17 June 2025, Tue |
11:36 AM
New UAE Media laws introduce fines up to AED 1M for unlicensed content. Learn how to stay compliant with publishing, podcasting, and media rules.
If you’re in media, publishing, or content creation in the UAE, this is big.
The UAE has rolled out a new framework that brings sharper clarity to what’s allowed in media, and what isn’t. From hefty fines to stricter licensing, these updates are reshaping the way media works across the Emirates.
Let’s break it down.
With digital content growing fast, the UAE is pushing for more responsible media practices. The goal? Clear rules. Smarter regulation. And a media space that reflects national values while supporting creativity.
New Cabinet Decisions introduce detailed penalties and updated licensing structures for everyone in the media game.
This includes individuals, institutions, and digital platforms, even those in free zones.
This is where things get serious. For the first time, violations are sorted into 20 categories across four severity levels, First Degree (least serious) to Fourth Degree (most severe).
Fines range from AED 5,000 to AED 1,000,000.
Here’s what could land you in trouble:
Each case will be assessed based on its impact, media, economic, political, and social.
Beyond content, the UAE has also outlined strict penalties for improper or unlicensed media operations. If you’re running a media platform, studio, or even social media content business, read this carefully:
Here is the revised version with the bullet points removed:
Operating media activity without a license
First time: AED 10,000
Second time: AED 40,000 + administrative closure if not fixed in 30 days
Running additional media activities without approval
First time: AED 5,000
Second time: AED 16,000 + possible closure after 30 days
Not renewing your license within 30 days of expiry
AED 150 per day, capped at AED 3,000
Providing false or misleading information for licensing
AED 5,000 (doubles for repeat offenses)
Producing/distributing media without a license
AED 20,000 (doubles for repeat offenses)
Modifying approved content without getting prior approval
AED 20,000 (doubles for repeat offenses)
Not updating your business or contact details
AED 10,000 (doubles if not corrected within 30 days)
Posting sponsored or unpaid content on social media without a permit
First time: Written warning
Second time: AED 20,000
Third time: AED 50,000 (doubles for more violations)
Publishing after your permit has expired
First time: AED 20,000
Second time: AED 10,000 (doubles for repeat offenses)
Running ads without approval or ignoring ad guidelines
AED 10,000 (doubles for repeat violations)
For the complete list of violations and penalties, head over to the National Media Council’s official website.
A new body called the Committee for Violations of Media Content Standards will handle that. The committee will decide the penalties based on severity and societal impact. They’ll evaluate violations and match them to the right category and fine.
These decisions mark a major moment for UAE Media. The new rules bring structure, transparency, and accountability to a fast-evolving industry.
Whether you’re a journalist, vlogger, podcaster, or running a digital platform, compliance is no longer optional.
These updates ensure that freedom of expression and cultural responsibility can grow side by side. Media professionals now have clearer expectations and stronger guidance on what’s acceptable, and what’s not.
The UAE is moving toward a more ethical, secure, and future-ready media ecosystem. With clearer laws and better oversight, media professionals are now better equipped to create responsibly, without crossing red lines.
Stay updated. Stay licensed. Stay compliant.
