour. She emphasised that the true value of content is not measured solely by reach and engagement, but by the messages it conveys and the impression it leaves on viewers. She also highlighted the significance of the Emirati national dress as a symbol of national identity, values and traditions. Its appearance in travel content carries broader cultural implications and contributes to how Emirati culture is perceived internationally. Al-Hosani stressed the importance of ensuring that content reflects values of respect, responsibility and cultural awareness, while taking into account the customs, laws and privacy of host countries. ‘Minor’ actions that can lead to penalties Experts noted that some behaviours widely considered harmless can carry penalties in certain countries: Singapore: Chewing gum in public is heavily regulated, while drinking water on the subway can lead to fines. Thailand: Defacing, damaging or insulting currency is a criminal offence that can result in imprisonment. Japan: Walking while eating is widely regarded as impolite in many public areas, while loud phone conversations on public transport are discouraged. United States: Crossing road