ARTICLE
17 July 2025

New Media Regulation In The UAE: Understanding UAE's Federal Decree-Law No. 55/2023 (Video)

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Dr. Hassan Elhais

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Dr. Hassan Elhais, a long-standing member of the prestigious Amal Alrashedi Lawyers & Legal Consultants, is a renowned legal consultant in the UAE, specializing in family law, criminal law, civil law, company incorporation, construction law, banking law, inheritance law, and arbitration. Dr. Elhais has gained wide recognition in the country, winning numerous awards and accolades. He was declared the Legal Consultant of the Year in 2026 by Leaders in Law. He was also elected as the co-chair of the ‘Relocation of Children Committee’ of the International Academy of Family Lawyers (IAFL), a worldwide association of practicing lawyers, widely regarded as the most experienced and skilled family law specialists in their respective countries. Dr. Hassan Elhais’s continued recognition in the 2025 Chambers and Partners rankings for Family/Matrimonial services to High-Net-Worth individuals in the UAE from 2022-2025.
The UAE has recently introduced a significant regulatory framework with the issuance of Federal Decree-Law No. 55/2023, focusing on the regulation of media activities in the country.
United Arab Emirates Media, Telecoms, IT, Entertainment
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The UAE has recently introduced a significant regulatory framework with the issuance of Federal Decree-Law No. 55/2023, focusing on the regulation of media activities in the country.

This comprehensive law, which abrogates Federal Law No. 15/1980 on Press and Publication, outlines a specific framework for the governance of media institutions, information media, and other entities involved in the broadcasting of information.

Defining Key Terms: Article 1 of the decree-law provides an extensive definition for terms such as:

Media: Involves the broadcast, publishing, printing, and distribution of spoken and digital information and news, excluding private correspondence.

Information Media: Includes readable, audio, visual, and electronic means, along with games, television and radio production, press, printing, and electronic publications.

Media Content: Refers to readable, audio, visual, or digital material that includes information, opinions, and various works published through media means, excluding private correspondence.

Foreign Media Content: Involves readable, audio, and visual media content produced outside the UAE and published within the UAE.

Media Institution: Refers to an entity licensed exclusively to practice media activities.

Conclusion:

Federal Decree-Law No. 55/2023 aims to promote a responsible and dynamic media environment in line with global standards.

Originally published 16 Sept 2024

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.

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