UAE announces new law to regulate media

The UAE has enacted a fresh law to govern the media industry, encompassing radio, television, newspapers, and cinemas within the country.

The UAE government has introduced a new law to regulate the media sector, covering radio, television, newspapers, and cinemas in the country. The aim is to organize media activities, boost the UAE’s status as a global media hub, and create a favorable environment for the growth of the media sector.

The law applies to individuals, organizations, media outlets, and media-focused free zones in the UAE. It allows both individuals and companies to own media institutions and outlets, following specific regulations and conditions.

Media activities, as defined by the law, include producing, circulating, printing, and publishing media content. This encompasses audio, video, and digital broadcasting, whether at a cost or free of charge.

The law addresses various aspects, such as licensing and oversight for media activities, covering radio and television broadcasting, cinema, newspapers, digital media, book fairs, foreign publications, and more. It also outlines the responsibilities of the UAE Media Council and local government entities involved in regulating media affairs.

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All media individuals and institutions operating in the UAE must adhere to national standards for media content. This includes respecting religious beliefs, the UAE’s sovereignty, symbols, institutions, and international policies. Media outlets are also required to avoid actions that could harm foreign relations, respect the UAE’s culture and values, and refrain from disseminating offensive or divisive information.

The UAE Media Council will issue permits for the screening of films and other creative productions, define classifications for the Media Content Rating System, and determine suitable age groups for viewing media content. The Council will also issue permits for individuals providing advertising or media content on social media and other modern platforms.

The law allows the Council to oversee and inspect individuals, outlets, and media institutions, including those in free zones. Additionally, the UAE Media Council, in coordination with relevant authorities, will promote the protection of intellectual property in the country.

Individuals, organizations, and media outlets have been given a twelve-month period from the effective date of the law to comply with its provisions, with the possibility of extension through a Cabinet decision.