New Cabinet Decision No. 42 of 2025 On the Regulation of Administrative Violations and Penalties for Acts Committed in Violation of the Provisions of Federal Decree-Law No. 55 of 2023 On Media Regulation and its Executive Regulations applies to persons, establishments, media institutions and media outlets that carry out media activities within the UAE, including free zones.
The Decision outlines two categories of violations and related penalties:
1. Violations related to the practice of media activities. For example, practicing media activity without obtaining a licence or permit; printing, circulating or publishing written, audio or visual media content without obtaining authorisation; displaying any advertisement or promotion without obtaining the approval, etc. The fines range from AED 5,000 for the first violation to AED 50,000 in case of the repetition of a violation.
2. Violations related to the practice of Media Content Standards. This includes, for example, showing disrespect and disrespect for Islamic beliefs, the Government, publishing, broadcasting or circulating materials that violate the sanctity of public moral...