The UAE Media Council announced during the 14th International Government Communication Forum, taking place in Sharjah on September 10-11 under the theme “Communication for Quality of Life,” that it has issued over 1,800 “Advertiser” permits. This initiative aims to enhance and regulate advertising activities across social media platforms nationwide, further establishing the UAE as a global hub for advertising content production.
The remarkable demand for the “Advertiser” permit is propelling the council towards its key objectives: supporting investments in the advertising content industry, enhancing the competitiveness of the digital advertising sector, inviting and empowering creative talents, and protecting the public from substandard advertisements that do not meet established standards and prevailing societal values.
Additionally, the UAE Media Council introduced the “Advertiser Permit Guide” for 2025, designed to govern the advertisement content on social media. This guide outlines the procedures and steps for obtaining permits for advertisers, including citizens, residents, visitors, and businesses, once they meet the necessary criteria. It also details the various entities authorized to issue permits in each emirate and highlights diverse business activities that qualify for permits, such as advertising services via websites and social media platforms, e-commerce, and marketing management.
Mohammed Saeed Al Shahi, the Secretary-General of the UAE Media Council, emphasized that the UAE continues to foster a vibrant and integrated media environment that empowers creators, attracts talents, and draws investments, yielding a lasting positive impact on all.
He noted that the regulation of the advertising industry fits into this context, enhancing a fundamental pillar of the media industry and effective communication mechanisms, thus contributing to the quality of life for individuals and communities.
The Secretary-General highlighted that the issuance of over 1,800 “Advertiser” permits from 75 countries demonstrates the council’s responsiveness to the aspirations of advertisers on social media platforms, both individuals and companies, while meeting a community need for safe content that observes standards of quality and professionalism.
Regarding the launch of the “Advertiser Permit Guide,” Al Shahi stated: “The guide released by the UAE Media Council today provides a clear and transparent framework for creators and companies in the advertising industry, encouraging them to register in order to ensure a recognized regulatory framework for their advertising production in the digital space, capitalizing on the exceptional opportunities that the UAE offers at both regional and global levels, given its talents, resources, and investments in this vital sector.”
The guide outlines key advertising conditions and criteria for selecting personal account names for permit holders. It categorizes the types of permits available, which include permits for both citizens and residents, valid for one year and renewable, while visitor permits are issued for three months, extendable up to six months, to promote direct investment in the advanced advertising sector within the country.