Internet service providers must consider certain frameworks and categories outlined in the Internet Access Management Regulatory Policy to ensure Internet security and protect end-users from harmful websites containing materials contrary to the religious and ethical values of the UAE. UAE Social Media Law governs these regulations to safeguard online interactions and content.
The Media Regulatory Office (MRO) actively manages and regulates media activities and media-related free zones in the UAE. Federal Decree Law No. 34 of 2021 on Combatting Rumors and Cybercrimes aims to protect society and government websites and data from information technology crimes and to combat rumors and fraud through electronic communication. Khairallah Law Firm provides legal expertise in navigating these regulations.
UAE Social Media Law
Understanding Media Regulation in the UAE: Navigating UAE Social Media Law
he Federal Decree-Law No. 55 of 2023 (PDF in Arabic, 3.2 MB) on Media Regulation organizes media activities of individuals, organizations, media outlets, and free zones dedicated to media in the UAE. According to the decree, a media activity involves the production, circulation, printing, or publishing of media content, which may be in audio, video, or digital format. Activities may be either paid or free of charge. Media activities include:
- Radio and television broadcasting,
- cinema movies and creative productions,
- newspapers and publications,
- digital and electronic media activities,
- imaging activities and book fairs are all included in the scope of media regulation.
Under certain restrictions and conditions, the decree-law allows both natural persons and legal entities to own media outlets and institutions. The decree-law’s provisions also set up the local governments in charge of media affairs and the media authorities of the UAE Media Council. To engage in such activities, a social media marketing license must be obtained.
Read More About: Dubai social media rules
Regulating Internet Media: Guidelines and Policies
The Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) actively implements the Internet Access Management Regulatory Policy (PDF, 500 KB) in coordination with the Media Regulatory Office (MRO), as well as Etisalat and Du, the licensed internet service providers in the UAE.
The regulation policy comprises specific frameworks and categories concerning the internet. Internet service providers must consider these frameworks and categories to ensure internet security and protect end-users from harmful websites containing materials that contradict the religious and ethical values of the UAE. Online company registration in UAE may also fall under the purview of these regulations.
UAE Social Media Law mandates TDRA to actively monitor online content available to users in the UAE and notify website operators based in the UAE of any potential breaches of the IAM policy. In its enforcement of IAM, TDRA also monitors online advertising, including the advertising of medical and other specialized products and services.
Read More About: social media defamation uae
Understanding the General Framework of the UAE Media Strategy with a Focus on UAE Social Media Law
In January 2021, the UAE Cabinet approved the general framework of the UAE Media Strategy, which the UAE Government Media Office oversees. The aim of the strategy is to strengthen the UAE’s position and reputation at the regional and global levels. This strategy is crucial for enhancing the presence of online businesses in Dubai and expanding its reach.
The strategy will:
- ntensify the role of government communication within the federal authorities.
- Reinforce the concept of partnership, cooperation, and integration between national media authorities.
- Establish partnerships with global media entities.
- Manage the country’s reputation and its achievements within local and international media coverage.
- Create a digital media environment capable of keeping pace with rapid changes and interacting with the world.
UAE Social Media Law
Media Regulation Authority in the UAE
The National Media Office (NMO) is a new media unit tasked with developing the UAE’s media sector at the national level and enhancing the UAE’s status as a key media hub regionally and internationally. The NMO will support cooperation between the UAE’s various media offices and ensure that Emiratis in higher positions in the media industry are equipped with media leadership skills.
NMO will train and upskill Emirati talent in media, develop and organize the roles of official spokespeople, represent the UAE at media conferences and events, and conduct research within the media sector.
NMO, affiliated with the Minister of Presidential Court, will be based in Abu Dhabi with offices set up in the UAE and abroad. The Emirates News Agency (WAM) will report to the Head of NMO.
Stay updated with news coverage on WAM, which may include information about online company registration in Dubai.
The Media Regulatory Office (MRO) actively manages and regulates media activities and media-related free zones in the UAE. Operating under the Ministry of Culture and Youth (formerly known as the Ministry of Culture and Knowledge Development after the merger of the National Media Council with the Federal Youth Authority), MRO assumes the responsibilities of the National Media Council. This includes ensuring compliance with UAE Social Media Law.
Learn More About: social media rules in uae
FAQ
1-Does UAE allow social media?
Dubai and the United Arab Emirates impose stringent regulations on internet usage. This nation does not have access to certain social media platforms. Consequently, if you intend to relocate here, you either need to have a VPN ready or give up on using those apps altogether.
2-What are the rules for influencers in UAE?
Influencer marketing regulations in the UAE require influencers to:
- Maintain a record of all materials they have promoted on social media.
- Comply with laws around photography, defamation, and privacy.
- Avoid making blasphemous statements.
- Refrain from making political or religious statements or sharing messages that may disturb the peace.
3-What is the fine for social media in UAE?
Engaging in activities such as taking photos, eavesdropping, and disclosing or exposing such photos online to breach the privacy or family life of individuals without consent will result in punishment. Offenders will face a minimum sentence of 6 months and fines ranging from AED 150,000 to AED 500,000.
4-Do influencers need a license in Dubai?
Indeed, social media influencers in Dubai must obtain a license from the National Media Council (NMC). Learning how to acquire this influencer license is essential, as it can bring significant commercial and financial benefits in Dubai, UAE.
Conclusion
If you are an influencer facing legal challenges, Khairallah Law Firm can assist you. We have the best lawyers in Dubai who can help you achieve success in court. Contact us for more information.
