Dubai Police has dismantled an organised criminal network involved in pirating encrypted international satellite television channels and illegally distributing copyrighted content through receiver devices, online links, and unauthorised websites.
According to Dubai Police, the group rebroadcast premium television content without obtaining the required licences or approvals from rights holders and sold access to customers through unlawful annual subscription packages.
Authorities said extensive investigations and monitoring operations revealed that members of the network exploited unauthorised digital platforms and online distribution channels to make copyrighted media content available to the public while generating illicit financial gains.
The investigation found that the suspects actively marketed and sold pirated broadcasting services through subscription-based packages, violating UAE laws governing intellectual property, copyright, and related rights.
Dubai Police said the illegal activities caused significant financial losses to the company holding the exclusive broadcasting rights for the content.
The force stressed that such offences constitute a violation of UAE Federal Law No. 38 of 2021 on Copyright and Neighbouring Rights and reaffirmed its commitment to protecting intellectual property rights and combating digital piracy.
Authorities added that specialised teams will continue monitoring and pursuing individuals and groups who misuse modern technologies to infringe copyright protections or generate unlawful profits through illegal digital activities.
Dubai Police also urged the public to access digital content only through authorised broadcasters and licensed streaming platforms, warning against purchasing subscriptions from unknown or unlicensed providers.
The force cautioned that illegal streaming services can expose users to legal consequences, cybersecurity threats, data breaches, and online fraud, in addition to undermining the rights of content creators and broadcasters.
Officials reiterated that protecting intellectual property remains a key priority in supporting innovation, creativity, and the digital economy in the UAE.
