The UAE Government has issued a federal decree regulating the media. This law applies to individuals, organizations, media outlets, and free zones dedicated to media in the country. In accordance with specific regulations and conditions, both individuals and legal entities are allowed to own media outlets and institutions.
What are the media activities?
In accordance with the law, media activities include producing, circulating, printing, and publishing media content. Also included are audio, video, and digital broadcasts, whether paid or free.
For the purpose of conducting these media activities, licences and permits are issued and overseen by law.
Additionally, the law organizes the authorities of the UAE Media Council and the local government entities that regulate media affairs.
The compliance process
According to the decree, all media organizations and individuals operating in the UAE are required to comply with the following national standards:
- Divine respect, Islamic beliefs, all religions and other beliefs
- Respect the country's sovereignty, symbols and institutions, and the supreme interests of the UAE and its society
- Respect the directions and policies of the country on the local and international levels
- Avoid any adverse impact on the UAE’s foreign relations
- Respect the culture and civilization, national identity and values of the society
In addition, the media outlets and individuals are required not to:
- Disseminate or circulate information that offend national unity or social cohesion
- Incite violence, hatred or propagate a spirit of discord among the members of society
- Show irresponsible use of the UAE’s legal and economic system
- Disrespect privacy rules and individuals' private lives
- Publish, broadcast or circulate rumours, false and misleading news or any matter that may constitute instigation to commit crimes
Cinema, book, and video game permits
In accordance with the decree, the UAE Media Council is responsible for issuing permits for screening cinematographic and other creative productions. As well as defining the classifications of the Media Content Rating System for prints and creative works, such as books, video games and movies, it will also determine the appropriate age groups for viewing media and entertainment.
Furthermore, the Council grants permits to individuals who provide advertising or media content on social media and other modern technological means for a fee or for free.
The decree mandates that licensed or authorised individuals and media outlets be supervised by the competent authority. The Council is allowed to conduct surveillance and inspections of people, outlets, and media institutions, including free zones.
Intellectual property
According to the law, the UAE Media Council, in coordination with the competent authorities will promote intellectual property protection among individuals, establishments and media institutions in the UAE.
The timeline
Individuals and media outlets are given a twelve-month period to adjust their situation in accordance with this law, which can be extended by a Cabinet decision.