UAE establishes National Media Authority under federal law

Under the new legislation, the National Media Authority will replace the UAE Media Council, the National Media Office, and the Emirates News Agency (WAM) in all their functions, rights, and obligations, including those relating to existing contracts, agreements, and memoranda of understanding.

Strategic oversight and media regulation

The Decree-Law outlines the Authority’s core responsibilities, including proposing the UAE’s strategic media tone and messaging, coordinating with media entities nationwide, and aligning federal and local media policies. The Authority will also develop policies, legislation, and strategies to advance the national media sector and strengthen the UAE’s global reputation.

Licensing, content standards, and crisis response

The Authority will regulate and license all media outlets and activities, including digital media, publishing, and free-zone entities. It will establish media content standards, monitor published and broadcast content, and oversee the national media narrative. The legislation also mandates that the Authority develop rapid-response mechanisms to address media crises, misinformation, and fake news.

Developing WAM and international media presence

The Decree-Law assigns the Authority responsibility for developing WAM as the official national news channel, including establishing global correspondent networks, archiving news, producing multilingual content, and training national media talent. It will also license foreign media representatives and represent the UAE at international media forums.