The UAE Media Council has launched a new mandatory permit system for individuals who publish promotional content on social media platforms, regardless of whether the content is paid or unpaid. The initiative aims to enhance content quality and create a more transparent regulatory environment for digital advertising.
The permit will become mandatory after a three-month grace period, giving content creators time to align with the new regulations. Mohammed Saeed Al Shehhi, Secretary-General of the UAE Media Council, describes the permit as “a pivotal step in evolving the regulatory ecosystem for advertising activities across digital platforms.”
In order to encourage compliance, the permits will be issued free of charge for the first three years. Existing valid permits will remain effective until they expire, with renewal applications available thereafter.
The framework also introduces “Visitor Advertiser Permits” for international content creators. These permits, valid for three months and renewable once for an additional three months, must be obtained through licensed advertising or talent management agencies approved by the council.
Exemptions for Specific Groups
Individuals promoting their own products or services through personal accounts are exempt from obtaining the permit. The exemption also extends to those under 18 who engage in educational, athletic, cultural, or awareness activities, provided these align with age-appropriate classifications.
The advertiser permit complements rules introduced in May that require content creators to obtain a business license if they generate income from their online presence. Content creators are exempt from business license fees for the next three years.
Permit holders must display their permit number clearly on their social media accounts. The regulations prohibit account holders from allowing others to advertise through their registered accounts and require obtaining approval from relevant authorities before publishing certain advertisements.
“We are committed to supporting the content economy as a vital component of the future economy and a key driver of growth in the digital era,” states Al Shehhi. The council aims to position the UAE as a leading hub for advertising content production by creating an environment that attracts creative talent while maintaining regulatory standards.
David Adler is an entrepreneur and freelance blog post writer who enjoys writing about business, entrepreneurship, travel and the influencer marketing space.
The UAE Media Council has launched a new mandatory permit system for individuals who publish promotional content on social media platforms, regardless of whether the content is paid or unpaid. The initiative aims to enhance content quality and create a more transparent regulatory environment for digital advertising.
The permit will become mandatory after a three-month grace period, giving content creators time to align with the new regulations. Mohammed Saeed Al Shehhi, Secretary-General of the UAE Media Council, describes the permit as “a pivotal step in evolving the regulatory ecosystem for advertising activities across digital platforms.”
In order to encourage compliance, the permits will be issued free of charge for the first three years. Existing valid permits will remain effective until they expire, with renewal applications available thereafter.
The framework also introduces “Visitor Advertiser Permits” for international content creators. These permits, valid for three months and renewable once for an additional three months, must be obtained through licensed advertising or talent management agencies approved by the council.
Exemptions for Specific Groups
Individuals promoting their own products or services through personal accounts are exempt from obtaining the permit. The exemption also extends to those under 18 who engage in educational, athletic, cultural, or awareness activities, provided these align with age-appropriate classifications.
The advertiser permit complements rules introduced in May that require content creators to obtain a business license if they generate income from their online presence. Content creators are exempt from business license fees for the next three years.
Permit holders must display their permit number clearly on their social media accounts. The regulations prohibit account holders from allowing others to advertise through their registered accounts and require obtaining approval from relevant authorities before publishing certain advertisements.
“We are committed to supporting the content economy as a vital component of the future economy and a key driver of growth in the digital era,” states Al Shehhi. The council aims to position the UAE as a leading hub for advertising content production by creating an environment that attracts creative talent while maintaining regulatory standards.