Crypto Twitter Explodes After Influencer Claims Dubai Demanded Permit to Post

A viral tweet by crypto trader ElonTrades, founder of Signal Labs, has sparked fresh debate about the rapidly evolving rules governing social media content in the United Arab Emirates. The trader, who describes himself on X (formerly Twitter) as “Crypto since 2017” and known for identifying “asymmetric bets and where capital consolidates next,” recently claimed that he moved to Dubai to escape heavy regulations elsewhere, only to discover that posting online in the emirate may require official permits.Taking to his social media handle, he tweeted, “Moved to Dubai to not be strangled by regulations and bureaucracy. Am ordered to get a license and permit to post on social media (sic).” The complaint quickly gained traction on crypto Twitter and digital-nomad forums, with many debating whether the UAE, often marketed as a tax-friendly haven for entrepreneurs, is quietly tightening control over the influencer economy and online discourse.However, behind the viral tweet lies a complex intersection of digital media regulation, geopolitical tensions and the UAE’s efforts to professionalise the rapidly expanding creator economy.

The incident that triggered the ElonTrades vs UAE controversy

According to reports circulating online, the dispute began after ElonTrades posted a video of a major explosion at Fairmont The Palm, a luxury hotel on Dubai’s iconic Palm Jumeirah. The footage reportedly captured dramatic scenes during a period of heightened regional tensions following missile and drone attacks linked to the wider Iran vs US–Israel conflict affecting parts of the Gulf.The video quickly went viral, reportedly attracting over 1.7 million views on X but the popularity of the footage may also have drawn the attention of authorities. The trader later claimed that he was placed on a public prosecutor’s list for “publishing illegal content” and that his X account was subsequently blocked in the UAE. He also alleged that officials told him social-media creators in the country must obtain specific licences before publishing certain types of content.The claims immediately triggered widespread discussion online, with supporters arguing that such rules contradict Dubai’s reputation as a free-market innovation hub. However, experts say that the situation may reflect a misunderstanding of the country’s new digital advertising regulations, which came into force in 2026.

The new UAE social media permit explained

Starting February 01, 2026, the UAE introduced a mandatory Advertiser Permit for anyone publishing promotional content on social media. The permit was introduced under updated media regulations designed to regulate digital advertising and improve transparency in the influencer industry.Under the rules:

The policy applies not just to paid brand collaborations but also to certain forms of unpaid promotions, such as gifting campaigns or affiliate marketing. Authorities say the goal is to ensure that the fast-growing digital advertising ecosystem operates with the same standards applied to traditional media.

Why the UAE and other governments are regulating influencers

The UAE is not alone in tightening oversight of social-media content. Around the world, governments have begun introducing regulations targeting influencers, digital advertisers and online content creators. Authorities argue that the explosive growth of social media has blurred the line between personal expression and commercial advertising. In many cases, influencers promote products without clearly disclosing sponsorships, potentially misleading consumers.The UAE’s new permit system aims to:

Legal analysts say the policy reflects the emirates’ broader strategy to regulate fast-growing digital industries without stifling economic growth.

Dubai: A billion-dollar influencer economy

Dubai has become one of the world’s biggest hubs for social-media influencers, digital entrepreneurs and crypto traders. With zero personal income tax and business-friendly policies, the city has attracted thousands of creators, YouTubers and online entrepreneurs over the past decade. According to industry estimates, the UAE’s influencer marketing sector could reach nearly $100 million by 2030, driven by tourism, luxury brands and global advertising campaigns.However, with that rapid growth has come new challenges:

Regulators worldwide have begun scrutinising influencers, particularly in sectors like cryptocurrency where financial risks are high.

Crypto influencers under increasing scrutiny

The controversy surrounding ElonTrades also highlights the increasing scrutiny facing crypto influencers. Over the past few years, regulators in the US, Europe and Asia have cracked down on influencers who promote digital assets without disclosing paid sponsorships or financial interests.In some cases, influencers have faced lawsuits or penalties for promoting projects that later collapsed. Dubai has simultaneously positioned itself as a global crypto hub, hosting blockchain companies, exchanges and venture funds but authorities have also emphasised that financial promotions must comply with regulatory guidelines designed to protect investors. For crypto traders with large social-media followings, this creates a complex regulatory environment.

The free speech debate in UAE

The ElonTrades controversy has also sparked a broader debate about online expression during crises. During periods of geopolitical tension, authorities in many countries tighten controls on information sharing to prevent misinformation or panic. In the UAE, officials warned residents not to share unverified videos or rumours about missile attacks and other security incidents during the recent regional conflict.Violating such rules could potentially result in heavy fines or even imprisonment, particularly if content spreads panic or misinformation. Critics argue that such policies risk limiting free expression. Supporters counter that they are necessary to maintain stability and prevent the spread of false information during emergencies.For Dubai, the challenge is maintaining its reputation as a global business hub while also regulating the digital economy. The city’s leadership has long marketed it as a place where entrepreneurs, investors and innovators can thrive with minimal bureaucracy. At the same time, the rapid rise of social media and influencer marketing has created an entirely new economic sector that governments are still learning how to regulate. Experts say that Dubai’s approach reflects a broader global trend of treating influencers not as hobbyists but as professional advertisers.

The reality behind ElonTrades’ viral tweet

While ElonTrades framed the permit requirement as excessive bureaucracy, legal experts say the regulation is not aimed at ordinary personal posts. Instead, it primarily targets commercial content and advertising activities. In most cases, individuals sharing personal experiences or opinions on social media are unlikely to need licences.However, creators who monetise their platforms, through brand deals, affiliate marketing or paid promotions, may fall under the new rules. For professional influencers and crypto traders promoting products or services, compliance with the permit system is now essential.The viral tweet may have started as a complaint from a frustrated crypto trader but the reaction it sparked highlights a larger shift taking place across the global Internet. As social media evolves into a multi-billion-dollar advertising ecosystem, governments are increasingly stepping in to regulate it.From influencer licensing in Dubai to stricter disclosure rules in the US and Europe, the era of unregulated digital promotion is rapidly coming to an end. For creators, traders and influencers, the clear message is that social media may feel like a free space but in today’s world, it is also a regulated industry.

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Wednesday imposed a life ban on three academics, holding them responsible for “projecting a negative image of judiciary” by mentioning “corruption in judiciary” in the class 8 NCERT textbook. The court also said it would take stringent action against social media “mischief mongers” who endorsed the objectionable content to malign the judiciary.After banning the three academics from any assignment with the govt or govt-aided institutions or projects, a bench of CJI Surya Kant, Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M Pancholi ordered that the Union govt identify the “social media mischief mongers”. NCERT director Dinesh Prasad Saklani and school education secretary Sanjay Kumar tendered an unconditional and unqualified apology to the SC for the “major and unpardonable lapse” and promised preventive steps against such lapses in future. NCERT said the controversial chapter was drafted by Textbook Development Team (TDT) under the chairmanship of Prof Michel Danino and comprised Suparna Diwakar and Alok Prasanna Kumar. These three will not be associated with any activity of NCERT in future, it said. These three “either had no reasonable knowledge about the judiciary or deliberately and knowingly misrepresented facts to project a negative image of Indian judiciary before students of class eight (who are) at an impressionable age”, said the bench.

Academics can seek modification of order by approaching us with an explanation: SC

The Supreme Court has directed all govts and institutions receiving govt funds to immediately cut ties with the three academicians, whom the court held responsible for “projecting a negative image of the judiciary”, but allowed them the option to seek a modification of the order.“We see no reason as to why these kinds of persons should be associated in any manner for the purpose of framing of curriculum or finalisation of textbook for the children,” it further said while directing Centre, states and Union territories, universities and public institutions receiving govt funds “to forthwith disassociate with these three persons and not assign any responsibility which involves public funds either fully or partially”.Leaving a window open for the three to seek modification of the order, the bench said the three can do so by approaching SC with an explanation for drafting the chapter “The Role of Judiciary in Our Society”, which contained the controversial reference to “corruption” in the institution.The bench took strong exception to certain social media platforms, websites and individuals defending the reference to alleged corruption in judiciary in the NCERT textbook. It said, “After the Feb 26 order (which banned the circulation of the entire textbook) was passed, some elements of the so-called social media have acted and reacted irresponsibly. We firmly believe in catching the bull by its horns. We direct the Union govt to identify such sites, the persons running those sites and furnish their full details to enable us to take suitable action. The law must take its own course against mischief mongers.”Solicitor general Tushar Mehta said Newton’s law “for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction” has been redefined by social media which believes that for “every action, there is a disproportionate and idiotic overreaction”. The bench clarified that its Feb 26 and today’s orders “are not intended to prevent objective and legitimate criticism of the institutional functioning of the judiciary. The judiciary, like any other institution, suffers from deficiencies and if an expert committee highlights such deficiencies, it will be a welcome step for the future generation of this nation, including the future judges and practitioners, and offer an avenue for present stakeholders to take correctional steps”.But SC disapproved of NCERT’s stand that the controversial chapter on judiciary has been “duly rewritten” after the controversy for incorporation in the textbook. The bench said that NCERT through “one after the other hasty acts” is making the issue more complex and impeding transparent and dispassionate information on judiciary from being disseminated to students.Mehta assured the court that “nothing of the earlier chapter four on judiciary” would be incorporated in the new textbook. The bench said the National Syllabus and Teaching Learning Material Committee does not even include a jurist or a person from legal field and expressed surprise that the draft of the controversial chapter was not approved by NSTC prior to its inclusion in the textbook.It said the revised version of the controversial chapter would not be incorporated in the textbook unless approved by a committee of domain experts, which must include a former judge, eminent academician and a renowned law practitioner. “It shall be appreciated if a committee of domain experts to be constituted by the Union govt within one week also associates National Judicial Academy, Bhopal, for finalising the legal studies curriculum proposed by NCERT for not only class 8 but the higher classes,” said the bench.

Actor Govinda made headlines in 2024 after he accidentally shot himself in the leg with his licensed revolver. The incident led to him being rushed to hospital, and he was later discharged in a wheelchair. As part of his recovery, the veteran star underwent physiotherapy. Now, his physiotherapist, Dr Surabhi Dhanwala, has spoken about his health and the personal struggles he has faced during this period.Surabhi recalled the time she treated the actor. “Govinda had recently shot himself in the leg accidentally. It was around that time that I gave him therapy.” She further added, “He is a very strong personality. I have met him before the accident and even after it. He is extremely disciplined, he wakes up early, practices yoga, and maintains a routine. He is like a big brother to me. He had bruised his thighs,” she said in an interview with Galatta India.

She also addressed the ongoing speculation surrounding Govinda’s personal life and the rumours of a separation from his wife, Sunita Ahuja. Surabhi clarified that she never met Sunita during the treatment period as she was not present for the physiotherapy sessions.“I have never met Sunita Ahuja, she was not present during the sessions. He is a very strong fighter, and I am sure he will fix his personal life issues as well,” she said. She added that the constant attention on his private life does affect him, but he relies on spirituality to cope. “He is in pain, but his strength lies in meditation. He meditates for hours. He is very spiritual and God-fearing. He knows how to fight his own battles.”In the past, Sunita has publicly accused Govinda of being involved with a Marathi actress, with certain reports claiming the actress to be Komal. When asked about these allegations and Sunita’s recent comments, Govinda chose not to respond directly.Speaking to Siddharth Kannan, he said, “I feel that when someone begins to display their pain publicly, and yet there is a certain glow on their face, you begin to wonder if the eyes are slipping from the truth. Sometimes, people may appear very honest, but their loyalty lies somewhere else. By discussing such things, I might end up embarrassing someone, and I’m not the kind of person who want to do that.”More recently, their daughter Tina Ahuja also addressed the rumours about her parents’ relationship during an appearance in Sunita’s vlog. “Two years have not been great. There has been turbulence,” Tina said.Sunita, who was also part of the vlog, spoke about focusing on herself at this stage of life. “Everything must be done within limits. I have done all my duties, but at this point I have started living for myself. I deserve more than this. Now I will live my life king-size.”After the accidental shooting in 2024, Govinda had addressed the incident during a press conference once he was discharged from hospital. Explaining what had happened, he said, “Initially, I couldn’t believe it had happened. It is a deep wound, and I was in complete shock. I kept wondering, ‘What just occurred?’ I was getting ready to leave for a show in Kolkata. It was early in the morning, around 4:45–5 am. The revolver fell and misfired. I was stunned, and when I looked down, there was a fountain of blood.”

The business value of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is quickly rising, and now another big financial development has come to light amid the ongoing sale process of the RCB. Sanjiv Goenka-headed RP-SG Group is exploring the possibility of selling a minority stake in its franchise, Lucknow Super Giants.

The Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) made their IPL debut in 2022 after the RP-Sanjiv Goenka Group won the bid with a record-breaking bid of ₹7,090 crore. They had a terrific start, qualifying for the playoffs in their debut season and 2023, but finished 7th in the last two seasons.

Sanjiv Goenka plans big move as Lucknow Super Giants stake sale talks begin

Following the team’s struggles in IPL 2025, Sanjiv Goenka has decided to make a big call. As reported by Moneycontrol, the RP-SG Group is considering selling up to 15 percent ownership in the LSG. However, the final decision will depend on the valuation offered by investors, and Goenka may step back if the offers are not attractive enough.

Your daily dose of cricket!

Read Also: Suresh Raina-MS Dhoni reunion cancelled! CSK deny coaching position to Chinna Thala

This move has come at a time when many investors are showing strong interest in IPL franchises. Recently, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru and the Rajasthan Royals have created a huge buzz in the sports business market. A consortium involving the Aditya Birla Group and American sports investor David Blitzer has reportedly joined the race to buy a major stake in Rajasthan Royals.

RCB and Rajasthan Royals in big demand

The majority stake currently held by entrepreneur Manoj Badale is being discussed at a valuation of around $1 billion to $1.2 billion. At the same time, the possible sale of the RCB by Diageo has attracted several powerful bidders. Among the interested names are billionaire Adar Poonawalla from the Serum Group, Ranjan Pai of the Manipal Group, Swedish private equity giant EQT, and Avram Glazer-backed Lancer Capital for the defending champions.

The IPL has now become one of the most valuable sports leagues in the world, standing only behind the National Football League in terms of overall value. Its media rights for the 2023-2027 cycle were sold for around $6.2 billion, which highlights the massive financial power of the IPL.

Strong revenue but heavy financial commitments for LSG

According to financial reports, the RP-SG Group received around ₹399 crore from the BCCI as franchise rights revenue in the first half of FY26, while it had received ₹458 crore in FY25. This payment from the BCCI is the biggest revenue source for most IPL teams.

Read Also: MS Dhoni OUT of CSK Playing XI? Kasi Viswanathan drops bomb ahead of IPL 2026

In the first half of FY26, the Lucknow franchise reported total revenue of about ₹495.9 crore and posted a profit of around ₹63.7 crore. During FY25, the revenue dropped by around 20 percent to ₹557 crore mainly because fewer matches were played and the team finished lower in the points table in the 2024 season compared to 2023.

Annual franchise fee leaves LSG worried

Their profitability also declined during that period. However, in the first half of FY26, the revenue showed a slight improvement of about 3 percent compared to the same period of FY25. Despite the strong revenue numbers, the franchise also carries heavy financial obligations.

The RP-SG Group has to pay an annual franchise fee of around ₹709 crore until FY31. For FY26, the payment is expected to come from a mix of term loans, increased working capital facilities, and internal funds from the promoters.

CareEdge said, “For FY26, the payment is expected to be made from a mix of term debt, enhancement in working capital facilities, and internal generations/fund support from promoters. The company’s capital structure is leveraged with an overall gearing ratio of 16x as of March 31, 2025. Total outside liabilities to total net worth is even higher at 41x as of March 31, 2025, due to high franchise fees payable to BCCI.”

The United States will co-host the 2026 FIFA World Cup alongside Canada and Mexico. (Image credit: X)

NEW DELHI: Iran’s sports minister Ahmad Donyamali said on Wednesday that the country cannot participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup after the United States killed Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, according to a report by Al Jazeera citing Reuters.“Considering that this corrupt regime [the US] has assassinated our leader, under no circumstances can we participate in the World Cup,” Ahmad Donyamali told state television on Wednesday, according to the report.

The latest round of conflict between Israel and the United States on one side and Iran on the other began on February 28. The West Asia conflict has also disrupted global energy supply chains.Ahmad Donyamali said the conditions required for participation in the FIFA World Cup do not exist.“Our children are not safe and, fundamentally, such conditions for participation do not exist. Given the malicious actions they have carried out against Iran, they have forced two wars on us over eight or nine months and have killed and martyred thousands of our people. Therefore, we certainly cannot have such a presence,” Donyamali said, according to the Al Jazeera report citing Reuters.The United States will co-host the 2026 FIFA World Cup alongside Canada and Mexico. The tournament will feature 104 matches, beginning at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City on June 11 and culminating at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, with the final on July 19.All of Iran’s group-stage fixtures are scheduled to be played in American cities, including Los Angeles and Seattle.Donyamali’s remarks came after Gianni Infantino, president of FIFA, said in an Instagram post on Wednesday that Iran’s participation in the World Cup would be welcomed by US President Donald Trump.“President Trump reiterated that the Iranian team is, of course, welcome to compete in the tournament in the United States,” Gianni Infantino said in the social media post.Earlier, Mehdi Taj, president of the Football Federation of the Islamic Republic of Iran (FFIRI), also questioned Iran’s participation in the tournament following the recent attacks, saying it would be difficult for the country to approach the competition with optimism.“After this attack [on Iran], we cannot be expected to look forward to the World Cup with hope. If the World Cup is like this, who in their right mind would send their national team to a place like this?” Taj said on Iranian state television.