The Dubai Government Media Office runs an official WhatsApp channel for announcements from the Dubai government. This guide shows how to follow it, how to turn on alerts, and how to avoid fake channels that copy official names.
Key points
- The Media Office invited the public to follow its channel in March 2026, describing it as news “directly from the source”.
- Official link: whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaETrkh002T3Qhj1Qp0m
- A WhatsApp channel is one-way: you receive updates, and the owner cannot see your number or read your messages.
How to follow the channel
- Open the official link above on your phone. It opens in WhatsApp.
- Check the channel name and the verified tick, then tap Follow.
- Find it later in the Updates tab, under Channels.
- Tap the bell icon in the channel if you want notifications for new posts.
Why follow it
Government announcements often spread first as forwarded screenshots, which lose context and sometimes get altered. Following the source directly lets you check a claim against the original post. It pairs well with our guides on verifying news before you share it and spotting fake government messages.
Real channel or copycat: quick comparison
| Check | Genuine channel | Warning sign |
|---|---|---|
| How you found it | Link from the Media Office’s own verified social accounts | Link forwarded in a group chat or sent by a stranger |
| Name and badge | Exact official name with the verified tick | Near-identical name, no tick |
| What it posts | Government announcements and news updates | Offers, giveaways, “urgent” fines or payment links |
| What it asks of you | Nothing: you only receive updates | Payment, Emirates ID number, one-time passcode or an app install |
How to avoid fake channels
- Use the link from the Media Office’s own verified social accounts, not one forwarded in a group chat.
- Look for the verified tick next to the channel name. Copycats often use near-identical names without it.
- No genuine government channel will ask you to pay, share an Emirates ID number or one-time passcode, or install an app.
- If a post looks urgent or alarming, confirm it on a second official channel before acting or forwarding it.
Before you forward a message
- Look for the same announcement on the official channel. If it is not there, treat it as unconfirmed.
- Check the date. Old announcements are often recirculated as if they were new.
- Be wary of screenshots with no link back to the source.
- Do not tap links in unexpected messages that claim to be from a government body.
If you also want to limit what unknown senders can send you, see our guide to WhatsApp strict account settings, and for a simple routine when a message feels off, read the stop, verify, act guide to online scams.
Frequently asked questions
Can the Media Office see my phone number?
No. A WhatsApp channel is one-way: followers receive updates, and the owner cannot see your number or read your messages.
Where do I find a channel I follow?
In the Updates tab of WhatsApp, under Channels.
What if I already tapped a suspicious link?
Do not enter any details. If you did share a one-time passcode or card details, contact your bank immediately and report the message through official channels.
