A new licensing system launched by the National Media Council (NMC) in March this year, distinguishes fake social media influencers and bloggers from genuine ones. UAE-based influencers claimed that this has given them a competitive edge over the fake influencers.
UAE-based influencers also feel that their profession is much more protected and legitimized by this new initiative and license facility.
An individual license is available for the influencers at UAE Dirhams 15,000 plus a trade license; a partnership license at UAE Dirhams 15,000 plus a trade license. The license is available to legally operate in UAE, and around 650 social media influencers and 150 companies have already been granted licenses.
A UAE-based real estate influencer who was among the top 10 influencers to receive this license, mentioned that he feels that he is rightly getting the priority in various branding projects because of his license and it also gives him a sense of responsibility while putting up the content.
He further mentioned that before this law was enforced, a lot of bloggers would put up content without any responsibility and as a hobby. However, this regulated system shall lead to avoidance of such fake bloggers and protect both brands and influencers.
