The UAE Media Council Unveils a Game-Changing System

The UAE Media Council has introduced a comprehensive new system aimed at regulating, empowering, and driving sustainable growth within the media sector. This initiative represents a significant leap forward in the nation’s mission to modernize its media landscape, building on the groundwork laid by the Council’s establishment in February 2023 and the subsequent implementation of the Media Regulation Law and its Executive Regulation.

Leadership Vision for a Future-Ready Media Environment

During a press conference at Creators HQ in Emirates Towers, Dubai, the launch was spearheaded by Mohammed Saeed Al Shehhi, Secretary-General of the UAE Media Council, alongside Maitha Al Suwaidi, CEO of the Strategy and Media Policies Sector. Both leaders underscored that this new framework aligns with the UAE leadership’s vision for an innovative and future-ready media environment that not only keeps pace with global advancements but also reinforces the UAE’s leadership on both regional and international stages.

A Transformative Approach to Media Regulation

Al Shehhi characterized the new media system as transformative, merging updated legislation with streamlined services and inclusive policies aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and promoting sustainable development. He pointed to the Media Regulation Law—celebrated as the first comprehensive media legislation in over four decades—as a pivotal moment for the UAE’s media sector. This law addresses contemporary challenges and opportunities, including digital media, artificial intelligence, on-demand platforms, gaming, and other emerging fields.

Collaboration and Flexibility at Its Core

Developed over two years in collaboration with federal and local entities, media professionals, content creators, and international experts, this system is built on a partnership-based approach. Al Shehhi emphasized its flexibility and responsiveness to change, its capacity to empower local talent, and its potential to attract investment and foster innovation. He also highlighted the importance of content, advocating for clear standards that ensure responsible and balanced media reflecting Emirati values while encouraging creative impact.

Driving Economic Growth Through Media

The ultimate goal, according to Al Shehhi, is to transform the media sector into a significant contributor to the national economy, enhancing GDP and boosting the UAE’s global competitiveness. By combining strategic partnerships, flexible regulations, and incentivized exemptions, the system is crafted to create an enabling environment for content creators and media businesses alike.

A Legislative Roadmap for a Dynamic Media Ecosystem

Echoing this vision, Maitha Al Suwaidi stated that the UAE Media Council is leading a comprehensive transformation of the national media framework. She emphasized a legislative roadmap tailored to the evolving needs of the sector, ensuring a dynamic and globally aligned media ecosystem. This roadmap extends beyond legal texts to encompass policies and decisions that address the realities of modern media while remaining anchored in national values.

Key Features of the New System

Among the notable features of the new system is a resolution to regulate social media advertising by individuals. This initiative aims to build trust and elevate content quality, including a three-year exemption from permit fees for content creators. Another significant aspect is the introduction of a unified age rating system for media content, designed to protect children and adolescents amid the increasing consumption of digital content.

Enhancing Journalistic Credibility

Additionally, Al Suwaidi announced that the Council is developing a new licensing policy for digital news platforms, aimed at establishing clear standards that enhance journalistic credibility and accountability. Further regulatory advancements include the adoption of Cabinet resolutions on media service fees and administrative penalties, which seek to create a transparent, accessible, and integrated service system aligned with the UAE’s digital government vision.

Empowering Local Content Creators

She also highlighted the significance of the local content empowerment policy, which supports Emirati creatives and prioritizes national content. This includes fee exemptions for selected services to encourage local production and storytelling that reflects the country’s identity and values.

A Defining Moment for the UAE’s Media Landscape

In conclusion, Al Suwaidi described the new legislative system as a defining moment in the evolution of the UAE’s media landscape. By promoting transparency, professionalism, and quality, this framework provides media institutions and content creators with a robust platform for production, innovation, and international competitiveness.