TFS Gulf 
- Big shift for UAE content creators.
- On May 29, 2025, the “UAE drew a clear legal line” between hobbyists and professionals in the creator economy.
- All influencers or digital content creators monetising their content must now obtain a license, as per the UAE Media Council.
- FYI: The UAE’s influencer advertising market is projected to reach nearly $97 million by 2030.
The New Rules
Under the updated Federal Decree Law No. 55 of 2023 and Cabinet Resolution No. 20/2025, creators must hold two separate licenses:
Business License
- The license can be issued by a free zone (freelance or trade license) or your local Dubai Economic Department (DED) (mainland).
- This makes your creator activity a registered commercial entity and lets you sponsor a visa.
- You can get one from Dubai Media City, SHAMS, IFZA, Meydan, etc.
- DEDs in each emirate also offer similar permits.
- License costs usually range between AED 5,000 to AED 15,000.
Media License
- Apply through the UAE Media Council via their official website: uaemc.gov.ae.
- First, obtain a business (trade) license before applying for a media license.
- Previously, only a media license was required, but under new rules, a trade license is now mandatory first.
According to Cabinet Resolution No. (41) of 2025 on Media Services Fees, the influencer media permit costs AED 1,000 per year, including renewals. - Enables you to legally create and publish monetised content.
And also…Advertiser’s Permit
- And from July 30 onward, you’ll need an Advertiser Permit too.
- Who needs it? An influencer, marketing agency, or even a corporate account monetising digital content.
- Good news: These permit fees are waived for the first three years.
Are there any exemptions?
Yes.
- Individuals using personal accounts to promote their products or businesses.
- Influencers under 18 creating educational, cultural, sports, or awareness-related content.
Non-compliance is risky business
Penalties under the new law are steep and escalating:
- Fines of up to AED 1 million for spreading misinformation, defamation, or violating public order.
- Unlicensed influencer work can lead to fines between AED 3,000 to AED 10,000, even for first-time offences.
- Repeat offenders could face fines up to AED 2 million, account suspension, or forced business shutdown.
The UAE Media Council is also empowered to:
- Suspend accounts
- Revoke licenses
- Remove published content
Also read: UAE’s new medical & pharmaceutical laws: Non-compliance fines upto $272,000
Why this matters
Influencing is now a regulated profession: Brands and agencies now prefer working only with licensed creators for clear legal protection and credibility.
Support ecosystem is growing: Initiatives like Creators HQ in Dubai provide visa access, grants, and mentorship to thousands of licensed creators.
Safety concerns underscore urgency: Incidents like the Maria Kovalchuk case in Dubai highlight the need for structured protection for influencers.
Wrapping up…
This regulation marks a turning point in the region’s digital economy.
UAE is setting the regional standard.
And experts expect neighbouring countries like Qatar and Kuwait to adopt similar frameworks soon.
