Abu Dhabi: The UAE Media Council launched a comprehensive system aimed at regulating, empowering, and stimulating growth within the media sector. This initiative builds on the Council's transformative journey, initiated with its establishment in February 2023, and the subsequent issuance of the Media Regulation Law and its Executive Regulation.
According to Emirates News Agency, the announcement was made at a press conference held at Creators HQ in Emirates Towers, Dubai. The event was attended by Mohammed Saeed Al Shehhi, Secretary-General of the UAE Media Council, and Maitha Al Suwaidi, CEO of Strategy and Media Policies Sector at the UAE Media Council. Al Shehhi highlighted the Council's commitment to launching a new media system aligned with the UAE leadership's vision for a modern and integrated media landscape. This system aims to drive a transformative shift in the UAE's media sector, ensuring continued regional and global leadership.
Al Shehhi elaborated that the new system transforms media regulation and development by combining updated legislation, comprehensive media services, and policies across various sectors to enhance efficiency and sustainable growth. He noted that the Media Regulation Law and its Executive Regulation represent a milestone for a new era of competitiveness and leadership for the UAE media sector, establishing a solid foundation for a future-proof media landscape.
Developed over two years, the system reflects collaboration with federal and local entities, media organisations, content creators, and international experts. Al Shehhi emphasized that this partnership-based legislation is grounded in practical application and aims to empower talent, foster innovation, and attract investment.
Al Shehhi further stated that the new media system prioritizes content as the industry's core, incorporating standards for responsible and balanced content that respects values and identity while promoting creativity and impact. He concluded by underscoring the goal to empower the media sector as a driving force for development and a vital economic engine contributing to national GDP and enhancing the UAE's competitiveness.
Maitha Al Suwaidi asserted that the UAE Media Council is leading a transformation of the national media landscape through a comprehensive legislative roadmap designed to modernize the regulatory framework and create a flexible environment. This roadmap goes beyond traditional legal frameworks by including policies and regulatory decisions that address challenges and opportunities presented by new media.
A notable component of the system is a resolution regulating social media advertising by individuals, aimed at building public trust and improving online media content quality. It also supports content creators with a three-year exemption from permit fees. Additionally, a comprehensive age rating system for media content is being implemented to protect children and adolescents from inappropriate material.
Al Suwaidi highlighted a new policy under development for licensing digital news platforms, which will establish guidelines to enhance credibility and ensure adherence to journalistic standards. She also mentioned the adoption of Cabinet resolutions on media service fees and violations, aiming for a unified and transparent media services system.
Emphasizing local content empowerment, Al Suwaidi noted that the system prioritizes Emirati talent and creative projects, with fee exemptions for media services supporting local producers and writers. She concluded that this legislative system represents a pivotal moment in the development of a modern Emirati media landscape, providing a robust regulatory structure for media organisations and content creators.