UAE: Photos or videos at cinema – Up to Dh100,000, 2 months jail

In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the act of recording movies or capturing images within a cinema setting has recently been met with stringent legal repercussions. This article sheds light on the consequences individuals may face, emphasizing the updated legal framework and the seriousness of violating copyright regulations.

Despite explicit warnings preceding movie screenings about adhering to the nation’s copyright laws, a significant number of people continue to engage in the unauthorized recording of movies or taking pictures during screenings. This seemingly innocuous act, however, can lead to severe penalties, including imprisonment and substantial fines.

According to Alexander Kukuev, the managing partner of Uppercase Legal Advisory, the UAE strictly prohibits the unauthorized recording or photographing of movie scenes in theaters without explicit permission from the copyright holders. This legal stance is reinforced by the UAE Government’s Federal Law No. 38 of 2021, which supersedes the former Federal Law No. 7 of 2002. The new legislation, which came into effect in January 2022, specifically addresses issues related to Copyright and Neighboring Rights.

Kukuev emphasizes that copyright infringement encompasses various acts such as reproducing, distributing, and communicating a work without the owner’s consent. The consequences of such actions, as outlined in Articles 39, 40, and 41 of UAE Federal Law No. 38 of 2021, include not only hefty fines and imprisonment but also the potential seizure and destruction of infringing copies.

This heightened legal scrutiny underscores the UAE’s commitment to protecting intellectual property and maintaining a robust framework to deter piracy. As technology continues to advance, the enforcement of such regulations becomes increasingly crucial to safeguard the rights of content creators and uphold the integrity of the film industry.

Individuals in the UAE should be aware of the severe legal consequences associated with recording movies or taking pictures in theaters without proper authorization. The implementation of Federal Law No. 38 of 2021 reflects the government’s proactive approach to combat copyright infringement, sending a clear message about the importance of respecting intellectual property rights within the country.