Today's Edition
MAYS IBRAHIM (ABU DHABI)
Content creators in the UAE have started applying for the Advertiser Permit launched on Wednesday, embracing it as a crucial step towards legal clarity and professional recognition in the fast-growing content economy.
Introduced by the UAE Media Council, the permit will take effect in three months and applies to anyone engaged in paid or unpaid promotional work online, including visitors.
Exemptions apply to those promoting their own products, services, or company, and to under-18s engaged in educational, athletic, cultural, or awareness activities.
The permit is free for the first three years, and holders must display their permit number on all social media accounts and platforms.
Speaking with Aletihad, Ahmad Al Jamal, a UAE-based entrepreneur, content creator, and economic expert, noted that this regulatory move would ultimately support sustainable growth in the content economy.
“The content economy is globally promising, and the government’s proactive approach in regulating this industry will ensure its sustainability and position the UAE as an attractive destination for content creators and entrepreneurs,” he said.
Al Jamal noted that licensing boosts the credibility of content creators, earning them audience trust and professional recognition, which leads to more collaboration opportunities and increased income.
The Advertiser Permit establishes clear standards and expectations for digital advertising in the UAE, according to Al Jamal.
“When applying for the permit, creators are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the country’s media rules and best practices, with guiding videos they must watch to move to the next step in the application,” he explained.
This licensing process benefits regulators, creators, and viewers by creating a healthier, more sustainable industry, added Al Jamal.
Emirati entrepreneur and content creator Yousuf Saleh Abdulla also believes that the permit will open new doors for entrepreneurship in content creation.
“With a clear and official framework now in place, content creators in the UAE can work with more confidence and earn greater trust from public and private entities,” Abdulla told Aletihad.
Abdulla believes that this regulatory move reflects a government vision to transform digital creation into a real thriving economy, underpinned by professionalism and transparency.
“From my own experience, the industry has become more organised and business-focused. Regulation and licensing elevate content creation from a hobby to a serious profession, creating new growth opportunities.”
Abdulla noted that licensing shows that the UAE recognises content creators as key players in shaping its media landscape, not just as entertainers, but as contributors to the country’s digital image and public dialogue.
