MCM 115: Media in the UAE

Question 1

UAEMC

Answer 1

1. Regulates traditional & digital media at federal & local levels.
2. Ensures all media content aligns with UAE’s cultural & national values to preserve UAE’s national identity.
3. Oversees licensing for media outlets & influencers.
4. Registers & accredits foreign media professionals.
5. Reviews & approves media content printed, published & broadcasted in UAE.

Question 2

Who needs a license to operate media activities?

Answer 2

1. Media institutions
2. Social media influencers (promoting brands)
3. Film production & advertising agencies
4. Media Free Zones (DMC, Twofour54)

Question 3

Media Content Regulations (Article 17)

Answer 3

Content that respects Islamic values, UAE’s governance and national identity, cultural & social values information are allowed.

Restricted content:
1. Defamation & false news
2. Hate speech or religious offenses
3. Promotion of crim/violence
4. Privacy violations

Question 4

What happens if media laws are violated?

Answer 4

Penalties & Fines (Article 23):

1. Warnings - Minor violations
2. Fines - 1K to 1M
3. Suspension/Closure - Up to 6 months suspension
4. License Cancellation - Permanent loss of license

Question 5

Censorship

Answer 5

Refers to control and regulation of media content to align with legal, cultural, religious, and national security considerations.

It is applied to print media, digital & social media, TV & radio, film & entertainment.

Question 6

Why does UAE enforce strict media regulations?

Answer 6

To protect social stability, religious values and national identity.

Question 7

What does UAE block/censor?

Answer 7

1. Political dissent/criticism
2. Adult Content
3. Gambling & Illicit Activities
4. Content that promotes violence, illegal drugs & extremism

*Politically sensitive contents are occasionally blocked on Wikipedia pages & news outlets.

Question 8

Censorship in Films

Answer 8

1. UAEMC screens all films before public release
2. Movies must align with Islamic values & cultural sensitivities
3. Films may be edited or banned entirely

Question 9

Censorship in Streaming Services

Answer 9

1. Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney+ must also comply with UAE censorship laws
2. Streaming services sometimes modify shows to align with UAE laws

Question 10

Social Media Restrictions Under UAE Cybercrime Law

Answer 10

1. Defaming Islam or other recognized religions are prohibited.
   Penalty: Up to 7 years imprisonment + fines of AED 250K to AED 1M
2. No content related to human trafficking, pornography, prostitution & acts against public morality
   Penalty: 1 to 5 years imprisonment + fines of AED 250K to AED 1M
3. No photographs, videos or comments on the social media platforms which invade
   someone’s privacy and personal life
   Penalty: At least 6 months and penalties from AED150K to AED 500K
4. No posts against culture & heritage of UAE, rumors and false news
5. No content against the government or government departments, the ruling regime, symbols, political system of UAE & any other countries.
6. No posts disclosing confidential matters related to
   government or criminal investigations.

Question 11

Defamation

Answer 11

Refers to false statements that harm an individual’s or organization’s reputation.

*UAE law criminalizes defamation in traditional, social and digital media.

Question 12

Types of Defamation

Answer 12

1. Libel - written/published
2. Slander - spoken false statements

Question 13

Cyber Defamation (Article 43 of UAE Cybercrime Law)

Answer 13

Any insulting, offensive or false statements made online can lead to legal action.

*Interacting with a defamatory content can be considered an offense.