The police in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, have apprehended 45 individuals, including foreign nationals, for allegedly disseminating misleading information and sharing videos of Iranian attacks in the Gulf region. This crackdown occurred on March 1, 2026, following a series of attacks from Iran, with authorities accusing the suspects of filming various locations during these attacks and posting the content on social media. The arrests are part of a broader effort to control the flow of information that could sway public opinion and incite panic among the populace.

UAE laws related to combating rumors and cyber crimes empower authorities to punish individuals who disseminate online information that is deemed false or harmful to public safety. This legal framework is increasingly being enforced, particularly during periods of tension and conflict in the region. According to reports, an additional case involves a 60-year-old British man in Dubai, who was also detained for filming and sharing content linked to the Iranian attacks, further highlighting the UAE's stringent stance on such matters.

This situation reflects not only the local response to external threats but also the UAE's proactive measures for maintaining public order and social stability in times of crisis. The decision to arrest individuals for sharing information underscores the government's commitment to controlling narratives and ensuring that communication does not insight unrest amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Gulf.