The UAE Media Council has taken a big move by announcing an Advertiser Permit for Influencers to regulate ads and manage online content as the digital world keeps growing. The rule applies to all individuals creating promotional content on social media, whether the content is paid or unpaid. The goal is to build a transparent, professional, and high-quality digital media environment that matches the fast changes happening in the industry.
The governemnet has designed the new permit system not only to protect the audience but also to empower influencers, encourage investment in the media sector, and attract talented content creators from around the world. The Advertiser Permit will become mandatory in three months, giving influencers and digital marketers time to register. The authorities will issue the permit free of any charge for the first three years, and it applies to both UAE-based and visiting content creators.
What is the Advertiser Permit for Influencers?
The UAE Media Council introdeuced the advertiser Permit for those who promote products, services, or brands on social media. Whether it is a paid or unpaid post, you’ll now need to register and get this permit if you are inside the UAE. The main purpose behind this is to:
- Improve the quality of advertising content.
- Ensuring transparency and professionalism.
- Protecting public rights and audiences.
- Strengthening trust between influencers, advertisers, and followers.
When Will the Advertiser Permit Start? – Advertiser Permit for Influencers to Regulate Ads
The Advertiser Permit will take effect in three months from the announcement, which was made in late July 2025. The grace period is meant to give all people involved in digital advertising enough time to become aware of the news, align their status, and apply for the required documentation.
Who Needs the Advertiser Permit? – Advertiser Permit for Influencers to Regulate Ads
Individuals who post advertising or promotional content, whether paid or unpaid, on their personal or business accounts must obtain the advertiser permit, including the following,
- Influencers.
- Freelancers.
- Digital Marketers.
- Brand Ambassadors.
- Foreign Influencers visiting the UAE for collaboration.
Who Is Exempt from the Advertiser Permit?
You don’t need to get an Advertiser permit if you are promoting your own business, service, or product using your account. Also, if you are under 18 and engaged with educational or awareness content, you don’t need a permit.
What Are the Main Conditions for the Advertiser Permit? – Advertiser Permit for Influencers to Regulate Ads
Individuals who come under the advertiser permit must follow several rules,
- Display the permit number on their social media accounts.
- Only post ads through accounts that are registered with the Media Council.
- You can not post ads on someone else’s registered account.
- You need approvals for the health and finance industries.
- Avoid content that violates the UAE’s media standards.
Why Is Advertiser Permit Important?
The UAE Media Council is planning on building a safe and investment-friendly content economy. Secretary General H.E. Mohammed Saeed Al Shehhi highlighted that with advertiser permits, it will support the country’s strategic goal of becoming a global hub for digital talent. The UAE Media Council is also working to,
- Launch a list of approved advertising and talent agencies.
- Introduce age rating systems for online content.
- Modernize media policies to include digital news, AI, and gaming.
Where to Apply for “Advertiser Permit’?
Interested social media influencers can apply through the website www.uaemc.gov.ae, or you can contact Al Riyady for further assistance regarding the permit and how you can apply.
Will There Be a Fee to Get an Advertiser Permit?
The Advertiser Permit is free for the first three years, which means there will be no cost of getting the permit. After that, renewal procedures and fees will be announced, which will offer flexibility and support to new, growing creators.
What Is a Visitor Advertiser Permit?
Content creators who are visiting the UAE will have to get a special Visitor Advertiser Permit to post promotional content. The permit you receive is valid for only 3 months and you can renew it once for another 3 months. The application for this permit must be made via a licensed advertising or talent agency that the UAE Media Council must approve. Permit requirements for foreigners mean that even short-term campaigns must meet national guidelines, which are for professionalism and public safety.
What About Existing Permits?
Those who already have a valid media or influencer license in the UAEl will have it remain valid until it expires. After that, you can renew your permit under the updated framework.
Wind-up
The UAE Announces Advertiser Permit for Influencers to Regulate Ads which is a major step forward in regulating and professionalizing influencer marketing and digital ads. The purpose of the advertiser permit is to make sure content creators operate within a legal framework while helping brands and agencies. The three-month grace period, free license for three years, and specific visitor guidelines make it easier for creators. If you are looking to get an Advertiser Permit, Al Riyady can help you with the process.
