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Under Article 21 of the UAE Cyber Crimes Act and Articles 378 and 379 of the UAE Criminal Code, taking images or recording people without their consent is prohibited. However, taking photographs of public places and monuments is allowed, as long as you don't focus on specific individuals or groups.
In the Emirates, Federal Law Decree 38 of 2021 on copyright states that, if a person takes a photo where other people appear, they have no right to publish or distribute it without the consent of the people who appear in the image.
If you want to record in Dubai, you need to apply for a license, which was introduced to promote responsible and balanced media content, protecting the public from negative or harmful material.
In 2018, the United Arab Emirates implemented regulation for the influencer sector, requiring a license from those who receive compensation for their content. This license must be requested from the National Media Council (NMC).
The license is valid for one year and costs 15,000 AED (approximately 1,400 euros). All influencers who carry out paid promotions or generate commercial content must obtain this license, which is applicable to platforms such as TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, and others.
It's critical that influencers comply with local regulations, including the prohibition of misleading language and the promotion of alcoholic beverages.
To obtain the license, you can visit the NMC website and apply online. If you partner with an NMC certified influencer agency, you won't have to worry about licensing costs. International influencers can also request it, as long as they meet the requirements established by UAE laws.
The license application process requires a series of documents and steps similar to those of opening a company in a free zone. Required documents include:
- Complete application form
. Copy of passport
- Copy of the visa
- Photocopy of Emirates ID
- Two passport-size color photographs
In addition, you must be at least 25 years old to purchase this license.
1. Select a legal structure (such as a company in a free zone).
2. Request registration of the license.
3. Submit the required documentation.
4. Make the corresponding payment.
The initial cost of the license is 15,000 AED, but may increase depending on the license category, type of business and location.
Standalone license: designed for individual influencers, it allows you to manage promotional content in a personal way.
License of electronic media or agencies: aimed at media companies that manage multiple influencers.
The total cost, including all additional expenses, can range from 20,000 to 30,000 AED (between 5,000 and 7,500 euros) if you are not associated with a registered influencer agency.
Sharing photos of people without their consent is considered a serious crime. If you post photos without permission, you could face fines of between 150,000 AED (about 37,000 euros) and 500,000 AED (124,000 euros), in addition to up to six months in prison.
For doing paid work without an influencer's license, you could be fined 5,000 AED (500 euros), and in serious cases, your social media accounts may be suspended.
If you want to make a professional video or an advertisement, you'll need a specific license and work with an authorized production company to make the film.
If you are planning a short stay, you may not need to obtain an influencer license, but if you have an extended stay, it is recommended that you purchase it.
Avoid recording in areas with high purchasing power, as security is tighter.
Use a cell phone or a GoPro instead of a professional camera so as not to attract attention.
Don't use drones without permission, as flying them requires a special permit and being a resident of the UAE.
If you're an influencer in Dubai and you generate income through your posts, it's essential that you apply for an influencer license to comply with local regulations.
At Gestoría Ibérico, we are specialists in business opening and legal procedures in Dubai. Contact us if you need assistance with the process.
