Abu Dhabi: The Digital Wellbeing Council, headed by H.H. Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, has unveiled a pioneering feature developed by Meta aimed at shielding teenagers from inappropriate or unwanted online content. This initiative marks a regional first, underscoring the UAE's dedication to fostering a digitally empowered society that enhances quality of life and aligns with its leadership's vision of a secure digital culture.
According to Emirates News Agency, this new feature, launched on Instagram, employs algorithms to detect and limit exposure to harmful content aimed at teenagers. It provides tools for parental monitoring of digital activity, reinforces privacy settings, and supports the psychological and behavioral wellbeing of young users. The initiative encourages responsible technology use and contributes to a safe digital environment for future generations.
The feature was announced during a youth circle event attended by H.H. Sheikh Saif bin Zayed and senior ministers, including Sarah bint Yousif Al Amiri, Minister of Education; Abdullah bin Sultan bin Awad Al Nuaimi, Minister of Justice; Sana bint Mohammed Suhail, Minister of Family; Omar bin Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications; Dr. Sultan bin Saif Al Neyadi, Minister of State for Youth Affairs; Dr. Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili, Chairman of the Department of Community Development, as well as government officials, Meta representatives, youth, and social media influencers.
In conjunction with the feature's launch, a user guide was introduced to assist parents in understanding the new tools and engaging in meaningful discussions with their children about digital safety.
A roundtable discussion, featuring council members, experts, and private sector representatives, explored ways to enhance collaboration, update digital safety frameworks, and align policies with future technological shifts. The discussions covered improving Instagram's policies, developing agile digital safety regulations, and bolstering national efforts to ensure teenagers' online wellbeing.
Additionally, the Digital Wellbeing Council organized a workshop for teenagers, parents, and influencers to raise awareness about the feature and promote digital safety practices.
The council's wider mandate includes monitoring global and local digital trends, coordinating national initiatives, revising regulatory frameworks, and partnering with international entities to improve digital wellbeing and community safety.