Overview
In a landmark legal development, the United Arab Emirates has enacted its first comprehensive media regulation law in over four decades, signalling a paradigm shift in the way the country regulates traditional and digital media. The Media Regulation Law and its accompanying Executive Regulations, announced at a press conference held by the UAE Media Council in Dubai, are designed to address the realities of a rapidly evolving media landscape—one dominated by artificial intelligence (AI), digital platforms, gaming, and influencer-based content.
Legal Foundation and Structure
The new media regulatory framework falls under the following legal and administrative structure:
1. Primary Law
- Federal Decree-Law No. (2025) – Media Regulation Law(official number pending publication in the Official Gazette)
2. Supporting Legislation
- Cabinet Decision No. (20) of 2023 – Establishing the UAE Media Council
- Cabinet Resolution (2025) – On Media Service Fees
- Cabinet Resolution (2025) – On Violations and Administrative Penalties
- Federal Decree-Law No. (34) of 2021 – Anti-Rumors and Cybercrime Law
- Federal Decree-Law No. (15) of 2020 – Consumer Protection Law (relevant to online content and advertisements)
- Federal Law No. 3 of 2016 – Wadeema Law (Child Rights Law), supporting the age classification system
3. Regulatory Authority
• UAE Media Council (established in 2023) The unified federal body now tasked with:
- Licensing media services
- Regulating social media advertising
- Regulating social media advertising
- Monitoring journalistic and content standards
- Implementing the content classification system
Key Changes Introduced
A. Regulation of New Media and Emerging Technologies
- Explicit inclusion of artificial intelligence (AI)-generated content, gaming, and on-demand digital broadcasting
- New policies targeting platforms and influencers previously outside traditional frameworks
B. Social Media Advertising oversight
- Introduction of licensing regulations for individual influencers
- Three-year permit fee exemption to support content creators
- New standards to build public trust and enhance the quality of digital advertising
C. Digital Journalism and Platform Licensing
- A forthcoming policy to license digital news platforms based on journalistic standards and professional guidelines
- Emphasis on balanced, value-driven content
D. Age Rating System
- New, comprehensive age classification framework to protect children and adolescents from harmful or inappropriate digital content
E. Local Content Empowerment
- Fee exemptions and strategic support for Emirati writers, producers, and creatives
- Promotion of national identity, local narratives, and original productions
Impact and Implications
1. For Content Creators and Influencers
- Must adhere to new licensing and advertising standards
- Eligible for permit fee exemptions for the next three years
- Subject to scrutiny under both the Media Regulation Law and Cybercrime Law
2. For Media Companies and Broadcasters
- Required to re-align content strategies and licensing under the new framework
- Must adopt age-appropriate content classification
- Access to a streamlined licensing regime and incentives under the new Executive Regulations
3. For Digital Platforms and AI developers
- AI-generated content is now explicitly regulated
- New rules apply to gaming content, streaming platforms, and virtual media environments
4. For Legal and Compliance Teams
- A compliance review is recommended to update contracts, licensing, content moderation protocols, and ad partnerships
- Coordination with the UAE Media Council will be crucial to navigate permit requirements and regulatory expectations
Conclusion
The UAE’s new Media Regulation Law represents a pivotal milestone in the modernization of the country’s media landscape. For the first time, the law formally extends regulation to AI, digital influencers, on-demand broadcasting, and gaming content—balancing innovation with responsibility. It empowers both Emirati talent and global media investors through a progressive, flexible, and growth-oriented regulatory system.
The law supports the national agenda of making the UAE a regional and international hub for high-quality, ethical, and future-facing media. It also signals a new era of proactive digital governance aligned with international standards and the UAE’s vision for a knowledge-driven economy.
