UAE blocks 13,667 pirate websites for copyright infringement

The UAE's Ministry of Economy and Tourism has blocked 13,667 pirate websites for violating copyright laws in the first quarter of 2026.

The campaign, part of the InstaBlock initiative, utilises artificial intelligence for real-time monitoring and immediate processing of copyright infringement reports in creative content and digital broadcasting.

The ministry worked with the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority and other stakeholders, including Abu Dhabi Media Network, MBC Shahid, OSN, Yango Play, STARZPLAY, the Brand Owner Council, and Nissan Middle East, to block the sides.

Enforcement intensified during Ramadan to combat increased broadcasting violations, with records showing that immediate blocks during the holy month alone rose to 5,677 in 2026 from 62 sites in 2023, 1,117 in 2024, and 2,217 in 2025. 

The initiative brings the total number of sites blocked since the launch of the InstaBlock Lab in February 2025 to 47,667.

Dr Abdulrahman Hassan Al Muaini, Assistant Undersecretary for the Intellectual Property Sector, stated that the initiative "reflects the effectiveness of the national approach to protecting intellectual property and fostering a secure digital environment that supports innovation and global competitiveness."

The campaign also aimed to raise community awareness regarding the importance of accessing creative works through official and licensed sources.

The ministry emphasised that these efforts align with the "We the UAE 2031" vision to protect the knowledge-based economy and enhance the country's international standing in digital content protection.