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UAE authorities summon news agency officials over false Dubai explosion report
The Attorney-General said that the agency's decision to withdraw the report and publish an apology does not preclude the continuation of the investigation
- PUBLISHED: Sat 18 Jul 2026, 4:10 PM UPDATED: Sun 19 Jul 2026, 4:08 PM
- By:
- WAM
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The UAE's Public Prosecution has expanded its investigation into the publication and circulation of a false report claiming explosions were heard in central Dubai, official news agency Wam reported.
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Counsellor Dr Hamad Saif Al Shamsi, Attorney-General of the UAE, said Public Prosecution has taken statements from the reporter. Those involved in preparing, approving, and publishing the report have also been summoned.
The Attorney-General stated the investigation will determine the respective roles of each individual involved in the different stages of the report. It will also determine the extent to which they complied with legal and professional standards governing the verification of information before its publication.
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The news agency's decision to retract the article, and publish an apology, does not prevent the investigation from determining legal responsibility and taking necessary actions as required by law, Wam cited the Attorney General.
On Thursday, July 16, the Dubai Media Office confirmed that the Reuters report regarding "explosions" in Downtown Dubai is false. Reuters later issued a statement saying it "regrets" the report and that the story had been retracted the same evening.
The agency also confirmed it issued a new report highlighting the Dubai Media Office's denial.
The news agency acknowledged that the report did not meet its standards. Reuters "could not immediately determine where the sounds were coming from or their significance, and did not offer that context," the statement added.
The Dubai Media Office emphasised the need to rely on official sources and avoid spreading rumors. It also warned that media outlets publishing false or unverified information will face action under local and federal laws.
UAE authorities constantly notify the public of any important development, through their social media and official channels.
In March, Dubai Police issued an advisory, warning residents against sharing unverified content, and reminding the public that violators will face criminal penalties including imprisonment and fines of no less than Dh200,000.