Picture this: You’re an influencer in Dubai, Sharjah, or anywhere in the UAE. A brand slides into your DMs with a paid collab offer worth thousands. You hit publish. The likes and comments roll in. Life is good…
Until you get a notice: “You are in violation of Federal Media Law No. 55 of 2023. Penalty up to Dh1 million.”
That’s not fiction. That’s the new reality of influencer marketing in the UAE.
This blog covers:
- The Two Licence Rule Explained
- What Influencers Must Follow to Stay Legal
- Who Needs These Licences
- UAQ FTZ Freelancer Licence @ AED 9,999
- FAQs
- Final Word: Compliance is Key
The Two Licence Rule Explained
For years, influencers only needed an E-media License from the UAE Media Council. Easy enough. But since May 29, 2023, the rules have tightened. Under Federal Media Law No. 55 of 2023, you now need two separate licences before posting any paid content legally.
Business or Freelance Licence: Your Legal Backbone
The first and most critical step is obtaining a Business or Freelance Licence. This licence is your legal foundation — the document that officially allows you to earn money through brand collaborations, affiliate links, product sales, etc.
In the UAE, this licence can be obtained from Free Zones like Umm Al Quwain Free Trade Zone (UAQ FTZ). Licensing fees range from Dh5,000 to Dh15,000, depending on the setup.
It allows you to sponsor a UAE visa, sign contracts, open a business bank account, and more. As of 2024, ADDED has made it mandatory, with fines up to Dh10,000 for operating without it.
E-media License: Your Gateway to Paid Content Legally
Once licensed as a freelancer or business, you must apply for an E-media License through the UAE Media Council. This authorizes you to publish paid content on social platforms legally.
It covers all media content from video ads to podcasts. Crucially, it requires a valid trade licence first. Cost: AED 1,000 per year.
What Influencers Must Follow in the UAE to Stay Legal
Influencers must follow 20 content guidelines to stay legal. Content must not violate UAE values, defame religion or government, or incite public disorder.
Violations can result in blocked content and fines of up to Dh1 million.
These laws aim to create a professional and respectful digital space, not restrict creativity.
Who Needs These Dual Licences?
If you earn money online — as a podcaster, YouTuber, vlogger, or agency — you need both a Trade Licence and an E-media License.
Popular influencer categories include:
- Luxury & Lifestyle
- Tech & Gaming
- Food & Travel
- Fashion & Beauty
- Health & Fitness
- Business & Finance
- Micro-Influencers
UAQ FTZ Freelancer License @ AED 9,999
Umm Al Quwain Free Trade Zone offers influencers and creators one of the best licensing bundles to go fully legal.
Here’s what AED 9,999 includes:
- Freelancer License – Your legal document to work and earn
- UAE Residency Visa
- Emirates ID & Medical Insurance
- Bank Account Assistance
Fast approvals, 100% foreign ownership, and a simplified process make it ideal for solo creators and boutique teams.
FAQs
Do all influencers in the UAE need these two licences?
Yes. If you're earning from any paid content, both licences are required.
What’s the difference between a trade licence and an E-media License?
The trade licence lets you operate as a business. The E-media License lets you publish paid content.
I’m a freelancer or solo creator. How can I comply easily?
Use UAQ FTZ’s bundle for AED 9,999. It’s cost-effective and includes everything you need to go legal.
Final Word: Compliance is Key
Influencer marketing in the UAE is booming — but the rules have changed. Federal Media Law No. 55 of 2023 and Cabinet Resolution No. 41 of 2025 demand dual compliance.
To stay compliant:
- Secure your Trade Licence + E-media License
- Follow the 20 content guidelines
- Avoid fines, content removal, and bans
Want a lean, fast, and cost-effective setup? UAQ FTZ is your shortcut to influencer success in the UAE.
