Starting July 1st, 2024, new regulations in Abu Dhabi mandate that all businesses with a license must comply with updated requirements when engaging social media influencers for advertising or running ads on social media platforms and websites.

What does that mean ? Essentially, both businesses and influencers now need to acquire licenses from the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) to legally participate in advertising activities on digital platforms. Furthermore, businesses can only collaborate with influencers who also hold a valid license.

This significant change is intended to regulate advertising activities and ensure compliance in the face of the rapidly evolving digital advertising and content marketing landscape within the Emirate.

Key Points to retain: 

Is licensing mandatory? Yes, both businesses and social media influencers need licenses for advertising activities.

What are the penalties for non-compliance? Fines of up to AED 10,000 and possible business closure can be imposed.

How much does are the license fees cost ? AED 1,250 for individuals and AED 5,000 for businesses.

Are there any exemptions to this new regulation ? No, all entities operating in the Emirate, including government companies, need this license.

What about branches of companies outside of Abu Dhabi? Companies with headquarters located outside of Abu Dhabi but operating branches within the emirate are also obligated to secure the necessary permits from the ADDED if they intend to engage in any advertising activities within Abu Dhabi.

Source:

 Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021 on Combating Rumors and Cybercrimes, United Arab Emirates. Retrieved from https://legaladviceme.com/legislation/165/uae-federal-decree-law-34-2021-countering-rumors-cybercrimes