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UAE experts are warning of an expanding legal and ethical gray area as AI-generated material continues to overtake social media with viral trends like lifelike action figure photos and Studio Ghibli-style portraits. They caution that, despite their allure, these AI-powered images may be undermining artists’ rights and cultural legacy in their haste to innovate.
The rise of generative AI tools capable of replicating the distinctive styles of iconic studios and creators has raised questions about intellectual property, data privacy, and creative authenticity. In the UAE—a nation where artificial intelligence is a national priority—experts say the challenge lies in safeguarding creators without stifling technological progress.
“There’s an obvious threat to jobs, wages, and livelihoods as the perceived value of niche and bespoke art is diluted by oversaturation,” said Declan McGlynn, Chief Creative Officer at Voice-Swap AI, in an interview with Arabian Business.
A Legal Landscape Struggling to Keep Pace
The ambiguous legality surrounding AI-generated art is at the core of the problem. According to McGlynn, the intellectual property of companies like Studio Ghibli, whose mystique is strongly linked to workmanship and exclusivity, may lose value.
“The same logic applies to any music artist, film, or TV franchise that has built a unique sonic or visual identity. When their work is used without consent or compensation, the financial consequences are real,” he added.
With high-profile lawsuits such as The New York Times vs. OpenAI and the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) vs. AI music platforms Suno and Udio currently underway, legal precedents are being set that could shape the future of AI content globally.
In contrast, while some regions like the European Union have taken early steps with comprehensive regulations such as the AI Act, others—including the UAE—are still sculpting their legislative responses.
“The UAE is likely to follow suit with similar regulations, but a clear timeline hasn’t been announced,” said Marina El Hachem, Associate at BSA Law. “However, the legal groundwork is already being laid.”
UAE’s Legal Arsenal: Copyright and Data Protection Laws
In recent years, the UAE has updated its legal framework to adapt to a digital-first world. The Federal Law No. 38 of 2021 on Copyright and Neighbouring Rights, effective since January 2022, introduced clearer definitions and enforcement mechanisms for digital content ownership.
El Hachem emphasized that while the law wasn’t designed with AI in mind, its provisions offer stronger protections for creators operating in today’s AI-integrated environment.
Additionally, the Federal Decree-Law No. 45 of 2021 on Personal Data Protection created one of the most comprehensive data privacy frameworks in the region. It sets firm requirements for data controllers and processors and governs how personal data is shared across borders.
The UAE’s goal to dominate the world in AI is further demonstrated by the establishment of the Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Technology Council (AIATC) in January 2024. The council is in charge of developing plans for AI investment, infrastructure, and research across a variety of industries, including the creative economy.
Viral Trends, Real Privacy Risks
While social media is brimming with AI-generated selfies in fantasy styles, experts caution that these trends can have unintended consequences.
“Trends like the Studio Ghibli and action figure challenges may seem fun, but they often involve uploading photos that reveal much more than people realize,” said Santiago Pontiroli, Lead TRU Researcher at cybersecurity firm Acronis.
Photos uploaded for such trends can reveal facial features, geolocation data, and even device metadata—information that can be harvested and used to train AI models, often without user knowledge or consent.
“Most users don’t read the terms and conditions. By clicking ‘accept,’ they might unknowingly grant platforms the right to store, reuse, or even commercialize their likeness,” Pontiroli warned.
He emphasized the importance of transparency from tech companies and called for public awareness campaigns to educate users about potential risks.
Striking a Balance: Innovation Without Exploitation
Both McGlynn and El Hachem agree that the path forward requires a delicate balance—protecting artists while fostering innovation.
“AI thrives on data, but that doesn’t give it a free pass to exploit creative work,” El Hachem said. “Artists can take steps to safeguard their rights, like registering their work, using digital rights management tools, and negotiating licensing terms that exclude AI usage.”
McGlynn also called for ethical AI model development that includes fair compensation for artists whose work is used in training datasets.
“We don’t need to replace creativity—we need to empower it,” he said. “When AI tools are developed in collaboration with artists, and not at their expense, we’ll see a healthier creative ecosystem.”
UAE’s Measured, Strategic Approach
While jurisdictions like the EU and U.S. are making headlines with sweeping AI legislation, the UAE is opting for a more strategic, phased approach. Experts believe that as the regulatory landscape matures, the country will introduce AI-specific protections tailored to its creative and cultural goals.
“The UAE’s commitment to AI doesn’t have to come at the cost of its creative sector,” El Hachem noted. “What’s needed now is continued vigilance, public education, and clear legal structures that support innovation while preserving artistic heritage.”
As AI tools continue to redefine what’s possible in art and media, the UAE faces a crucial moment in balancing ambition with accountability. For artists, legal experts, and policymakers alike, the next chapter in AI regulation may determine not only the future of creative work—but the very soul of cultural expression in the digital age.
