UAE Implements New Media Law: Fines Up to Dh1 Million for Violations

A new media law has officially taken effect in the UAE as of May 29, 2025, bringing with it a comprehensive regulatory framework for all media activities in the country. The law imposes strict penalties of up to Dh1 million, covering a broad spectrum of offences across religious, ethical, national, and operational domains.

This legislation reflects the UAE’s ongoing efforts to uphold ethical standards, respect for public values, and responsible journalism within the media and influencer ecosystem, both online and offline. Many offences are subject to tiered fines that escalate with the severity or repetition of violations.

Key Offences and Penalties

Religious and Moral Violations

• Insulting religious beliefs (including Islamic beliefs and other heavenly religions): Up to Dh1,000,000

• Violating public morals or promoting destructive ideas: Up to Dh100,000

• Publishing content inciting crimes (e.g., murder, rape, drug abuse): Up to Dh150,000

Offences Against State and National Interests

• Disrespecting ruling system, national symbols, or state institutions: Dh50,000 to Dh500,000

• Criticizing UAE’s domestic or foreign policies: Dh50,000 to Dh500,000

• Publishing content that threatens national unity or harms foreign relations: Up to Dh250,000

Licensing Violations

• Operating media without a licence:

  • First offence: Dh10,000

  • Repeated offence: Dh40,000

  Failure to renew a licence within 30 days: Dh150 per day (capped at Dh3,000)

  Unauthorised licence transfer or partner changes: Up to Dh20,000

  Publishing with an expired licence:

  • First offence: Dh10,000

  • Repeated: Dh20,000, with doubling on further repetition

  False Information and Misinformation

  • Spreading false information:

    • First offence: Dh5,000

    • Repeated offence: Dh10,000

    Event and Publishing Infractions

    • Organising book fairs without permits: Dh40,000, with doubling for repeated offences

    • Publishing or circulating unlicensed media content: Dh20,000, doubles on repetition

    Foreign Correspondents

    • Working without a licence:

      • Up to three written warnings

      • Repeated offence: Dh10,000 fine

      Regulation for Media Personnel and Influencers

      The new media law also includes protective provisions for media workers and content creators, while introducing stricter guidelines to ensure transparency, accountability, and professionalism across the digital and traditional media sectors.

      Authorities have emphasized that the law seeks to safeguard freedom of expression within the framework of UAE values, while ensuring that content disseminated across platforms contributes positively to society.

      For individuals and entities involved in media activities, staying informed and compliant with the new regulations is essential to avoid penalties and support the country's vision for a responsible media environment.