The new UAE social media influencer law has called for mandatory advertiser permits that every influencer and content creator needs to understand before their next sponsored post. These regulations apply to influencers and entities earning money through social media promotions in the Emirates, covering a wide range of media, including print, digital ads, and online publications.
Getting caught without proper permits can lead to hefty fines and legal trouble, making compliance essential for your business. We’ll break down exactly what the advertiser permit is and who must obtain one.
What is an Advertiser Permit?
The advertiser permit is a mandatory permit issued under Federal Media Law No. 55 of 2023, which requires influencers to register before promoting products online, whether paid or unpaid.
As highlighted across recent UAE news, this new rule is implemented under a broad plan to ensure advertising activities comply with local standards, support the growing influencer ecosystem, and increase investment.
Who Needs the Permit?
Whether you’re an individual, a social media marketing agency in Abu Dhabi, or a corporation, if you are publishing promotional content in the UAE, you are required to get the advertiser permit. Individuals posting non-commercial, personal content or promoting their own product are exempt from getting a permit. Additionally, minors under 18 who make educational, cultural, or awareness-related content are also not required to apply for the permit.
How to get an advertiser permit?
Before applying for an advertiser permit, influencers will need a trade license, which will give them a legal commercial foundation. Influencers or new businesses looking to get a trade license can reach out to Ventaraa for assistance.
Assuming you already have a trade license, here is what you are required to do next.
- Visit the UAE Media Council Website.
- Log in using UAE Pass
- Go to the “Media License Service” and select “Issuing License.”
- Fill in the application & upload the necessary documents.
- You will be required to provide basic details, including your Emirates ID, photos, trade license, and links to your social media accounts.
- Submit the application.
- You will receive the permit electronically within 15 days.
Fees
- First three years – Free
- Fourth year – AED 1000
- Visitor permit – AED 500 (Valid for the first three months)
- Visitor permit (Renewal) – AED 500 (For next three months)
Penalties and Consequences of Non-Compliance
- Influencers may face hefty fines ranging from AED 10,000 to AED 100,000 depending on the severity.
- Authorities can order the immediate removal of non-compliant content across all social media platforms.
- Your account can also get suspended.
How Can an Influencer Stay Compliant?
- There are 20 mandatory content guidelines that influencers must adhere to.
- Avoid making content that promotes alcohol or disrespects religious beliefs.
- Sponsored content must be labelled as “Ad ” or “Paid Partnership.”
- The official permit must be displayed on the social media profile bio.
Conclusion
Understanding these new advertiser permit requirements is critical for any influencer operating in the UAE market. The permit system affects content creators who earn money from promotions, whether you’re a micro-influencer, a major celebrity endorser, or an entity.
As the UAE strengthens its influencer marketing regulations, brands and creators can no longer afford to treat compliance as an afterthought. This is where working with Adapts Media can bring you the real difference. As one of the best marketing agencies in the UAE, we help brands collaborate with compliant creators, manage campaigns, and stay aligned with the latest regulations without compromising creativity or reach.
FAQ
There is no minimum count. The requirement is based on the activity and not your popularity.
Yes, you are required to obtain an advertiser permit, even if you only engage in affiliate marketing.
It is valid for one year.
