The deadline for issuing a social media license in Abu Dhabi has been clarified

Starting July 1, the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) has ordered all social media companies and influencers to obtain appropriate licenses to participate in advertising on websites and social media platforms, the state news agency reported. YOU.

The requirement ensures compliance with local regulations and aims to bring order to the rapidly changing digital advertising landscape, the ADDED notification quoted.

ADDED has appealed to all business entities and social media influencers to comply with the requirement for social media influencers to obtain a license from the department to provide advertising services through electronic platforms.

She also emphasized that failure to comply with the regulations and conditions when concluding contracts with influencers and social networking sites exposes influencers to the penalties and fines provided for therein.

Fines will range from Dhs3,000 to Dhs10,000. Failure to comply may even lead to the closure of the company due to ignoring ADDED circulars.

Why is Abu Dhabi enforcing these licensing regulations?

The aim is to regulate advertising activities and maintain standards in the emerging field of digital marketing.

These regulations aim to ensure that both businesses and influencers operate within the law, promoting transparency and accountability in the industry.

Who is required to obtain these licenses?

Licenses are mandatory for:

• Individual social media influencers operating in Abu Dhabi.
• Groups or collectives of influential people cooperating within a registered company.
• Companies engaging influencers for promotional activities.

What fees are associated with an influencer license?

The cost of obtaining the required licenses through ADDED’s Tamm platform is as follows:

• Individual influencers: Dhs1,250.
• Companies or groups of influencers: 5,000 Dhs.

What are the penalties for non-compliance?

Unlicensed social media influencers and companies can be fined up to Dhs10,000. Businesses may also be closed down if they are found to be operating without the required permits.

Are additional licenses required?

Yes, influencers operating in Abu Dhabi must also obtain permission from the UAE Media Council. This dual requirement ensures compliance with local and national media guidelines.

How can you apply for these licenses?

Applications can be submitted via the Tamm website, which is the official portal for Abu Dhabi government services.

This process involves registration and payment of applicable licensing fees for an individual or company.

What benefits do these licenses offer?

Having the appropriate licenses allows influencers and businesses to:

• Legally engage in advertising and promotional activities on digital platforms.
• Ensuring compliance with Abu Dhabi regulatory standards.
• Avoid potential fines and legal issues associated with operating without a license.
• We are contributing to a more transparent and regulated digital advertising environment.

What should influencers operating outside Abu Dhabi pay attention to?

Influencers deriving revenue from social media posts anywhere in the UAE must also obtain a license from the National Media Council. Licensing requirements and costs vary across the emirates:

• Dubai: It requires both a UAE Media Council license and an individual freelance trade license, with total costs up to Dhs30,000.
• Ras Al Khaimah: It offers a social media influencer license for Dhs3,550 per year, including approval from the National Media Council.
• Ajman: It provides licences from Dhs2,500 for individuals and Dhs10,000 for companies, with an additional Dhs260 subject to approval by the National Media Council.

How have these regulations been received by the industry?

Many industry professionals and marketing agencies support these regulations, seeing them as necessary to maintain standards and compliance.

These rules are seen as beneficial for ensuring transparency and accountability in the rapidly evolving field of influencer marketing.

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