Dubai Police have dismantled a criminal network that pirated encrypted international satellite channels and redistributed them illegally through streaming devices, unlicensed websites, and digital links, selling access to subscribers via annual fees.
Investigators found that members of the network made content owned by global broadcasters available without obtaining licences or approval from rights holders, using illegal digital platforms to generate unlawful revenue at the rights owners’ expense.
The group marketed and sold the pirated streaming services to users in exchange for annual subscription fees, Dubai Police said, causing substantial financial losses to the company holding exclusive rights to the content. The operation violated Federal Law No. 38 of 2021 on copyright, neighbouring rights, and related protections.
Dubai Police said relevant authorities will continue to monitor and pursue anyone who exploits modern technology to infringe intellectual property rights or profit illegally from them.
The force also called on the public to use only officially licensed channels and platforms, and to avoid purchasing digital content or subscriptions from unknown or unlicensed sources. Beyond the legal risks, Dubai Police warned that such services carry security and technical hazards and can expose users to online fraud.
