What Fines Influencers and Content Creators Face Under UAE Media Law

A new UAE media law that came into force in 2025 is reshaping how influencers, advertisers and content creators operate across digital platforms, introducing tighter content standards, mandatory licensing and fines that can reach up to Dh1 million for serious violations.

Issued under Federal Media Law No. 55 of 2023, the legislation applies to all forms of media, including print and broadcast outlets, websites, online publications, social media platforms, digital advertising and sponsored content. Regulators have been granted expanded powers to monitor content and enforce compliance.

Mandatory content standards-

To support implementation, the UAE Media Council has introduced 20 mandatory content standards that apply to all media and advertising content, whether paid or unpaid. These standards aim to preserve UAE values and social harmony, protect national interests and public order, ensure responsible communication, and prevent misinformation, harmful speech and illegal activity.

Advertiser Permit deadline-

Content creators and advertisers must obtain an Advertiser Permit by January 31, 2026. The permit allows individuals to publish promotional or advertising content through social media accounts, websites, blogs and other digital platforms, regardless of whether the content is paid or unpaid.

To qualify, applicants must be at least 18 years old (with limited age-based exceptions), be a UAE citizen or resident, and hold a valid trade licence to practise electronic media. As part of a support initiative, the permit is issued free of charge for three years for UAE citizens and residents.

Fines for influencers and content creators-

The law sets out a detailed penalty framework designed to protect social stability and moral values.

Violating any of the 20 mandatory content standards may result in fines of up to Dh1 million, particularly for serious breaches such as religious offences or incitement to violence.

Content that incites crimes such as murder, rape or drug abuse can attract fines of up to Dh150,000.

Violations related to state interests and national security carry heavy penalties. Disrespecting national symbols or institutions, or offending governance systems or domestic and foreign policy, can result in fines ranging from Dh50,000 to Dh500,000, while undermining foreign relations or social cohesion may lead to fines of up to Dh250,000.

Licensing and permit violations-

Operating without a licence carries a Dh10,000 fine for a first offence and Dh40,000 for repeated violations. Failure to renew a licence results in a daily fine of Dh150, capped at Dh3,000 if renewal is delayed beyond 30 days.

Misusing a licence, including unauthorised transfers or changes, can lead to fines of up to Dh20,000. Publishing content with an expired licence carries a Dh10,000 fine for the first offence, rising to Dh20,000 for repeat offences, with penalties doubling for each recurrence.

Misinformation and publishing offences-

Disseminating false information carries a fine of Dh5,000 for a first offence and Dh10,000 for repeated violations. Other publishing-related offences include organising a book fair without a permit, fined at Dh40,000, and printing or publishing media materials without a licence, fined at Dh20,000, with penalties doubling for repeat offences.

Unlicensed foreign correspondents may receive up to three written warnings, followed by fines of Dh10,000 for repeated violations.

Permit suspension or cancellation-

The UAE Media Council may suspend or cancel an Advertiser Permit, without prejudice to other penalties, if a permit holder breaches licence conditions, violates content standards, or submits inaccurate or misleading information in their application.

With the January 31 deadline approaching, authorities are urging influencers and content creators to regularise their status and ensure full compliance to avoid fines and potential loss of operating privileges.