UAE media law now in full force: What you can and can't say as fines reach Dh1 million

TL;DR:

• UAE 's media law, active since May 29, 2025, imposes fines up to Dh1 million for insulting religious beliefs or violating content norms.

• Licensing is now mandatory for all content creators, influencers, journalists, and publishers.

• Fines also apply to misinformation, unlicensed media events, and violations of moral or national values.

• Repeat offenders face double penalties, suspension, or shutdowns.

With two months having passed since the UAE enacted its sweeping Federal Decree-Law No. 55 of 2023, the new media regulations are no longer just legislation on paper. As of late July 2025, enforcement is in full swing. Media professionals, influencers, and even occasional content creators are now under tighter scrutiny by the UAE Media Council and related authorities.

Those who remain unaware or non-compliant could now be facing heavy fines or worse, licence suspensions and criminal liability.

Overview of the Law
Signed into effect on May 29, 2025, the UAE’s media law governs all forms of media, from news outlets and radio broadcasters to TikTokers, Instagram influencers, YouTubers, podcasters, and publishing houses.

The law lays out strict penalties for a wide array of violations, especially:

• Insulting religious beliefs or promoting religious hatred (up to Dh1 million fine or $272,300)
  
  
• Violating public morality or social harmony (up to Dh250,000 or $68,075)
  
  
• Disrespecting national symbols or institutions
  
  
• Publishing false news or unlicensed content

Licensing: Now Non-Negotiable
Whether you’re a social media influencer, a podcast host, or an independent journalist, you must now be licensed to legally operate in the UAE.

Under Cabinet Decision No. 41 of 2025, these licences are issued by the UAE Media Council and apply to:

• Content creators (including social media personalities)
  
  
• Event organisers
  
  
• Journalists and media correspondents
  
  
• Publishers and film distributors
  
  

Key penalties for non-compliance as mentioned in local news outlet Khaleej Times:

• Dh10,000 ($2,723) fine for first violation
  
  
• Up to Dh40,000 ($10,892) for repeated offences
  
  
• Dh20,000 ($5,446) for operating with expired licences
  
  
• Daily fines for delays in renewal or corrections

Offences and Penalties: What You Should Avoid
Here’s what can get you into legal trouble:

• Religious Insults

Any content: text, video, audio that offends Islam or other recognized religions can lead to Dh250,000–Dh1 million ($68,075-$272,300) in fines.

• Misinformation and Rumours

Spreading unverified claims or misleading news could cost you Dh5,000 ($1,362) for a first offence, and Dh10,000 ($2,723) if repeated.

• Moral Violations

Content that contradicts UAE’s public decency codes, including sexually suggestive material or hate speech may draw Dh100,000+ ($27,230) in fines.

• Undermining State Interests

Disrespecting national unity, leadership, or institutions, even subtly, can lead to Dh50,000–Dh500,000 ($13,615-$ 136,150) in fines.

• Hosting Unauthorised Media Events

If you host book launches, press events, or film screenings without prior licensing, you face Dh40,000–Dh200,000 in penalties.

Repeated Offences Can Shut You Down

• Fines double for repeat violations (up to Dh2 million)
  
  
• The UAE Media Council can suspend your licence for up to 6 months
  
  
• Permanent closure of your media channel, website, or page is allowed if violations persist
  
  
• Legal action, including jail time is possible for serious breaches
  
  

Why This Matters
UAE authorities are actively monitoring content across platforms. Several creators have already received warnings for:

• Failing to display their official media licence
  
  
• Commenting on sensitive religious or national topics without factual backing
  
  
• Hosting giveaways or commercial partnerships without disclosure
  
  

In a fast-changing online environment, the new law provides clarity, structure, and legal protection but only for those who play by the rules.

The UAE’s new media law establishes a stringent, unified regulatory environment, ensuring that content across platforms aligns with national priorities. By imposing severe penalties, particularly for insulting religious sentiments and formalizing licensing under the Media Council, the country underscores its commitment to protecting societal values and promoting professional conduct within the media landscape.

FAQ

• 1. Who needs a media licence in the UAE?

Anyone who creates public-facing content, including influencers, journalists, publishers, podcast hosts, and event organizers, must obtain a licence through the UAE Media Council.

• 2. What’s the fine for insulting religious beliefs?

Fines start at Dh5,000 and can reach up to Dh1 million, depending on the severity and recurrence of the violation.

• 3. Can my Instagram account be suspended under this law?

Yes, if you’re found repeatedly violating media rules, especially around licensing, misinformation, or prohibited content, authorities can suspend or shut down your platform.

• 4. What counts as ‘misinformation’?

Any news, video, or claim shared without verified sources or contrary to official UAE facts. Even unintentional spreading of rumours can lead to fines.

• 5. Is this law applicable to expats and freelancers?

Yes, the law applies regardless of nationality, and to both individual freelancers and registered media companies operating in the UAE.