Meta Partners with UAE Digital Wellbeing Council for Safer Instagram Experience for Teens
Meta has announced the launch of specialized Instagram accounts designed for teenagers aged 13-15 in the UAE, developed in collaboration with the UAE's Digital Wellbeing Council to enhance online safety.
Key Details of the Teen Accounts
These new Instagram accounts for users aged 13-15 in the UAE come with default settings aimed at creating a safer environment. Key features include:
Default Private Accounts: New accounts created by teens in this age group will automatically be set to private, limiting who can see their content.
Limited Messaging: Restrictions are placed on who can message these teen accounts, primarily allowing contact from approved followers.
Curated Content Suggestions: The algorithm will focus on suggesting age-appropriate content and accounts to follow.
Enhanced Parental Supervision Tools: The suite of tools available to parents for supervising their teen's account activity has been strengthened.
The initiative aims to proactively implement safeguards that address potential risks faced by young users online.
The Partnership with UAE Digital Wellbeing Council
The launch is a result of a direct collaboration between Meta and the UAE's Digital Wellbeing Council. This partnership highlights a joint commitment to promoting digital safety and wellbeing among young people in the Emirates. The council has been instrumental in providing local context and guidance to tailor the features effectively for the UAE audience.
Promoting Digital Wellbeing
This move aligns with broader efforts by both Meta and the UAE government to foster a positive and safe digital environment. By implementing these stricter default settings and empowering parents, the program seeks to reduce potential exposure to harmful content and interactions, contributing to the overall digital wellbeing framework being promoted across the region.
About Meta
Meta builds technologies that help people connect, find communities, and grow businesses. As a global leader in technology, Meta's platforms include Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and others, connecting billions of users worldwide. The company is increasingly focusing on user safety, particularly for younger audiences, and adapting features to meet regulatory and societal expectations globally and regionally.
Looking Ahead
The introduction of these specialized accounts in the UAE represents a localized approach to youth safety on global platforms. It sets a precedent for how tech companies can collaborate with governmental or advisory bodies in the MENA region to address specific local needs and priorities regarding digital safety and responsible technology use. Future expansions or adaptations based on the feedback and results from this UAE rollout could be anticipated.
Source: MEA Tech Watch