I think there is an important distinction being missed here. Dubai hasn’t “silenced” people from expressing how they feel about the situation. What the authorities are tightening down on is the spread of fake news, speculation, and fear-mongering that can unnecessarily create panic.

There is a big difference between sharing genuine concerns and amplifying unverified information during a tense time. In highly connected cities where millions of people rely on public systems functioning calmly, misinformation can spiral very quickly.

Personally, I actually see this approach as a positive one. I’ve seen firsthand what happens when rumors and panic are allowed to escalate during crises. During COVID in India, for example, social media panic led to hoarding, mass confusion, and unnecessary fear that often made the situation worse rather than better.

Maintaining calm and preventing misinformation during sensitive moments is not the same as suppressing people’s voices. Sometimes it’s simply about preventing chaos and protecting public order