UAE Media Council Enhances Visiting Advertiser Permit Process With Four New MoUs

The UAE Media Council has formalised agreements with four major national companies to simplify the process for content creators seeking advertising permits. These Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) empower these companies to apply for a Visiting Advertiser Permit on behalf of creators, aiming to streamline procedures and boost efficiency in the media sector.

Mohammed Saeed Al Shehhi, Secretary General of the UAE Media Council, highlighted the positive reception of the Advertiser Permit since its introduction in July. He stated, "Since its launch in July, the Advertiser Permit has received a positive response and strong engagement, helping regulate the advertising content industry. Nearly 5,000 permits have been issued to date. Today, we are taking a new step to regulate visiting advertisers. Each visiting advertiser must apply for the permit through one of the Council-accredited agencies listed on our website. The agency will then coordinate with the Council to complete the process according to approved requirements."

The MoUs were signed by Maitha Al Suwaidi, Executive Director of the Strategy and Media Policies Sector, with New Media Academy, Exposed, Agency971, and imfluence. This collaboration is designed to support content creators by making it easier for them to obtain necessary permits through accredited agencies.

Al Shehhi also noted that the UAE's advertising industry is expanding swiftly due to its appeal to both creators and businesses. He explained that this regulatory framework ensures all parties' rights through transparent procedures while allowing global content creators to operate within a professional structure that maintains quality standards.

The Visiting Advertiser Permit is initially valid for three months but can be extended up to six months with payment of extension fees. Applicants must register with a licensed agency accredited by the UAE Media Council and ensure their contracts are based in the UAE.

To qualify for a permit, applicants must be at least 18 years old and possess good character without any convictions related to moral turpitude or dishonesty unless their civil rights have been restored. Additionally, all advertising content must adhere to approved media standards set by the Council.

Ensuring Compliance and Quality

Applications for these permits must be submitted solely through Council-accredited advertising or talent management agencies. This requirement ensures compliance with established guidelines and supports maintaining high-quality advertising content across the nation.

This initiative reflects efforts to enhance regulatory processes within the UAE’s media landscape while fostering an environment conducive to creative growth and innovation among local and international content creators.

With inputs from WAM