Are you an influencer selling products or services on social media in the UAE? If the answer is yes, then you need a UAE Advertiser Permit. As you already know, this permit is now mandatory for anyone posting promotional content online. Whether you’re a seasoned influencer or a budding one, failing to comply can result in fines of up to AED 1 million.
What is a UAE Advertiser Permit?
Introduced by the UAE Media Council, the UAE Advertiser Permit is mandatory for anyone posting promotional content online on social media platforms, including Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and WhatsApp. This work permit is a game-changer, and it’s something every content creator, influencer, and business owner in the UAE needs to be aware of. Launched by the UAE Media Council in 2025, this permit ensures ads meet national standards aligned with UAE values. Curious to know the documents required and how to apply for a UAE Advertiser Permit, keep reading.
Who Needs a UAE Advertising Permit for Social Media?
This is the most critical question, and the answer is – Not everyone posting pictures or reels needs this advertiser permit, but if you’re promoting products or services – even for free – you need to have this permit. The UAE Advertiser Permit targets,
Individuals: UAE citizens, residents, or visitors creating ad content on any platform.
Influencers and Creators: Anyone partnering with brands, from sponsored reviews to affiliate links.
Business Owners: If you’re using social media to sell or promote, especially if hiring others to post.
Visitors: Short-term creators must register via approved agencies.
To keep it simple, you need an advertiser permit if your content pushes a product or service for monetary benefits or barter deals.
Who is Exempt from the Advertiser Permit?
The UAE Media Council has announced a few key exceptions, and those who fall under these categories are exempted from obtaining the advertiser permit.
Individuals promoting their own business or product: If you are the owner of a company and are using your personal or the company’s social media account to promote your own products or services, you are generally exempt.
Minors under 18: Individuals under the age of 18 who are creating educational, cultural, or awareness-related content that aligns with age classification standards are also exempt.
Non-commercial personal content: The permit is not required for personal, non-commercial content that does not involve promoting an external brand or service.
Requirements and How to Apply for Your Permit
The process for obtaining your permit depends on your residency status.
For UAE Citizens and UAE Residents:
Trade License: You must hold a valid freelance license for electronic media activities. This is a separate requirement from the Advertiser Permit itself and is usually issued by the relevant authority in your Emirate (e.g., Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism or Freezones Authorities).
Age: You must be at least 18 years old.
Cost and Validity: The cost for the license of Electronic media activities starts from AED 1070/- and the advertiser permit is currently free for the first three years for citizens and residents, and is valid for one year, renewable annually.
For UAE Citizens and UAE Residents:
Licensed Agency: Foreign content creators and visitors to the UAE who wish to advertise on social media must apply for a “Visiting Advertiser Permit” through a business setup in Dubai. We specialize in assisting advertisers & influencers to get their Advertiser Permit in no time.
Validity: This permit is valid for up to three months and can be renewed once for an additional similar period.
Why Obtain a UAE Advertiser Permit?
Having an UAE Advertiser Permit is not just about complying with the law; it’s about establishing yourself as a licensed and accredited professional on social media. Also, obtaining a permit is a must, because: –
Operating without the advertiser’s permit can lead to significant fines and even account suspension.
Displaying your permit number on your profile builds trust and brings you a valuable audience as well as potential brand collabs.
Many advertising agencies and big brands in Dubai will work only with creators who have the required permits, as it ensures compliance and a smooth legal partnership.
Cost of the UAE Advertiser Permit
As of now, the cost of the UAE advertiser permit fees is zero for UAE nationals and residents for the first three years. And for visitors, kindly check with us to get a quote on getting an advertiser permit in the UAE.
Get Started with Us for the UAE Advertiser Permit
Getting the advertiser permit shows professionalism and opens doors to work with top UAE brands – but the application process can be tricky. That’s where we come in. Our team at Dahhan Business Services helps you to get the UAE advertiser permit quickly – so you can advertise in the UAE without risking fines or facing legal troubles.
Contact us today to get your Advertiser Permit and start advertising confidently!
