FAQ

The UAE Media Council's main headquarters is situated in Abu Dhabi, with a secondary office located in Dubai Media City.

• Coordinating with government media entities across the UAE to ensure alignment of strategic media directions and unified public messaging at both the federal and local levels.
• Aligning national and local media policies in coordination with government media entities to support the Union and reinforce the concepts of national identity and unity.
• Proposing legislation, regulations, standards, and criteria necessary for the organization and licensing of media outlets and media activities, including electronic media and publishing, encompassing those operating in free zones.
• Monitoring media content across all materials printed, published, or broadcast within the country, including within free zones.
• Conducting specialized studies and research in areas related to the Council’s mandates.
• Registering and accrediting journalists and foreign media correspondents operating in the UAE, including those in free zones.
• Establishing and managing a comprehensive information and data system related to the Council’s responsibilities, in coordination with relevant authorities.
• Assuming the media-related responsibilities previously assigned to the Ministry of Culture and Youth under Federal Law No. 15 of 1985 concerning Publications and Publishing, or any legislation replacing it.
• Carrying out any other responsibilities assigned by law or by a resolution from the Cabinet.

To provide a comprehensive regulatory environment that supports the development of the media sector and enhances its impact as a competitive economic industry—through enabling legislation, supportive policies, modern infrastructure, investment in nurturing a new generation of local media talent, and promoting media content to expand its regional and global presence.

To lead the media sector by creating an advanced, enabling, and attractive environment grounded in the values and principles of the United Arab Emirates.

1. Licensing of Media Activities, which includes:
   • Issuing media licenses for magazines and newspapers.
   • Reserving names for magazines or newspapers.
   • Issuing permits for ground or aerial filming.
   • Granting permits to import photography and filming equipment.
   • Issuing licenses for radio and television broadcasting.
2. Approvals for Circulation of Media Materials, which includes:
   • Regulating the entry of media materials through the country’s borders.
   • Approving the circulation of newspapers and magazines.
   • Issuing printing permits and circulation approvals for publications and written materials.
   • Approving the circulation of artistic works.

• Developing a competitive legislative environment that keeps pace with technological advancements and rapid transformations.
• Enabling the growth and prosperity of the media industry in the country.
• Enhancing the media’s contribution to the national economy.
• Solidifying the UAE’s position on the global media map.

Those wishing to stay in touch may email us at media@uaemc.gov.ae, submitting a request to have their email address added to our distribution list in order to receive all press releases.

Kindly reach out to us at 80082362, and we will provide the necessary assistance regarding participation in the Council's events.

Licenses and permits for media activities are issued either by the UAE Media Council or by the Competent Authority — defined as the relevant local government body responsible for licensing, supervising and monitoring media activities—depending on the jurisdiction. This follows the provisions and conditions outlined in the Media Regulation Law and its Executive Regulation.

The general procedures for obtaining a licence or permit to engage in media activities include submitting an application to either the UAE Media Council or the Competent Authority, complying with the applicable conditions and regulations, and paying the prescribed fees.

Applications must be submitted through approved electronic channels and supported by all required documents. Specific procedures may vary depending on the nature and type of the media activity.

The law regulates 8 categories of media activities, as follows:

1. Radio and television broadcasting, including Internet Protocol Television (IPTV), Over-the-Top (OTT) services, and Video on Demand (VOD)
2. Video game and arcade game services (both interactive and non-interactive) developed and distributed in the UAE (for trade and sale).
3. Films and screening of other artistic works
4. Newspapers and publications
5. Book fairs
6. Electronic and digital media activities
7. Photography activities
8. Additional media activities specified by the Executive Regulation, including:

8.1. Media and advertising consulting and studies

8.2. Design and production of advertisements

8.3. Distribution, publication, trade and sale of audio-visual recordings

To obtain a licence for radio or television broadcasting, applicants must meet the following conditions:

1. Adherence to media content standards.
2. Frequency allocation and approval from the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA).
3. Specification of the channel or station name, headquarters and broadcast language
4. Submission of information about the channel owner and staff, including their professional background and relevant experience.
5. Provision of programming plans for the channel or station.
6. Fulfilment of any additional requirements set by the licensing authority.

1. Adherence to media content standards.
2. Adherence to the frequency allocated and approved by the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA)
3. Maintenance of a complete record of all broadcast programmes for a minimum period of (12) months.
4. Display of the station’s logo during all broadcasts.
5. Respect for literary, artistic and intellectual property rights.
6. Compliance with instructions issued by the relevent authorities during times of emergency and crisis.

A licence is required to engage in the trade and sale of video games, including interactive and non-interactive arcade games, that are developed and distributed within the UAE

1. Adherence to age classification standards.
2. Adherence to media content standards.

1. Licensing of companies engaged in the design and production of electronic games.
2. Implementation of an approval framework for electronic video games.
3. Licensing for the distribution of digital versions of electronic games on devices.

1. Submission of a valid licence to practice media activities.
2. Provision of a script licence for artistic works (including plays and films), which requires:
   2.1. Submission of the application by the individual in whose name the licence will be issued or by their legal representative.
   2.2. Attachment of an electronic copy of the script (film or theatrical).
   2.3. Submission of any additional documents or materials as specified by the UAE Media Council.

Entities licensed to screen films and other artistic works are required to comply with the following obligations:

1. Adherence to media content standards.
2. Refraining from listing films in screening schedules or offering tickets for sale prior to obtaining the necessary approval from the UAE Media Council.
3. Prohibition of the distribution of films before their official screening in cinemas.
4. Prohibition of the distribution of films and other artistic works in any public or private venue accessible to the public without prior authorisation from the UAE Media Council.

1. Establishment of multiple categories for cinema licensing based on the number of screens:
   1. Category 1: Licence to establish a cinema with six (6) or more screens.
   2. Category 2: Licence to establish a cinema with one (1) to five (5) screens.
2. Reduction of cinema licensing fees for small companies operating no more than five screens.
3. Introduction of a dedicated package for the approval of foreign films.
4. Creation of a permit for displaying advertisements inside cinemas.
5. Launch of an urgent film follow-up service for expedited approvals.
6. Exemption of local films from approval fees.
7. Introduction of a one-day cinema screening permit, covering special events such as sports matches, concerts and similar occasions.
8. Exemption from screening fees for embassies, consulates, cultural clubs and government institutions.
9. Exemption from script licence fees for theatrical and film scripts related to local works.

• First-Class Cinema: A cinema with six or more screens.
• Second-Class Cinema: A cinema with one to five screens.
• Temporary Cinema: A cinema that operates for a limited period, not exceeding thirty continuous or separate days, typically for cinematic screenings, film festivals, or related events.

Only after obtaining permission from the Council.

This is not allowed unless permission is obtained from the Council.

A script authorisation permit must be obtained from the UAE Media Council prior to commencing any cinematic or theatrical production. The following conditions and procedures apply:

1. Submission of the application by the individual in whose name the authorisation will be issued, or by their legal representative.
2. Attachment of an electronic copy of the script, whether for cinema or theatrical production.
3. Provision of any additional documents or materials as specified by the Council.

1. Adherence to media content standards.
2. Clear identification requirements: the publication or newspaper must prominently display the following information:
   • Name of the licence holder
   • Name of the editor-in-chief
   • Issue number
   • Place of publication
   • Date of publication
   • Name of the printing press
3. Use of a unique name: the publication must not use names or descriptions that could cause confusion with another existing name or legal entity.
4. Appointment of an editor-in-chief who meets the following criteria:
   1. Possess an academic qualification from a recognised university or higher institute.
   2. Having practical experience of not less than a year.
   3. The editor-in-chief shall be of good conduct.

No, there is no requirement for the editor-in-chief to be a UAE national according to Cabinet Resolution No. (68) of 2024 concerning the Executive Regulations of Federal Decree-Law No. (55) of 2023 regulating the media.

Yes. Federal and local government ministries and agencies, as well as public benefit organisations, must obtain a licence from the Competent Authority if they intend to publish newspapers and publications for commercial profit.

1. Permits for the circulation of foreign publications in the UAE are exempt from fees for quantities of fewer than (10) copies per title.
2. Permit for the circulation of foreign publications in the local market following the conclusion of book fairs, applicable to quantities exceeding (10) copies per title.

1. Submission of the application through approved electronic channels, using the designated form and supported by all required documents.
2. Provision of detailed information about the printing press and the owner of the foreign publication.
3. Specification of the number of copies intended for printing.
4. Compliance with any additional conditions or regulations set by the UAE Media Council.

1. Adherence to media content standards.
2. Submission of information to the Competent Authority regarding the publications that will be showcased at the fair.
3. Obtaining a licence from the relevant authority in the respective emirate to hold the event.
4. Acceptance of inspection measures by the UAE Media Council to verify that participating entities comply with media content standards.

1. Obtain a news platform licence for the provision of news services.
2. Obtain an authorisation as a natural person to provide media or advertising content on social media platforms.

1. Adherence to media content standards.
2. Compliance with the licensing controls and procedures set out in Resolution No. (9) of 2024, issued by the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the UAE Media Council concerning the Advertiser License.

1. Licensing of platforms for engaging in electronic and digital media activities, including news services and advertising. Licensed news platforms must clearly differentiate between advertising content and editorial content.
2. Authorisation for natural persons to provide advertising or media content on social media platforms.
3. Authorisation for visitors to provide advertising or media content on social media during their stay in the UAE.

1. Adherence to media content standards.
2. Specification of the purpose of filming, whether for a film, television report, programme, series, advertisement, video clip, or any other purpose.
3. Determine the filming schedule, including start and end dates, and the filming locations.
4. Provision and acquisition of a written authorisation letter.
5. Provision and acquisition of an authorisation letter from the relevant entity, whether based within or outside the UAE.

Yes. The UAE Media Council has introduced a podcast licensing service available to both individuals and companies.

Yes. The UAE Media Council has established a self-monitoring service for media content.

• Licence: A licence is issued by the Council to a media organisation, authorising it to engage in various media activities. The duration of the licence is one full calendar year.
• Permit: A permit is granted by the Council to an establishment or individual, allowing them to engage in a specific media activity for a defined period.

• For licences, the application will be processed within 3 working days from the date of submission, provided that all conditions and requirements are met. If the application requires approval from other relevant parties, the decision may be postponed until the applicant obtains it.
• For permits, the Council or the competent authority is required to review the application within 15 working days from the date of submission. The applicant will be notified of the decision within three working days of its issuance. If the application is not processed within the specified period, it is considered implicitly rejected. As with licences, the decision on the application may be postponed if approval from other concerned parties is necessary.

An application for a licence or permit may be rejected under several circumstances, including:

• Failure to meet the required conditions and criteria.
• Lack of approval from any of the concerned entities whose consent is mandated by law.
• Non-compliance with media content standards.
• A history of suspension or cancellation of a previous licence or permit or the closure of a facility involved in media activity.

In the case of the licence holder's death, the heirs must notify the Council or the competent authority within 90 days of the licence holder's death. The licence will be cancelled if no replacement is nominated within this period. If a replacement is nominated, the licence will be transferred to the legal heirs, who must regularise their status within 90 days from the date of issuance of the ruling regarding the inheritance.

The validity period of the licence issued by the Council is one calendar year.

An application for renewal of the licence must be submitted at least 30 days prior to its expiration, and the renewal will be conducted in accordance with the same conditions and regulations applicable for the initial issuance of the license.

The decision on the application will be made within 3 working days from the date of submission, provided it meets the necessary conditions and regulations.

The licensee is not permitted to continue practising media activities once the licence expires.

If an application to renew the licence is not submitted within 90 days of expiration, the licence will be cancelled. Additionally, a fine will be imposed in accordance with the list of administrative violations and penalties.

The licensee is not allowed to assign or rent the licence to others, or to make any changes to the partners, such as additions or replacements, without obtaining prior approval from the Council.

• The issuance of a judicial ruling or final administrative decision to cancel the licence, as outlined in the list of administrative violations and penalties.
• The death of the licensee without the nomination of a replacement.
• Failure to submit a licence renewal application within 90 days of its expiration.
• Any other cases determined by the Council.

In the event of a partner's death in a license, the Council must be notified, and the articles of incorporation must be amended within 90 days from the date of the inheritance distribution ruling.

A foreign investor can obtain a licence from the Council.

The permit is valid for the duration specified within the permit and is granted only once per application.

• If the permit holder makes any amendments without prior approval.
• If a final administrative decision is issued to cancel the permit due to non-compliance with media content standards.

You should continue following the current procedures until you receive a notification regarding the date and mechanism for transferring authority to the concerned local entities. This transition will be managed to ensure that your media and commercial activities remain unaffected. In this case, you can contact the UAE Media Council for the correct guidance.

You can view the frequently asked questions related to the permit for providing advertising or media content on social media for individuals – Advertiser Licence – by visiting the link uaemc.gov.ae/en/licensing-services/

All media activities must comply with the following legally established content standards:

1. Respecting Islamic beliefs, as well as all other religions and faiths.
2. Respecting the country's sovereignty, symbols and institutions, and the supreme interests of the UAE and its society.
3. Respecting the directions and policies of the country at the local and international levels.
4. Avoid any actions that may hurt the UAE’s foreign relations.
5. Respecting the culture and civilisation, and national identity of the country.
6. Avoiding the publication or circulation of what undermines national unity and social cohesion.
7. Not provoking sectarian, regional or tribal tensions and refraining from incitement to violence, hatred and terrorism, as well as avoiding sowing discord within society.
8. Not disrespecting the prevailing values within society and considering the requirements of the public interest.
9. Refrain from causing harm to the UAE's legal, economic, judicial, and security systems.
10. Respecting privacy rules and the private lives of individuals.
11. Not publishing or circulating content that incites crime or encourages acts of murder, rape, drug abuse or the use of psychoactive substances.
12. Not publishing or broadcasting content that violates public morals or harms youth or promotes harmful ideologies.
13. Not publishing or broadcasting fake news, forged documents or information inaccurately attributed to entities and individuals.
14. Not publishing or broadcasting anything that could harm the national currency or the economic situation of the country.
15. Not spreading rumours or misleading news.
16. Not glorifying groups with destructive political, ethnic, economic, ideological, or social agendas against the country for their own interests.
17. Select appropriate individuals for hosting or media appearances.
18. Ensure that advertisements respect the culture, identity and values of the country.
19. Adhere to the age classification of artistic works as approved by the Council.
20. Respecting children's rights in accordance with applicable legislation in the country.

For detailed information on media content standards, please visit uaemc.gov.ae/en/media-content-standards/.

1. Foreign correspondents and journalists must obtain a permit from the Competent Authority.
2. Their news must be objective and documented.
3. Any actions that may harm national security or damage the nation’s relations, organizations, and entities are prohibited.
4. Adherence to media content standards is required.

Attach a letter from the media institution outside the UAE stating that the foreign reporter and journalist will represent them to cover events in the country.

The permit is for a specific period of time and expires at the end of the event.

1. Applications must be submitted to the Competent Authority through approved electronic means, supported by the necessary documents as well as evidence supporting the accuracy of the information provided.
2. The application must specify the type of media outlet that the office will represent in the country.
3. Each office must have a manager, appointed with the approval of the Competent Authority, adhering to the following conditions:
   1. The manager must be at least 25 years old; however, the competent authority may grant exceptions to this requirement.
   2. The manager must possess a relevant educational qualification as determined by the Competent Authority.
   3. An appointment letter from the original foreign media outlet in the country of origin, notarised and certified by the country embassy.
4. The names and details of the office staff must be specified.
5. The names of the correspondents and journalists working in the office must be specified, and their appointments must be approved by the Competent Authority according to established conditions.
6. Changes to the office managers, correspondents, and journalists are not permitted without the approval of the Competent Authority and the confirmation of the new manager and correspondents.
7. Any additional conditions set by the Council.

The Council will take the necessary measures according to the law, which may include a warning, a fine of up to AED 1 million, and if the violation recurs within one year of its occurrence, the fine may double, not exceeding AED 2 million. Additionally, temporary administrative closure of up to six months or permanent closure may be enforced, along with the revocation of licenses or permits.

Violators of the law may be subject to administrative sanctions outlined in the decisions regarding violations and administrative sanctions. These may include warnings, fines of up to AED 2 million, administrative closure, and cancellation of the licence or permit.

1. The applicant for the licence must have full legal capacity.
2. The applicant must have a good reputation and conduct, and must not have been previously convicted of a penalty that restricts freedom for a felony or a dishonorable misdemeanor, unless their status has been restored.
3. The following documents must accompany the application:
   1. A valid ID card issued in the country for the applicant and their partners (if any).
   2. A certificate reserving the trade name from the relevant authorities, including the name, legal form, and activity.
   3. The founding contract or the articles of association of the media institution, as applicable.
   4. A letter appointing the General Manager.
   5. Completion of a personal data form if engaging in activities that require it.
   6. If the applicant is a foreign media office, the name and address of its legal representative in the country must be provided, along with a notarised power of attorney from the legal representative certified by the country embassy.
4. Any additional conditions set forth by the Council or the Competent Authority.

Those licenced or authorised are entitled to practise the media activities for which they have been licenced or authorised, and they must comply with all provisions of the law, regulations and decisions related to media regulation, including media content standards and age rating.