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Planning April Fools joke? Jail, up to Dh200,000 fine for sharing rumours, authority warns
The authority warned that although such jokes might seem like an easy way to gain views, quick fame and achieve virality, the reality is quite different
- PUBLISHED: Tue 31 Mar 2026, 8:33 PM UPDATED: Wed 1 Apr 2026, 8:12 AM
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Sharjah Public Prosecution has warned residents against sharing false information on the occasion of April Fools, which falls on Wednesday, April 1.
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The first day of the month is when people usually play pranks on each other or make jokes. However, the authority warned that sharing false information, even in the form of light-hearted humour, can carry real legal consequences.
Circulating or reposting rumours through social media may expose individuals to legal liability, given their negative impact on society and its security, it said.
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According to the Article 217 of Federal Decree-Law No. 31 of 2021 on the issuance of the Crimes and Penalties Law, violators face imprisonment for a period of no less than one year and a fine of no less than Dh100,000 for broadcasting or publishing false news, statements, or misleading rumors.
The authority warned that although such jokes might seem like an easy way to gain views, quick fame and achieve virality, the reality is quite different.
"The law is clear. Ignorance of the law is no excuse and does not absolve one of responsibility. Is it really worth risking your future… for a joke?" read the post.
List of penalties
Circulating false rumours
As per Article 52 of Federal Decree Law No. 34 of 2021 on the issuance of the Combating Rumours and Cybercrime, anyone who uses the information network or any means of information technology to publish, republish or recirculate false rumours, faces jail time for a period not less than one year and a fine of not less than Dh100,000.
Igniting public opinion
Publishing false news that could incite or agitate public opinion against the state or one of its institutions leads to imprisonment and a fine of no less than Dh100,000. The penalty is increased if it is against an official entity, with imprisonment for a period of no less than two years and a fine of Dh200,000.
Rumours in time of crises, emergencies, or disasters
During times of crises, emergencies or disasters, the penalties get harsher, as false information can threaten the security and safety of society.
Violators will be imprisoned for a period of no less than two years and a fine of no less than Dh200,000, in accordance with Article 52 of Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021 on Combating Rumors and Cybercrimes.
Rumours during war
Meanwhile, during wartime, deliberately spreading rumors to harm the state’s defense readiness, military operations of the armed forces, weaken morale, or spread panic, may result in a penalty up to the death sentence, in accordance with Article 175 of Federal Decree-Law No. 31 of 2021 on Crimes and Penalties.
