UAE Blocks Over 13,000 Websites in Anti-Piracy Effort

Apr 28, 2026

64 min

Apr 28, 2026 15:30

UAE blocks 13,667 websites in Q1 in piracy crackdown

## Significant Increase in Website Blocks

In the first quarter of 2026, the UAE blocked 13,667 websites as part of a campaign to combat online piracy. This represents a nearly 400% increase compared to the same period in 2025. The initiative is led by the Ministry of Economy and Tourism and utilizes the "InstaBlock" centre, which was launched in February 2025.

## InstaBlock's Role in Enforcement

The "InstaBlock" centre employs artificial intelligence to monitor and block infringing websites in real time. Since its inception, the centre has blocked a total of 47,667 websites. The system allows for rapid response to copyright infringement complaints, enhancing the UAE's ability to protect intellectual property rights.

## Collaboration and Focus During Ramadan

The campaign was conducted in collaboration with the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority and involved major media and streaming platforms. During Ramadan, a period of high demand for digital content, 5,677 websites were blocked, highlighting the campaign's intensified efforts.

## Broader Goals and Impact

Beyond enforcement, the initiative aims to raise awareness about intellectual property rights and encourage the use of licensed platforms. This effort supports the UAE's goal to improve its standing in global digital content protection and foster the growth of creative industries, aligning with the "We the UAE 2031" vision.

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