A new social media trend that challenges children to set "evil dolls" on fire to mimic horror scenes, can turn highly dangerous, warned Dubai Police, adding that it could lead to "fires, injuries and even fatalities".
The challenge, titled "burning evil dolls", encourages children to light up the dolls whether indoors or outdoors.
Dubai Police warned that the dolls are made from highly flammable materials like plastic and synthetic material that release toxic fumes.
The authority urged parents to monitor their children’s online activity and talk to them about the dangers of copying unsafe challenges that are designed to attract views.
They also reminded the public that sharing or reposting similar dangerous videos is a legal offence that could lead to prosecution for endangering lives or property.
The Dubai Police encouraged reporting any content that promotes or encourages such behaviour through social media or chat groups.
The warning is placed in line with the police's Cybersecurity Awareness Month campaign.
#News | Dubai Police Warn Public Against Dangerous “Burning Evil Dolls” Trend
— Dubai Policeشرطة دبي (@DubaiPoliceHQ) October 19, 2025
Details: https://t.co/Se6e6f2mvd #CyberSecurityAwarenessMonth#StaySafeOnline

Emir of Qatar welcomed by UAE President on visit to Abu Dhabi
UAE, Pakistan leaders discuss boosting economic ties
UAE, Bosnia FMs discuss strengthening bilateral relations
H.H. Sheikh Mohammed launches campaign to rescue 5 million children from hunger
Dubai advances measures to support people of determination
Abu Dhabi Crown Prince to lead UAE delegation at AI Impact Summit in India
Over 14 million Captagon pills, hidden in grain sacks, seized in UAE–Kuwait operation
Remote learning on Fridays during Ramadan for UAE public schools
UAE clarifies enrollment rules for British curriculum schools
UAE announces temporary road closures in Al Dhaid
Umm Al Emarat aid ship sets sail for Gaza Strip
UAE announces Ramadan working hours for private sector
H.H. Sheikh Hamdan highlights nation’s defence vision at naval college ceremony
Members of UAE's National Identity Committee unveiled
Ramadan working hours confirmed for UAE public sector
Kazakhstan crowned champions of UAE SWAT Challenge 2026
H.H. Sheikh Mohammed attends final day of UAE SWAT Challenge
UAE chairs Arab League emergency meeting on Israeli settlement expansion
UAE cracks down on unlicensed domestic worker recruitment platforms
UAE strongly condemns school shooting in Canada
