Popular crypto trader quietly leaves Dubai as Iran war looms
Dubai has long positioned itself as a global hub for crypto founders, traders, and influencers.
But as the conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran intensifies, authorities have tightened rules around online content.
The rules are not sitting well with some content creators. Among them is a popular crypto trader known online as ElonTrades, who revealed this week that he had left the United Arab Emirates.
UAE tightens rules on content creators
Starting Feb. 1, 2026, the UAE implemented stricter regulations for online creators and advertisers.
Under the new rules, influencers must obtain an Advertiser Permit, often referred to as an influencer e-media permit, as well as a commercial trade license to legally operate.
The policy effectively treats content creation as a formal commercial activity rather than a hobby.
Authorities had announced the regulations in 2025 and offered a grace period until Jan. 31, 2026, for creators to comply. Since then, officials have also warned against posting unverified information about the ongoing conflict.
Dubai authorities issued early warnings after the first missile strikes, urging residents not to share old videos or misleading images online. The Dubai Media Office said such content could create confusion and misinformation during a sensitive period.
Under Article 52 of UAE Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021 on Combating Rumors and Cybercrimes, spreading false news or information contradicting official sources can carry serious penalties.
Individuals found guilty could face at least one year in prison and a fine of 100,000 dirhams (approx. $27,224), with harsher penalties if posts are deemed to incite public unrest.
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Authorities have already begun enforcing the rules. Recently, a 60-year-old British tourist was reportedly arrested after allegedly filming Iranian missiles over Dubai and posting the footage online.
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Crypto trader recounts missile strikes and investigation
ElonTrades shared a dramatic account of his time in Dubai on X on March 9.
“Moved to Dubai a month ago… then two drones exploded next to our building,” he wrote on X.
According to the trader, his situation worsened after he posted a video showing a fire at the Fairmont hotel, which he said gained 1.7 million views.
The video reportedly placed him third on a list maintained by the UAE public prosecutor for “publishing illegal content,” he said, adding that his X account was later blocked within the country.
He also described that he spent a week hiding in the basement as missiles and drones struck parts of the city.
Quiet escape through Oman
The trader ultimately decided to leave after what he described as escalating attacks near key landmarks, including Marina 23 and the Dubai airport.
He detailed an overnight escape from the UAE to Oman.
His journey reportedly began around midnight, when he boarded a van to the UAE border. From there, he said he crossed into “no man’s land” before transferring to a bus entering Oman.
Finally, two small sedans transported him, his wife, baby and their belongings to Muscat, where he boarded a flight out of the Gulf region.
