Dubai has emerged as a thriving hub for influencers and businesses within the digital industry, witnessing a surge in popularity.
According to a report by Global Media Insights, the UAE boasted 10.73 million social media users in 2023, representing 99% of the country’s population. A staggering three out of four residents actively follow social media influencers, turning to them for both entertainment and inspiration for their purchasing decisions.
However, it is important to note that working as a social media influencer in Dubai necessitates obtaining a license from the National Media Council (NMC). Therefore, it is imperative to familiarize yourself with the process of getting an influencer license in Dubai.
Obtaining a social media influencer license in Dubai, UAE proves to be a valuable investment both in terms of commercial viability and financial rewards. Research indicates that 85% of UAE millennials follow at least one social media influencer, highlighting the substantial demand for individuals who can captivate and engage their audience through informative and entertaining content.
The influencer marketing sector in the Middle East is projected to reach a value of $1.3 billion by the conclusion of 2023. Additionally, research indicates that influencers boasting 10,000 followers who publish one paid post daily could potentially earn a monthly income equivalent to that of a mid-level marketing professional. This trend signifies a significant opportunity for influencers and content creators based in Dubai
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What Is An NMC License?
Introduced in 2018, the National Media Council (NMC) license plays a crucial role in regulating the social media influencer industry. Operating under the Media Regulatory Office of the Ministry of Culture and Youth, the NMC license is mandatory for individuals receiving financial compensation through their work, including advertising, reviews, or product placements in their content.
However, the NMC license does not apply to personal website owners, bloggers, or individuals promoting their own brands on social media. It also exempts those who conduct unpaid product reviews independently and without remuneration from the brand.
Initially valid for one year, NMC licenses require annual renewal. There are three licensing options available:
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Category 1 (Individual): This license is for independent social media influencers who prefer to operate individually.
Category 2 (Partnership): Designed for small groups of influencers looking to establish a company, this license requires company registration and a trade license. It is a more cost-effective option compared to Category 1 licenses.
Category 3 (Agency): This option involves affiliating with a certified Dubai social media influencer agency endorsed by the National Media Council. By joining such agencies, influencers are covered under the agency’s license. However, this arrangement may limit control over the content promoted.
Engaging in social media influencing without an NMC license can result in a fine of AED 5,000 and potential suspension of social media accounts. Complying with the licensing requirements is essential to operate legally and avoid penalties in the UAE’s influencer industry.
What Are The Laws In The UAE For Influencers?
In 2018, the UAE government introduced a legislation to regulate the social media influencer industry, requiring individuals engaged in paid promotional work on social media to obtain a license from the National Media Council (NMC).
These regulations specifically apply to social media influencers who receive monetary compensation or equivalent-value gifts for their work. To acquire the NMC permit, one must apply for an E-Media License. However, individuals who occasionally receive products for review or create content on their website generally do not need to obtain a license.
In addition to obtaining a license, social media influencers must adhere to several rules, which include:
- Keeping a record of all promoted materials on social media.
- Complying with laws concerning photography, defamation, and privacy.
- Avoiding any statements that may be considered blasphemous.
- Refraining from using language or messaging that is anti-Islamic, promotes sinful activities, or could negatively influence minors.
- Not sharing messages that mock national leaders or disrupt public peace.
- Social media influencers are prohibited from promoting alcohol in any form.
Compliance with these regulations is essential to ensure a responsible and lawful approach to social media influencing in the UAE.
Step to Get the Social Media Influencer License in Dubai, UAE
The process of obtaining the influencer license in Dubai, UAE is relatively easier than most of the trade licenses available in the UAE.
However, if this is your first time dealing with any official procedure in the UAE, then it is highly suggested that you seek assistance from professionals to avoid any expensive setbacks.
Before applying for the influencer license in UAE, you need to apply for a trade license. In addition to this, you need to be a resident of the UAE.
Here are the steps you need to follow in order to obtain the influencer license in Dubai and the UAE:
- Choose your preferred jurisdiction
- Apply for the influencer license
- Submit the required documents to the Freezone
- Complete the payment Process for the license
What is the Cost of Influencer License in Dubai and the UAE?
Influencers who wish to earn through their online activities need to obtain an influencer license in the UAE. The cost of Influencer License in Dubai will depend on the place and jurisdiction where you will be applying for the license.
For example, Free Zones like twofour54, Shams and Creative Clusters Authority makes it easier for people to obtain the influencer license in UAE. And influencer agencies that are certified by the National Media Council (NMC) do not need to obtain the influencer license.
Social media influencer license in Dubai costs approximately start from AED 8,050 to AED 15,000 . The cheapest influencer license in UAE costs approximately AED 8,050, which is provided when you apply for the license in Sharjah.
Groups of influencers who work together need to set up a company in Dubai and the UAE with a business trade license before they can earn through their activities.
The e-media license for such companies also costs AED 15,000. Influencers who are earning without any of the required licenses will face a fine of AED 5,000.
What are the Requirements for Obtaining the Influencer License in Dubai, UAE?
There are two categories of requirements that you must fulfill before you can obtain the influencer license in Dubai ,UAE. The first requirements that you must meet will make you eligible to apply for the influencer license in the UAE. These are the criteria for the eligibility of the influencer license in the UAE:
- he Must be above the age of 25 years.
- It Must be a UAE or GCC resident.
- He have a good reputation (no criminal history, etc.).
- Must not be a member of the NMC.
The second requirements are the documents that you must provide to the NMC for regulatory purposes. These are the documents you need to provide in order to obtain the influencer license in the UAE:
- Completed application form.
- The deed or tenancy contract.
- Copy of the influencer’s passport.
- Copy of the influencer’s visa page.
- The Emirates ID.
- Copy of the trade license.
- Two colored passport-sized photographs with white background.
Do influencers need a license in Dubai?
Yes, social media influencers in Dubai must obtain a license from the National Media Council (NMC). It’s essential to learn how to acquire this influencer license, as it can bring significant commercial and financial benefits in Dubai, UAE.
How do I get an influencer license?
To secure an influencer license, you’ll need to submit these documents:
- Business license.
- Copy of your residency visa.
- Copy of your Emirates ID.
- Passport copy.
- Passport-sized photos (with a white background).
How much is a media license in Dubai?
The cost of a social media influencer license in Dubai can begin at AED 12,500, with potential variations depending on visa requirements. You’ll also need to acquire an annual AED 1,500 permit from NMC. Licenses are typically issued or renewed within 30 days. Unregistered influencers or those who violate regulations may be subject to fines and account suspension.
Get an Influencer License in the UAE with Company Setup Consultants
As we have mentioned before, it can be really confusing to navigate the official processes in the UAE for first-timers. However, thanks to the availability of Company Setup Consultants, anyone with eligibility can obtain the influencer license in the UAE.
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