The UAE Media Council has issued more than 1,800 “Advertiser” permits as part of a nationwide initiative to strengthen and regulate advertising activity on social media platforms. The announcement was made at the 14th International Government Communication Forum in Sharjah, highlighting a significant step towards creating a more structured and competitive digital media environment.
Strengthening The Digital Ad Ecosystem
The strong demand for the permit, with applicants from 75 countries, underscores the initiative’s success in achieving its key objectives. The program is designed to support investment in local advertising content production, boost the digital advertising sector’s competitiveness, and attract creative talent to the UAE. A primary goal is also to protect the public from misleading or low-quality advertisements that do not meet the country’s standards and societal values.
Launch Of The Advertiser Permit Guide 2025
Coinciding with this milestone, the Council also launched the “Advertiser Permit Guide 2025.” This guide provides a clear and transparent framework for regulating advertising content on social media. It details the application procedures for citizens, residents, visiting advertisers, and companies, outlining the required criteria for eligibility. The guide also specifies the authorized entities in each emirate responsible for issuing permits and lists the various business activities that can apply, including e-commerce, marketing management, and digital advertising services.
A Framework For Local And Global Talent
Mohammed Saeed Al Shehhi, Secretary-General of the UAE Media Council, emphasized the initiative’s role in building a vibrant and integrated media ecosystem. He stated, “The guide provides a transparent regulatory framework that encourages companies and creatives to register. It ensures that digital advertising production aligns with UAE’s approved standards.”
The framework offers different permit types to accommodate various advertisers. Citizens and residents can obtain annual permits that are renewable each year. To encourage direct investment and attract global talent, visiting advertisers can access permits valid for three months, which are extendable up to six months, offering flexibility for short-term campaigns and projects.
About The UAE Media Council
The UAE Media Council is the federal body responsible for developing and regulating the media sector in the United Arab Emirates. Its mandate includes creating a legislative and regulatory environment that promotes the growth of the media industry, supports local talent, attracts international media companies, and ensures that media content aligns with the nation’s values and standards.
Source: GCC Startup News
