UAE Influencer Licence: Who Needs It, Cost and How to Apply

"Influencer license UAE" usually refers to two things: the Advertiser Permit issued by the UAE Media Council, and the trade licence your activity sits under. This guide explains who needs each, exemptions and how to apply.

Quick answer: If you advertise products, services or events on social media from within the UAE — paid or not — you need an Advertiser Permit. Residents and citizens must first hold a trade licence for electronic media activity. Source: UAE Media Council.

Who needs the Advertiser Permit

According to the Media Council, the permit applies to individuals — citizens, residents and visitors — who produce advertising content on social media, with or without compensation. It is based on Media Council Decision No. 3 of 2025 and Federal Decree-Law No. 55 of 2023 on Media Regulation.

Exemptions

The Media Council lists exemptions including:

• Individuals advertising their own products or services, or those of a company they own, on personal accounts.
• Individuals under 18 engaged in educational, sports, cultural or awareness activities, within the age rules.

Always check the current list on the regulator's page; exemptions can change.

Permit requirements and duration

The National Media Authority's service page lists the fee as free for the first three years, then AED 1,000, with a stated service time of three working days. Applicants also need to complete the Council's training programme.

Which trade licence do influencers need?

You need a licence that covers an electronic media activity. Options include:

• A mainland licence from an emirate economic department.
• A free zone media licence, for example in media-focused zones such as Ajman Media City Free Zone or SHAMS.
• A freelance permit that includes a permitted media activity — see the UAE freelance visa and permit guide.

Compare structures on our media licence page.

How to apply

1. Obtain a trade licence covering electronic media.
2. Log in to the Media Council / National Media Authority e-services with UAE Pass.
3. Upload Emirates ID, passport, photo and commercial licence.
4. Complete the required training.
5. Receive approval and pay any fee due.

Common mistakes

• Assuming unpaid gifting is outside the rules.
• Holding a trade licence without the activity that covers media.
• Letting a permit lapse while running brand campaigns.

Next step

Choose the structure that fits your income, then compare media and freelance packages. Ask providers to confirm the activity covers electronic media.