WhatsApp users in the UAE are facing a wave of important changes. Authorities have tightened rules around banking and digital communication. At the same time, courts and regulators are redefining how messages are treated. Meanwhile, the platform itself is rolling out new features. These updates affect how people chat, share, and even call through the app. Here is a clear look at the five major developments every user should understand.
Central Bank blocks WhatsApp for banking services
The Central Bank of the UAE has taken a strict step. It has banned all financial institutions from using WhatsApp and similar messaging apps for customer services from May 1.
This directive was issued on April 17. It stops banks from sharing customer data, confirming transactions, sending OTPs, or exchanging financial documents through these apps. The rule applies to banks, exchange houses, insurers, and payment providers.
Officials pointed to rising fraud risks and impersonation cases. They also raised concerns about data leaving the UAE, as WhatsApp may store information abroad.
As a result, all existing services on messaging platforms must shut down. Banks must shift users to approved channels like mobile apps, call centers, or branches. Institutions had until April 30 to confirm compliance. Penalties will apply to those who fail to follow the rule. This move sends a clear message. Users should stop sharing banking details on WhatsApp.
Read More: Dubai Police Confirm Electronic Surveillance of Private WhatsApp Messages
Private chats now fall under cybercrime laws
Many residents still believe private chats are safe from legal action. However, legal experts say that is not true. In the UAE, WhatsApp chats and groups fall under cybercrime laws. Users can break rules without knowing it. For example, forwarding unverified content or sharing images without consent can create legal trouble. Tagging someone in harmful complaints can also lead to action.
Penalties are serious. Fines range from Dh250,000 to Dh500,000, and prison time is possible. In March 2026, authorities arrested 35 people for spreading misleading digital content.
Lawyers highlight one key detail. Forwarding a message counts as republication under Article 52 of the Cybercrime Law. This applies even if the user did not create the content.
Group admins face responsibility for shared content
WhatsApp group admins also face growing legal pressure. They are not required to monitor every message. However, they cannot ignore illegal content. Under Article 53 of the Cybercrime Law, admins may face liability if they allow unlawful material to remain after noticing it. This creates a duty to act quickly.
Lawyers suggest a simple approach. Admins should delete illegal content immediately. They should warn or remove the user responsible. They should also avoid engaging with such messages.
If harmful content keeps appearing, leaving the group may be the safest option. Ignoring repeated violations can increase risk. This means running a group now comes with clear responsibility.
Courts accept WhatsApp messages as legal evidence
In another major shift, courts have clarified the role of WhatsApp messages in legal cases. Dubai’s highest court has ruled that these messages can serve as evidence.
The Dubai Court of Cassation overturned a lower court decision in a personal status case. The earlier ruling had failed to properly review WhatsApp messages.
However, courts will not accept messages without checks. Experts must verify them for authenticity. Messages can be edited, fabricated, or taken out of context.
Legal experts say this ruling carries a strong warning. Messages sent on mobile apps can affect legal rights and obligations. Users should keep this in mind before sending sensitive or emotional texts.
WhatsApp Web introduces voice and video calling
Alongside these legal updates, WhatsApp is adding a new feature. The platform has started rolling out voice and video calling on WhatsApp Web. Users can now place calls directly from their browser. There is no need to install extra software. Earlier, this feature was limited to Windows and macOS apps.
Eligible users will see call buttons in one-to-one chats. The feature also supports screen sharing. Like other services, it remains protected by end-to-end encryption. However, group calls are not available yet. The rollout is currently limited to beta users. A wider release is expected in the coming weeks.
In the UAE, availability depends on approval from the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority. WhatsApp calling remains restricted across mobile and desktop apps in the country.
What it means for users
These changes reshape how WhatsApp works in the UAE. Banking through the app is no longer allowed. Private chats carry legal weight. Group admins must act responsibly. Courts can review messages as evidence. At the same time, new features continue to arrive.
Together, these updates highlight one key point. WhatsApp is no longer just a casual chat tool. It now sits at the center of legal, financial, and digital life in the UAE.
