Someone posted content damaging your reputation on X, Snapchat or a WhatsApp group, or you are accused of defamation over a post? Defamation is a crime in Saudi Arabia, and most cases today are online, punished under the Anti-Cyber Crime Law.
| Act | Penalty | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Defaming others and causing them harm through information technology | Up to one year's prison and a fine of up to SAR 500,000, or either | Article 3, Anti-Cyber Crime Law |
| With an aggravating circumstance (organised gang, abuse of public office, similar prior convictions) | Not less than half the maximum | Article 8 |
| If it accuses someone of zina (qadhf) | The hadd of qadhf, eighty lashes, when its conditions are met | Quran 24:4 |
Reviewed by: Ahmed Hasan AlShehriAttorney at USUS Law FirmLast updated:
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Proving defamation
- Keep the post as it is: a full screenshot showing account name, date and link.
- Note who saw or shared it.
- Do not reply with a similar post.
- Report through Kollona Amn or the police.
- Claim compensation for the harm.
Frequently asked questions
What is the penalty for defamation in Saudi Arabia?
Defaming others and causing them harm through information technology: up to one year's prison and a fine of up to SAR 500,000, or either (Article 3 of the Anti-Cyber Crime Law).
Is defamation on WhatsApp a crime?
Yes, WhatsApp and its groups are information technology means covered by Article 3.
Usus Law Firm handles defamation and cybercrime cases. See our defamation and insults guide and criminal lawyer in Riyadh.
Legal review: the Usus Law Firm team
A select team of lawyers and legal advisers licensed by the Saudi Ministry of Justice, working from Riyadh and Tabuk, with experience before the general, commercial, labor, criminal, personal status and administrative courts. Every article is reviewed before publication and updated when laws or regulations change.
Last reviewed: 28 October 2026
This article is general legal information and is not a substitute for advice on your specific case. Court proceedings in Saudi Arabia are in Arabic; the official Arabic text of each law prevails.
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