Interview of Prof. Bushra Alakashee on Akhbar Al Dar
The United Arab Emirates has reaffirmed its humanitarian message and openness to diverse cultures by taking a new step to enhance children's safety in the digital space. The UAE Cabinet has issued a decision setting 15 as the minimum age for using social media platforms, amid the growing influence of smart devices on young generations. The decision aims to protect children from inappropriate content and restore balance between the digital world and real life. It has been widely welcomed by parents, who described it as a protective shield that preserves family values and safeguards children's time and mental well-being. In her remarks, Bushra Alakashee, Professor, from the Department of Education at the University of Sharjah stated that while social media offers benefits, it can negatively affect children’s concentration and real-life interaction and expose them to behaviors and cultures that are distant from local values. She emphasized that setting age restrictions ensures safe and balanced use of technology, strengthens parental guidance, and supports the development of children’s social skills and well-balanced, confident personalities.


