Saudi comedian Nasser al-Qassabi, better known for his satirical TV show "Selfie" that made waves in June for making fun of ISIS, congratulated the UAE for issuing the new law against discrimination and hate crimes:
"Congratulations to the UAE on issuing the law to combat discrimination and hate. A big step for civilization and a great decision at the right time. Hoping for something similar for us!!"
The new law also applies to online media, and failure to abide by it can lead to a 6 to 10 months jail sentence as well as paying fines ranging from 500,000 to 2 million dirhams. A week before, an Australian Abu Dhabi resident was deported for posting a picture of a car and writing "bad words" on her Facebook account.
The comedian took the opportunity to warn Saudis in Dubai about the new law in his usual humourous tone:
"Urgent! To all Saudis in Dubai, after the new law to combat discrimination, you better watch out for what you say! One word out of line can get you in jail for a month."
A little crass or just the right dose of humor?