Posting without license? Influencers in UAE risk Dh1 million fine: Here's what you need to know
Influencers earning from content in the UAE must get business licenses or risk fines up to Dh1 million/ Image :Pexels
A major update to media regulation in the UAE has officially come into force, requiring all social media influencers and content creators engaged in commercial activities to obtain a business license before applying for a media license from the UAE Media Council.
This shift is part of the broader Media Regulation Law, implemented on May 29, 2025, by the UAE Media Council, marking a significant development in the country's evolving digital media landscape. The regulation is aimed at fostering ethical, high-quality online content, while safeguarding societal norms and ensuring public trust.
Previously, influencers and creators were only required to obtain a media license.
The new regulation now mandates a business license first, reflecting the UAE's commitment to more structured oversight of online commercial activity.
Purpose and Vision Behind the Law
The policy is part of the UAE's Digital Participation Policy, designed to promote constructive engagement on social media while ensuring compliance with local laws and values. It gives the Media Council broad authority to monitor, modify, or remove digital content that violates regulations.
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
Giao dịch vàng CFDs với mức chênh lệch giá thấp nhất
IC Markets
Đăng ký
Undo
Speaking at a recent press conference in Dubai, Maitha Al Suwaidi, CEO of Strategy and Media Policies Sector at the UAE Media Council, emphasized the broader vision behind the law.
'This road map reflects our deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities presented by new media. It is designed to foster a flexible, contemporary environment that aligns with global media trends while safeguarding the UAE's core values,' she said.
She also noted that the primary goals of the new licensing system are to build public trust, protect audiences, and elevate the quality of online content.
Fee Exemptions to Support Content Creators
In a supportive move aimed at easing the transition, the UAE Media Council has waived all permit fees for a period of three years for influencers and content creators applying under the new system.
According to Maitha Al Suwaidi:
'To support content creators, the Council is offering a three-year exemption from permit fees, providing a financial cushion for influencers to adapt to the new regulations.'
This approach reflects an understanding of the financial and logistical challenges that many independent creators face, particularly those who are just beginning to commercialize their platforms.
Strict Penalties for Non-Compliance
The updated Media Regulation Law also introduces stringent penalties for violations. Offenders may face fines of up to Dh1 million, with the severity of the penalty based on the frequency and gravity of the offense.
The UAE Media Council retains full authority to delete or modify any content that contravenes the guidelines set forth in the new law, including posts that may be deemed defamatory, offensive, or otherwise disruptive to social harmony.
What Influencers and Creators Need to Know
Here's a breakdown of what's now required under the new law:
Licensing Steps:
Obtain a business license — mandatory for any influencer or creator earning through content.
Apply for a media license — from the UAE Media Council after the business license is secured.
Key Features:
Three-year exemption from media license fees to ease the financial burden.
Regulatory oversight of content for quality and social compliance.
Authority to remove or amend content violating the law.
Penalties:
Fines up to Dh1 million for violations.
Escalating penalties based on the severity and recurrence of offenses.
Broader Impact
The UAE's updated media framework marks a defining moment in its approach to digital communication. It puts in place a modern and robust regulatory system that balances the freedom to create with responsibility and accountability, ultimately aiming to promote a safer, more credible, and culturally respectful digital environment.
With the UAE emerging as a growing hub for digital talent, these regulatory developments are likely to shape influencer practices, guide content standards, and ensure that public engagement remains respectful and in line with national values.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
10 years since launch, work on flyovers at Manesar and Bilaspur Chowk to unclog NH-8 set to start next month
Gurgaon: In a relief from grinding congestion along Delhi-Jaipur highway, work on two long-pending flyovers at Manesar and Bilaspur Chowk — which were announced 10 years ago — is likely to begin next month. NHAI has awarded the project to a new agency, aiming to decongest these two choke points on this critical industrial corridor. The two flyovers, costing around Rs 84 crore, are expected to be completed by 2027 even though the projects are delayed by at least three years going by the original timeline. Bilaspur Chowk flyover, in particular, faced repeated setbacks. Originally announced in 2015, it saw a foundation stone laid in March 2022 with a targeted completion date of Oct 2024. The two flyovers — 1.2km at Manesar and 1km at Bilaspur Chowk — will be six-lane structures with three-lane service roads on either side. This stretch of NH8, which connects Delhi to Jaipur, is one of the busiest corridors, with high volumes of industrial traffic, commercial vehicles and daily commuters. For years, however, road users faced logjams at Bilaspur and Manesar, particularly during peak hours. An NHAI official said, "We will begin construction by first developing the service roads to ensure uninterrupted traffic movement. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like I Asked ChatGPT What Humanity Will Achieve In The Next 30 Years — Here's What It Said Liseer Undo Once that is done, work on the main flyovers will commence." "We aim to finish both structures within two years. Additionally, a minor bridge will be constructed at Deodahi and a box culvert at Ladhuwas," the official said. "Both Manesar and Bilaspur Chowk see congestion during rush hours. The new infrastructure will allow smoother vehicular flow and benefit thousands of commuters daily," the official said. Initially overseen by NHAI's project implementing unit (PIU) Jaipur as part of a wider highway upgrade, the project was later handed over to PIU Rewari. Construction at Bilaspur Chowk began in May 2023 but soon stalled when underground utility lines were found in the alignment. A revision in estimates and financial constraints of the contracted firm brought the project to a standstill. In Aug last year, a mahapanchayat of over 108 villages was held demanding the completion of stalled flyover construction at teh Bilaspur Chowk. In Oct 2024, NHAI finally descoped the stalled work and floated a fresh tender in Dec. Now, with the new contract in place, the agency is expected to mobilise equipment and manpower within weeks. While the NHAI claimed the project is finally back on track and construction is to start next month, residents and commuters said they will be watching closely to see if the new deadlines are met. "For the last three years, we have been hearing about the flyover construction, but little to nothing has been done," Bhora Kalan sarpanch Manbir Singh said. Manbir said, "We have to take long detours every day just to reach Tauru or Pataudi. Even the service road was repaired only after a mahapanchayat last year. Bilaspur Chowk is an accident-prone area and many have lost their lives there." Once completed, the new flyovers are expected to cut travel time and ease bottlenecks — especially at Bilaspur Chowk and Manesar, a known traffic nightmare.
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
As routes shift, flight fares go on steep ascent
New Delhi: Airfares from India to several international destinations have risen sharply in the past month, travel companies said, potentially intensifying worries for travellers especially families looking to head out for the summer holidays. Airline operating costs are getting impacted by airspace closures due to the Israel-Iran conflict, forcing longer flight detours, and fuel price volatility, the companies said, adding lower seat capacity on certain routes is also weighing on ticket prices. Fares could rise further if the route diversions and impact on flight frequencies continue, they said. Europe is likely to see the sharpest fare hikes, especially for routes to France, Germany and the UK, said Jatinder Paul Singh, global CEO of Viacation, a travel solutions provider . "From India, airfares to Europe have gone up by 20-35% between March and July based on forward bookings data." by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like What Is a Family Trust, and How Do You Set One Up? SmartAsset Learn More Undo
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Capricorn Daily Horoscope Today, June 21, 2025: Boundaries bring you inner peace
Today reminds you that boundaries aren't barriers—they're tools for peace. You may feel stretched thin by others' needs or demands, but saying no with love is an act of self-respect. You have the wisdom to know what's yours to carry and what's not. Let your strength come from structure, not struggle. Focus only on what truly needs your time. This day brings clarity, not chaos, if you stay rooted in your own lane. Honour your space—it's where your peace begins. Capricorn Love Horoscope Today In love, your emotional space needs gentle respect today. If in a relationship, don't feel guilty for needing quiet or time to recharge. Communication will go better if you're honest without blame. If single, you may attract someone with calm energy—but be clear about what you want. Don't overextend just to be liked. You deserve love that understands your need for depth and balance. Let the connection grow from truth, not pressure. Boundaries in love create deeper closeness. Capricorn Career Horoscope Today At work, you may be asked to handle more than you can right now. Be honest about your limits. You're not being difficult—you're protecting your quality. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Buy Brass Idols - Handmade Brass Statues for Home & Gifting Luxeartisanship Buy Now Undo If working alone, focus on one task and avoid distractions. A senior may respect your sense of order today. Use this moment to structure your time well. You don't have to do everything—just do what matters, well. Clear limits will help your performance shine more than forced multitasking ever could. Capricorn Money Horoscope Today Money energy supports structure today. Review your finances without fear. You may find areas where you're spending from guilt or pressure. Stop that cycle with simple awareness. A financial boundary—like saying no to a loan or cutting one unnecessary cost—will create more peace than income today. You are being asked to take control not through force, but through wise planning. Wealth is not just what you earn, but what you protect. Make a calm decision and stick to it. Capricorn Health Horoscope Today Physically, the body might carry tension in the shoulders or chest if boundaries haven't been respected lately. This is your sign to rest and breathe. Practice gentle movements that release tightness—light yoga or even a warm compress may help. Avoid caffeine or overstimulating food. Choose simplicity in meals and habits today. Take time to unwind before sleep, and disconnect from people who drain you. You're not being cold—you're caring for your energy. That care builds true strength. Discover everything about astrology at the Times of India , including daily horoscopes for Aries , Taurus , Gemini , Cancer , Leo , Virgo , Libra , Scorpio , Sagittarius , Capricorn , Aquarius , and Pisces .
