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UAE sets up National Media Authority, unifying oversight of media sector

The UAE Government has issued a Federal Decree-Law establishing the National Media Authority, a new federal entity tasked with regulating, developing and future-proofing the country’s media sector.

TAS News Service

info@thearabianstories.com

Thursday, December 18, 2025

DUBAI : Affiliated with the Cabinet, the National Media Authority will operate as a federal public authority with full legal personality and financial and administrative independence. Under the decree, it will replace the Emirates Media Council, the National Media Office, and the Emirates News Agency (WAM), bringing key media oversight and communication functions under a single unified structure.

The new Authority will be responsible for proposing the State’s strategic media directions and national messages, coordinating with media entities to unify policies, messaging and media discourse across platforms. It will also work to enhance the UAE’s reputation, monitor media narratives, and manage media crises in coordination with relevant authorities.

As part of its regulatory mandate, the National Media Authority will propose legislation governing media outlets and activities, including digital media, and oversee licensing processes across the country, including free zones. It will set content standards and monitor all published, printed and broadcast material to ensure alignment with national regulations and professional ethics.

The Authority will also oversee the registration and accreditation of media professionals and foreign correspondents operating in the UAE, including those based in free zones. A key pillar of its role includes the development of WAM, strengthening its position as the official source for publishing, distributing and translating accredited news, while regulating the transmission, broadcasting, redistribution and use of news from local, regional and international sources.

In addition, the National Media Authority will support media institutions by providing access to local and international news, articles, reports and images in line with best journalistic practices, reinforcing professional standards and contributing to the growth of a cohesive and credible national media ecosystem.

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