A new media law officially came into effect in the UAE on May 29, setting out a firm regulatory structure for media activities across the country. With fines reaching up to AED 1 million, the law aims to promote ethical and responsible media content in both digital and traditional spaces.

The legislation outlines a wide range of violations, many with tiered penalties depending on how serious or repeated the offence is. It also includes licensing requirements and updated provisions for content creators, publishers, and media companies operating in the UAE.

Key Offences and Fines under New Media Law in UAE

Religious and Moral Offences

  • Insulting religious beliefs or the Divine Essence: Up to AED 1,000,000
  • Violating public morals or promoting destructive ideas: Up to AED 100,000
  • Content inciting crimes (e.g. murder, rape, drug abuse): Up to AED 150,000

State and National Interests

  • Disrespecting national symbols, ruling system, or state institutions: AED 50,000–500,000
  • Offending domestic/international policies: AED 50,000–500,000
  • Harming foreign relations or social cohesion: Up to AED 250,000

Licensing Violations

Operating without a licence:

  • First offence: AED 10,000
  • Repeated offence: AED 40,000

Failure to renew licence within 30 days: AED 150/day, capped at AED 3,000

Licence transfer or changes without approval: Up to AED 20,000

Publishing with expired licence:

  • First offence: AED 10,000
  • Repeated offence: AED 20,000, doubles with repetition

Misinformation and Publishing Offences

Spreading false information:

  • First offence: AED 5,000
  • Repeated offence: AED 10,000

Organising or obstructing a book fair without permit: AED 40,000, doubles with repetition

Printing or publishing media without a licence: AED 20,000, doubles with repetition

Foreign Correspondents Working without a Licence

  • Up to 3 written warnings
  • Repeated offence: AED 10,000

The new law also introduces protections for media workers and influencers, while encouraging greater accountability and transparency. It reflects the UAE’s ongoing focus on aligning local media practices with global standards.