UAE Imposes Fine for Unlicensed Social Media Influencers
The directive extends to government entities engaged in electronic platform advertising.
The Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) announced it will impose fines on social media influencers practicing advertising without a license starting from July 1st.[1]
The ADDED said that social media influencers who offer or promote advertising services without a license will be subjected to fines between AED 3,000 ($817) and AED 10,000 ($2,723), with the possibility of business closure.
The licensing process, facilitated through the Tamm platform under the ADDED requires applicants to specify their activities, including e-platform advertising.
Individuals seeking a license will incur a fee of AED 1,250 ($340.32), while companies will pay AED 5,000 ($1,361). ADDED clarified that even foreign nationals can apply for a license provided they possess an Emirates ID or unified number.
The directive extends to government entities engaged in electronic platform advertising.
The ADDED added that social media influencers must obtain a license, regardless of any existing permits from the National Media Council.
There is currently a total of 543 licensees engaged in e-platform and social media advertising, although the numbers are likely to increase after these policies are put in place.
In January, the Vice President and the Ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, launched a new AED 150 million ($40.84 million) fund for content creators and influencers.
The announcement was accompanied by plans for the establishment of a permanent headquarters tailored for influencers.
The fund is crafted to foster the growth of creativity and positive contributions; thus, offering great benefits for content developers.