The UAE Government has issued a Federal Decree-Law establishing and organising the National Media Authority as a federal public entity affiliated with the UAE Cabinet. As a result, the move marks a restructuring of the country’s media governance framework.
Under the legislation, the Authority will consolidate national media directions and messages. Moreover, it will align media policies across federal and local entities through coordinated efforts, while unifying the UAE’s media discourse at national and international levels.
According to the Decree-Law, the National Media Authority will replace the UAE Media Council, the National Media Office and the Emirates News Agency in their functions, rights and obligations. Additionally, this transition covers relevant legislative texts, including provisions contained in existing contracts, agreements and memoranda of understanding.
Mandate, regulation and content standards
The Decree-Law defines the Authority’s competencies, including proposing the UAE’s strategic media tone and messaging. Furthermore, it will coordinate with media entities to align policies at both federal and local levels.
The Authority is tasked with organising and advancing the national media sector. At the same time, it will propose and develop policies, legislation and strategies aimed at strengthening the UAE’s global standing and reputation. It is also responsible for proposing regulations and standards to license and organise media outlets and activities, including digital media, publishing and entities operating in free zones. Following Cabinet approval, the Authority will supervise implementation.
In addition, the Authority will establish media content standards in coordination with relevant bodies. It will monitor all media content printed, broadcast or published within the UAE, including free zones, and will develop and oversee the national media narrative to reinforce a positive image.
Crisis response, WAM and governance structure
The Decree-Law assigns the Authority responsibility for developing plans and mechanisms to respond efficiently to potential media crises. Therefore, it will coordinate with relevant authorities to address negative or misleading content, digital media threats and fake news, while strengthening early detection capabilities.
The Authority is also tasked with developing the Emirates News Agency as the official channel for publishing, distributing and translating approved news. Moreover, it may establish a global network of correspondents and media offices, archive local and international news, and produce multilingual media content. It will also train and qualify national media talent.
Further responsibilities include licensing foreign media representatives, overseeing official media delegations abroad and representing the UAE in regional and international media forums, in line with Cabinet directives.
The legislation defines the powers of the Authority’s head, provides for the appointment of a deputy and authorises the establishment of a board of trustees by Cabinet resolution. Additionally, it provides for a secretary-general to ensure implementation of policies and strategies. Subject to Cabinet approval, the Authority may also establish or hold stakes in limited liability companies.
