Meta launches 'teen accounts' in UAE to enhance digital safety

Meta has announced new ‘teen accounts’ for Instagram, developed in partnership with the UAE’s Digital Wellbeing Council to help protect young users from harmful content.

This marks the first initiative of its kind in the region.

The new tools use advanced algorithms to detect and reduce exposure to unwanted material, while offering strengthened privacy settings and controls tailored for teens and their parents.

These features are designed to create a safer, more supportive digital environment for young users.

The launch was announced during a youth circle event attended by His Highness Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior.

Also in attendance were senior ministers, Meta representatives, government officials and influential digital figures.

Sheikh Saif emphasised that digital wellbeing in the UAE goes beyond infrastructure and smart services to focus on safeguarding future generations and promoting responsible engagement with technology.

He added that the aim is to ensure the digital world remains a platform for growth, wellbeing and global leadership.

A user guide was also introduced to help parents understand the new features and encourage open conversations about online safety.

The Council additionally hosted a workshop and policy roundtable to explore future regulations, strengthen digital safety frameworks, and support cross-sector collaboration to enhance youth wellbeing in the digital space.