Dubai: Under the newly implemented media law in the UAE, authorities have released a list of media activities that now require a license.From now on, individuals and organizations are not permitted to engage in the following media-related activities without obtaining the appropriate license or permit from the UAE Media Council or the relevant authority:
• Radio and television broadcasting, including on-demand platforms
• Electronic and digital media operations
• Screening of films and other artistic content
• Social media advertising by individuals
• Foreign publications
• Printing, distribution, and publishing of local and international media content
• Land, aerial, and marine photography activities
• Offices of foreign media outlets
• News platforms
• Newspapers and print publications
• Book fairs
• Video games
Anyone found conducting media activities from this list without a valid license will face a fine of AED 10,000 for the first offense. Repeated violations may lead to an increased fine of AED 40,000.The law also stipulates severe penalties—up to AED 1 million—for serious violations such as spreading false information or disrespecting the governing system.
