UAE blocks over 14,000 illegal sports streaming sites during 2026 FIFA World Cup
The UAE blocked 14,122 websites, applications and other online endpoints involved in illegally streaming sports content during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The operation was conducted through InstaBlock, the Ministry of Economy and Tourism’s rapid response system designed to combat digital piracy and protect broadcasting rights.
Of the blocked targets, 9,595 were internet domains and 4,527 were IP addresses. Authorities used rapid detection technologies and coordinated with government agencies and local economic departments to identify and disable infringing services.
Enforcement also extended beyond online platforms. Authorities conducted more than 370 inspections of commercial establishments, particularly cafés and restaurants showing World Cup matches. Inspectors identified 287 businesses that were using unauthorised broadcasts or otherwise failing to comply with intellectual property and sports broadcasting regulations.
The campaign represents part of a much broader UAE effort against sports piracy. Since InstaBlock was launched in February 2025, authorities say it has blocked 68,401 websites and applications associated with illegal sports broadcasting. The number of blocked platforms has risen sharply, from 1,132 in 2023 to 4,557 in 2024 and approximately 21,000 in 2025.
Artificial intelligence plays an important role in the enforcement system. According to the Ministry, InstaBlock can identify and disable an infringing website within 10 to 15 minutes after receiving a complaint from a rights holder.
The system operates in cooperation with the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority, Spain’s LaLiga and Eurostar Multimedia. This collaboration allows copyright owners and authorities to respond quickly when unauthorised streams appear during major sporting events.
UAE officials say protecting broadcasting rights is important not only for copyright enforcement but also for supporting sports and creative industries and maintaining confidence among international rights holders. The initiative forms part of the country’s broader intellectual property strategy and its We the UAE 2031 economic objectives.
