UAE authorities warn Netflix over 'inappropriate content'

Regulator says it will monitor output available on the streaming service

Netflix has been told to restrict certain content that is available to users in the Emirates. Reuters

The UAE government has told Netflix to remove certain content from its streaming service that it said is inappropriate for children.

Media and telecoms regulators made the decision due to concerns that some shows or films may breach UAE laws.

“It has recently been noticed that the Netflix platform has broadcast some visual materials and content that violates media broadcasting regulations in the UAE and contradicts societal values ​​in the country,” the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority and the Media Regulatory Office said.

“Netflix has been contacted to remove this content, especially the offending content directed at children.”

The statement said the authorities will follow up on what the platform broadcasts and “apply the necessary procedures in the event of broadcasting any material that … does not comply with the laws and regulations in force”.

Saudi Arabia took similar action against the streaming giant on Tuesday.

The Riyadh-based General Commission for Audiovisual Media said the content that must be removed was deemed offensive to "Islamic and societal values".

On Sunday, the Ministry of Education said teachers must sign a Code of Conduct that safeguards the welfare of children and what they are exposed to.

It covers a range of factors from bullying and neglect to teaching around issues including gender and sexuality.

Biggest Indian films coming to Netflix: in pictures