UAE Media Council Registration – Complete Guide

The UAE has introduced Federal Decree-Law No. (55) of 2023 Concerning Media Regulation, making registration with the UAE Media Council mandatory for all media activities across the country, including free zones. This regulation applies to traditional media, digital platforms, influencers, advertisers, and gaming companies, ensuring compliance with strict media and advertising content standards.

Who Needs to Register?

Companies or Individuals having any of the following activities on their license or conducting such activities are required to register with the UAE Media Council. This covers:

1. Media institutions and establishments – TV, radio, print, online publications, production houses, and digital platforms.

2. Gaming companies – Developers, publishers, and distributors of video games and arcade games.

3. Content creators and influencers – Individuals producing promotional or advertising content on social media.

4. Advertisers – Any person or business promoting products or services to UAE audiences.

Definition of Media Activity under UAE Law

This includes any activity related to the production, transmission, distribution, printing, publishing, broadcasting and sending of media content, whether it is read, audio, visual or digital, and making it available to the public through the media outlets.

Any individual or Company undertaking any of the following media activities:

1. Radio and television broadcasting including Internet Protocol Television (IPTV), over-the-top (OTT) or video on demand (VOD).

2. Video game and arcade game services (Interactive and non-interactive) that are developed and distributed within the State.

3. Films and showings of artistic works

4. Newspapers and Publications

5. Book Fairs

6. Electronic and digital media activities.

7. Photography activities.

Media Content Standards

All content must comply with the UAE Media Council content guidelines, which include:

• Respecting religion, governance, cultural heritage, and public morals.

• Avoiding false, misleading, or exaggerated claims.

• Not harming national unity, social cohesion, or foreign relations.

• Prohibiting incitement to violence, hate, or illegal acts.

• Respecting privacy and intellectual property rights.

Advertising and Publicity Rules

The Terms of Advertising and Publicity set additional requirements:

• Advertisements must be clear, factual, and separate from editorial content.

• No false, misleading, or disparaging statements.

• No promotion of alcohol, tobacco, or prohibited narcotics.

• Respect UAE symbols, flag, and national anthem.

• Disclose any paid partnerships or endorsements.

• Obtain prior approval for certain sectors:

  • Real estate

  • Financial services & securities

  • Food products

  • Education services

  • Healthcare products & services

Registration Fees

• Companies: AED 5,000 per year.

• Individuals: Free for the first 3 years, AED 1,000 annually thereafter.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

• Fines: AED 1,000 to AED 1 million (doubled for repeat offences, up to AED 2 million).

• Other penalties: Warnings, temporary or permanent closure, licence or permit cancellation, content removal.

FAQ:

1. Do I need to register if I only run a YouTube channel? Yes. If your channel produces content for UAE audiences—whether for entertainment, education, or advertising—you must register with the UAE Media Council.

   
   

2. Are freelancers or self-employed individuals required to register? Yes. Anyone conducting media activities aimed at UAE audiences, even without a company setup, must obtain registration.

   
   

3. What happens if I don’t register? Failure to comply with UAE media regulations can result in heavy fines, closure of your media activity, or cancellation of your business licence.

Mitraa’s experienced team can assist you in completing your UAE Media Council registration smoothly and efficiently, ensuring full compliance with the latest media regulations.