Licensed Advertiser

UAE Advertiser Permit for Content Creators

Since February 2026, every content creator publishing promotional content in the UAE must hold an Advertiser Permit. Here is everything you need to know.

What is the Advertiser Permit?

The Advertiser Permit is a federal authorization issued by the UAE Media Council (previously known as the National Media Council). It is required for any individual who publishes promotional content on social media or other digital platforms from within the UAE – whether the promotion is paid or unpaid.

This permit is separate from a trade or freelance license. Under the current regulations, influencers and content creators who earn income from promotional activities need both a commercial license (trade license or freelance permit) and an Advertiser Permit.

Who needs an Advertiser Permit?

The permit is required for anyone who:

  • Posts sponsored or promotional content on social media (Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Snapchat, etc.)
  • Promotes products, services, or brands in exchange for payment or gifts
  • Publishes advertising content on behalf of third parties
  • Runs a personal blog, podcast, or channel that includes paid partnerships

Exemptions

You do not need an Advertiser Permit if you:

  • Promote only your own business or products on your personal social media accounts
  • Are under 18 and publishing cultural, educational, or awareness content (guardian consent required)
  • Are a government entity or official media outlet already licensed under a separate framework

How to Apply

The application is fully online through the UAE Media Council portal. Here is the process:

1

Visit the UAE Media Council portal

Go to eservices.uaemc.gov.ae and navigate to Media Licensing, then search for "Advertiser Permit".

2

Log in with UAE Pass

Authenticate using your UAE Pass account. If your UAE Pass is not yet linked, you will be prompted to upload personal details, an Emirates ID copy, and your address.

3

Complete the application

Fill in the required fields and upload supporting documents such as your trade license or freelance permit.

4

Wait for approval

Applications are typically reviewed within 3 working days. The permit is issued electronically.

Official application link: eservices.uaemc.gov.ae

For detailed instructions, see the UAE Media Council service page.

Requirements

  • Must be at least 18 years old
  • Must hold a valid UAE Pass
  • Must have good conduct with no record of violating media content standards
  • A trade license or freelance permit is required for those who earn income from promotional activities
  • Copy of your Emirates ID

Cost

Period Fee
First 3 years Free
From year 4 onwards AED 1,000 / year

The Advertiser Permit itself is free for the first three years for UAE citizens and residents. Note that a separate trade license or freelance permit may involve additional costs depending on the issuing authority and free zone.

Visitors & Non-Residents

If you are visiting the UAE and plan to create promotional content during your stay, a separate Visitor Advertiser Permit is available through the UAE Media Council. This is designed for influencers and content creators who are not UAE residents but are producing promotional content within the country.

Licensed Advertiser

Upload Your Permit on CreatorMarket

Once you have received your Advertiser Permit, upload it on CreatorMarket to earn the Licensed Advertiser badge on your public profile. This signals to brands that you are fully compliant with UAE regulations and licensed to run paid promotions.

Go to Dashboard → Advertising Permit and upload your permit document (JPG, PNG, WebP, or PDF). Our team reviews submissions within 1-2 business days.

Upload Your Permit

Official Resources

This page is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Regulations may change – always refer to the official UAE Media Council website for the most current requirements. Last updated: April 2026.