On July 30, the UAE Media Council introduced a new rule for anyone posting advertisements on social media. A new approval, known as the ‘Advertiser Permit’, will soon be necessary for people who share promotional content online.
This step is part of an effort to make online advertising more clear, trustworthy, and secure for users. It also aims to keep pace with the rapid changes in digital media by setting clear guidelines for how ads should be shared.
The permit will be free for the first three years and will become compulsory in three months, according to the council. While many influencers in the UAE have welcomed the decision, some still have questions about how the rule will be carried out.
On Friday, the UAE Media Council posted on X (formerly Twitter) to answer common questions about the new rule. Here are responses to some of the most asked queries:
Lenovo India
STUDENT5000
Lenovo India
STUDENT2000
10% discount COUPON
DOER
Who needs an Advertiser Permit?
Anyone who posts ads—whether paid or unpaid—on social media, websites, or mobile apps must get the permit.
Do business owners need a permit to promote their own brand?
No, if you’re only advertising your own business or personal project, you don’t need the permit.
But if you pay someone else (like an influencer or marketer) to promote your brand, they must have the permit.
In Video
Shopify
How long does the permit last?
The permit is valid for one year and can be renewed annually.
If you don’t renew it within 30 days after it expires, it will be automatically cancelled.
What licence do I need before applying for the Advertiser Permit?
You must already hold a valid business licence that allows you to do digital marketing or social media advertising.
On Wednesday, the UAE Media Council announced the launch of a new ‘Advertiser Permit’ to help manage and regulate advertisements shared on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp.
Wego Flights & Hotels
Wego Flights
Wego Hotels
Now, any individual who posts promotional content, whether it’s paid or unpaid, will be required to obtain this permit. This new rule is part of a wider effort to increase transparency, raise professional standards, and protect consumers in the digital advertising space.
The goal is to create a flexible and up-to-date system that can adapt to the fast-changing media landscape, by putting clear and structured rules in place for advertising practices.
The Advertiser Permit will be available free for the first three years, and the rule will be enforced in three months. After that, having the permit will become compulsory for anyone involved in online advertising.
Ali Express
Air India
Agoda Hotels
The UAE Media Council has introduced a new ‘Advertiser Permit’ aimed at organizing and improving how advertising is done on social media. This move is part of a broader effort to create a safer, more professional, and transparent online advertising space.
🎯 Key Goals of the Advertiser Permit
- Regulate and boost the online advertising economy
- Improve competition and quality in the digital ad market
- Encourage more investment and content creation in the UAE
- Protect the public from misleading or unapproved advertisements
✅ Who Needs the Permit?
- Anyone posting paid or unpaid promotional content on platforms like Instagram, WhatsApp, YouTube, or websites.
- The permit is mandatory for individuals and influencers in the digital advertising space.
📝 Conditions & Requirements
- Age Requirement: You must be at least 18 years old. (Special conditions may apply for minors.)
- Trade Licence: You need a valid electronic media licence from the Department of Economic Development (DED) or a UAE Free Zone, whether you’re a citizen or resident.
- Under 18? The business activity must be licensed under a legal guardian’s name.
- Visitors: Non-residents can get the permit via a licensed agency in the UAE.
🚫 Who is Exempt?
You don’t need the permit if:
- You’re promoting your own business or brand through your personal account.
- You’re under 18 and involved in educational, sports, cultural, or awareness activities, as long as these comply with age-related rules.
📌 Rules to Follow After Getting the Permit
- You must display your permit number clearly on all your social media profiles.
- You cannot post ads unless your account is registered with the UAE Media Council and linked to your permit.
- Your account must not be used by anyone else to publish ads.
- If any law requires prior approval (e.g., health, food, or financial ads), you must get clearance from relevant authorities before posting.
🌐 How to Apply
Interested influencers, content creators, and advertisers can apply for the permit on the UAE Media Council’s official website:
👉 www.uaemc.gov.ae
🛍️ What About Selling on Social Media?
If you’re using social media to sell products or services, including from home or as an influencer:
- You must have a valid trade or e-commerce licence from DED or a free zone.
- Failing to comply can lead to heavy penalties, including:
- Fines up to AED 500,000
- Confiscation of goods
- Even jail time
⚖️ New Media Law – May 2024 Update
A new media law introduced in May 2024 now oversees all media-related activities in the UAE. It imposes strict rules and fines of up to AED 1 million for offenses like:
- Publishing content without a licence
- Disrespecting religious or cultural values
- Sharing misleading or harmful ads
The new Advertiser Permit is not just a regulation—it’s a step toward creating a trustworthy and well-structured digital media ecosystem in the UAE. Whether you’re a content creator, business owner, or digital marketer, understanding and following these rules is key to staying compliant and building a successful presence online.
Coupons and Promotions
Shop at Amazon
* This article contains affiliate links; if you click such a link and make a purchase, Doer Digitalz FZC may earn a commission.