UAE to impose hefty fines on unlicensed influencers starting July 1
New Regulation Requires Permits for Advertising by UAE Entities and Influencers
Abu Dhabi: Abu Dhabi's Department of Economic Development (ADDED) has announced stringent new regulations set to take effect from July 1st, requiring licensed economic establishments and social media influencers to secure permits for engaging in advertising services. According to Emirates News Agency (WAM), ADDED emphasized that fines could reach up-to AED10,000, and businesses could face closure for non-compliance with the new licensing requirements.
In a statement to WAM, ADDED specified that individual establishments would be charged AED1,250 for a license, while businesses would pay AED5,000. The department outlined that applications for these permits can be conveniently submitted via the TAMM digital platform, where entities can select their desired activities, including advertising services on electronic platforms.
Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development calls on licensed economic establishments to comply with relevant controls & conditions when contracting with social media influencers#WamNews https://t.co/FlwmfFvDCA pic.twitter.com/mliT8u3EvJ
— WAM English (@WAMNEWS_ENG) June 19, 2024
Foreigners residing outside the UAE can also obtain licenses provided they possess an Emirates ID card or a UAE Unified Number, ADDED clarified. The regulations apply uniformly, with no exceptions for government entities or branches of companies based outside Abu Dhabi, all of whom must obtain the necessary permits from ADDED to operate in the emirate.
ADDED underscored that even social media influencers accredited by the UAE Media Council must obtain ADDED's permits to practice advertising services on electronic platforms, emphasizing that adherence is crucial to avoid penalties. Currently, there are 543 licenses issued for advertising services on electronic platforms and social media, a number expected to rise post-implementation.
ADDED urged all economic entities and influencers to comply with these new requirements, noting that failure to do so could result in fines ranging from AED3,000 to AED10,000, and potentially lead to business closure. This move is part of ADDED's broader efforts to foster a regulated economic environment in Abu Dhabi, safeguard consumer rights, and optimize business conditions in the emirate.