Abu Dhabi: The United Arab Emirates implemented a new media law on May 29, 2025, establishing a comprehensive regulatory framework governing all media activities nationwide. The legislation, announced by the UAE Media Council, aims to promote ethical and responsible content across digital and traditional platforms, with fines reaching up to Dh1 million for violations.
The law outlines a wide range of offenses, including insulting religious beliefs, violating public morals, inciting crimes, disrespecting national symbols, and undermining foreign relations. Penalties vary based on the severity and recurrence of violations. It also updates licensing requirements and sets clear standards for content creators, publishers, and media companies.
Key penalties include: Up to Dh1 million for insulting religious beliefs, Dh50,000 to Dh500,000 for disrespecting national symbols or governance, Fines for misinformation, unlicensed media activity, and unauthorized content publication ranging from Dh5,000 to Dh40,000 and higher for repeated offenses.
The law also enhances protections for media professionals and influencers while promoting accountability and transparency aligned with international standards.
To clarify and enforce the law, the UAE Media Council issued 20 binding content standards. These standards require full respect for religious beliefs, the nation’s system of governance, national symbols, domestic and foreign policies, cultural heritage, and social cohesion. The standards prohibit hate speech, violence, terrorism promotion, disinformation, invasion of privacy, and content that undermines legal or economic systems.
The Council emphasized safeguarding individual privacy, prohibiting content that incites criminal acts or harms children and youth, and banning false news or forged documents. Advertising content must also respect UAE culture, values, and age-appropriate ratings.
Violations may result in official warnings, fines up to Dh1 million (doubling to Dh2 million for repeated offenses within a year), temporary or permanent media closures, and revocation of licenses, depending on the severity.
The new law reinforces the UAE’s commitment to maintaining a respectful, responsible, and legally compliant media environment that supports national interests and societal wellbeing.
