ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates — The UAE’s Public Prosecution has expanded its investigation into the publication and circulation of a false report that claimed explosions had been heard in central Dubai.
Attorney-General Counsellor Dr. Hamad Saif Al Shamsi said prosecutors have taken statements from the reporter involved in the story and have also summoned others who helped prepare, approve and publish it, according to the state news agency WAM.
He said investigators will examine the role of each person involved at every stage of the report and determine whether legal and professional standards for verifying information were followed before publication.
Al Shamsi added that the news agency’s later decision to withdraw the report and issue an apology does not stop the investigation or prevent authorities from assigning legal responsibility where needed.
The case stems from a Reuters report on July 16 that described explosions in Downtown Dubai. Dubai officials immediately denied that any explosions had occurred and said the report was false.
Reuters later said it regretted the story and retracted it the same evening. The agency also issued a follow-up report that included the Dubai Media Office’s denial.
Dubai authorities have since reiterated that media outlets must rely on official sources and avoid spreading unverified claims. The Dubai Media Office warned that publishing false or unverified information could lead to action under local and federal law.
The episode has also renewed attention on the UAE’s broader effort to curb misinformation. In March, Dubai Police warned residents against sharing unverified content and said legal penalties could apply to those who do so.
Authorities are expected to continue reviewing the case as part of a wider push to enforce accurate reporting and protect the public from misinformation.
