(Image caption: The latest appeals recall an earlier UAE effort to discourage offensive exchanges on social media. Photo: Getty Images.)
Prominent Emirati and Saudi figures are calling on Gulf nationals to put aside online arguments and focus on the longstanding cultural, social and family ties connecting their societies.
Dr Anwar Gargash, diplomatic adviser to the UAE President, urged Gulf nationals on Saturday to rise above social media disputes, saying that offensive exchanges did not reflect the region’s ethics and values.
“We may differ in our assessment of situations, but there is no alternative to solidarity, prioritising wisdom and rejecting bickering,” Gargash wrote on X.
His remarks on October 17 came amid similar appeals from Gulf cultural figures, actors, poets and social media users, with calls for unity extending beyond politics into poetry, sports and everyday life.
Saudi Prince Calls for Unity and Respect
Saudi Prince Abdulrahman bin Musaad, a prominent poet, addressed the issue after becoming involved in an online debate comparing poetry.
“Please keep me out of this argument, which benefits nobody,” the prince wrote before urging Saudi, Emirati and other Gulf social media users to focus on what brings their societies together.
“My advice is that we seek out and highlight what unites us, not what divides us. We should promote opinions that bring people together and set aside those that drive them apart,” he said.
The prince criticised offensive language, personal attacks and insults directed at national figures. He warned that defending one’s country should not be used as an excuse to show hostility towards neighbouring societies.
He also cautioned users against assuming that social media accounts displaying national flags necessarily belong to citizens of the countries represented.
Saudi actor Nasser Al Qasabi praised the prince’s message, saying he was deeply moved by his appeal.
“What unites the peoples of the Gulf is deeper than a passing disagreement, and more firmly rooted than voices of incitement or attempts to cast doubt upon it,” Al Qasabi wrote.
He also proposed that Gulf intellectuals, journalists, artists and other public figures establish a joint initiative, tentatively called “Tadamon”, meaning solidarity, to strengthen regional ties and counter divisive rhetoric.
Emirati Voices Highlight Shared Gulf Bonds
Emirati businessman and social media commentator Marwan Al Sarkal echoed the calls for unity.
“Our Gulf is one, and our people are one. We remain one family, whether we agree or disagree. Our destiny and our blood are one,” he wrote.
Emirati social media user Saleh Al Shehhi also expressed affection for Saudi Arabia, recalling his experiences in the Kingdom.
“I have many cherished memories of Riyadh and its people, and of Saudi Arabia and its people,” he wrote, while praying for continued safety and security in both countries.
Al Shehhi also praised Saudi television presenter Turki Al Ajmah for encouraging positive public discussion and avoiding inflammatory arguments.
Sporting rivalries have also provided opportunities to reinforce the message of brotherhood.
Emirati poet Zayed Al Maisri used a football encounter between the UAE’s Al Ain and Saudi Arabia’s Al Hilal to highlight the importance of maintaining strong ties despite competition.
“There is no room between us for envy or gloating. We are brothers, and our brotherhood rests on strong foundations,” he wrote in verse.
UAE’s ‘Block Without Comment’ Initiative Returns to Focus
The latest appeals recall an earlier UAE initiative aimed at reducing offensive exchanges on social media.
The “Block without comment” initiative, launched by Sheikh Abdulla bin Mohammed bin Butti Al Hamed, encouraged users to block abusive accounts rather than respond to provocative posts and give them further attention.
The campaign targeted online insults, trolling and coordinated harassment, urging users not to fuel hostile exchanges.
In August 2025, the UAE Journalists Association brought the initiative to the Arab Youth Media Creativity Summit in Egypt, where it was adopted as part of efforts to promote responsible social media use.
The approach offered a practical response to online hostility: rather than engaging with accounts spreading insults or divisive messages, users could block them and move on.
Renewed Calls for Responsible Social Media Use
The latest messages from Emirati and Saudi public figures underline the importance of maintaining respectful conversations online, even when opinions differ.
Their appeals focus on the shared culture, friendships and family connections that link Gulf societies, warning against allowing online disputes to undermine longstanding relationships.
As calls for solidarity gain attention across the region, the “Block without comment” message has returned to the discussion, encouraging users to avoid amplifying hostility and to prioritise mutual respect.
