UAE Enacts Sweeping Media Law with Penalties Up to Dh1 Million to Uphold Ethical Standards
Nisna K Muhammed
Senior Legal Correspondent
June 3, 2025 – Dubai
The United Arab Emirates has implemented a comprehensive media regulation framework effective May 29, 2025, introducing stringent penalties for violations related to media content and operations. The law formalised under Federal Decree-Law No. 55 of 2023 and detailed in Cabinet Decision No. 42 of 2025, aims to promote ethical, respectful and responsible media practices across the nation.
Key Offences and Penalties
The legislation outlines various offences with corresponding fines:
- Religious and Moral Violations: Insulting the Divine Essence, Islamic beliefs, or other religions can result in fines up to Dh1, 000,000
- Public Morals: Violating public morals or promoting destructive ideas may incur fines up to Dh100, 000.
- Incitement to Crime: Publishing content that incites crimes such as murder, rape, or drug abuse can lead to fines up to Dh150, 000.
- State and National Interests: Disrespecting the ruling system, national symbols, or state institutions carries fines ranging from Dh50, 000 to Dh500, 000. Content harming foreign relations or undermining national unity may attract fines up to Dh250, 000.
- Licensing Violations: Operating media activities without a license results in a Dh10, 000 fine for the first offence and Dh40, 000 for repeated offences. Failure to renew a license within 30 days incurs a daily fine of Dh150, capped at Dh3, 000.
- Misinformation: Disseminating false information attracts a fine of Dh5, 000 for the first offence and Dh10, 000 for repeated offences.
- Event and Publishing Violations: Organising or obstructing a book fair without a permit leads to a Dh40, 000 fines, which double with repetition. Printing or publishing media content without a license incurs a Dh20, 000 fine, also doubles with repetition.
- Foreign Correspondents: Working as a foreign correspondent without a license can result in up to three written warnings, followed by a Dh10, 000 fines for repeated offences.
Enforcement and Oversight
The UAE Media Council is tasked with enforcing the new regulations, ensuring compliance across all media platforms, including digital and traditional outlets. The law also introduces provisions to protect media personnel and influencers, promoting transparency and accountability within the industry.
Conclusion
This legislative development underscores the UAE's commitment to fostering a responsible media environment that aligns with national values and legal standards. Media entities and professionals are urged to familiarize themselves with the new regulations to ensure compliance and avoid substantial penalties.
