The new requirement for both influencers and marketers to get licenses for advertising services, imposed by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), has content creators in the UAE hoping for a more organized relationship.
Introduction to the Licensing Requirement
UAE content creators are anticipating a more structured relationship between influencers and advertisers following the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development’s (ADDED) new mandate requiring both parties to obtain licenses for advertising services.
Penalties for non-compliance
Starting July 1, social media influencers and establishments operating without a license will face penalties of up to Dh10,000. Persistent violations may even result in the closure of the offending companies.
According to Ahmed Alhammadi, an Emirati food blogger with more than 200,000 Instagram followers, this law would encourage better conditions for influencers and advertisers to communicate. The interests of all parties involved will be safeguarded by licensing.
Alhammadi praised the clarity of the law and expressed gratitude to the authorities for its positive impact, predicting that it will be reflected in improved social media content.
Licenses are available for purchase on the ADDED website using the Tamm platform. A valid Emirates ID card or unified number is also required for non-UAE nationals seeking a license.
This licensing requirement is seen as a significant step toward professionalizing the influencer marketing industry in the UAE. It aims to bring greater transparency and accountability to the relationships between influencers and advertisers, ensuring that all parties adhere to established standards and regulations.
The move by ADDED highlights the growing recognition of social media influencers as key players in the advertising landscape. By formalizing the licensing process, ADDED is not only protecting the interests of advertisers but also supporting influencers in building sustainable and credible careers.
For many influencers, this regulation is a welcome change. It addresses the previously murky legal framework governing their interactions with advertisers, offering a clear set of guidelines to follow. This, in turn, is expected to enhance the quality and reliability of advertising content on social media platforms.
Moreover, the requirement for a license underscores the importance of influencers understanding and complying with advertising laws. It encourages them to adopt professional practices such as transparent disclosure of sponsored content and adherence to ethical advertising standards.
The introduction of this regulation also reflects the UAE's commitment to fostering a fair and competitive digital economy. By ensuring that all influencers and advertisers operate under the same legal framework, ADDED is leveling the playing field and promoting fair competition.
The availability of licenses to foreigners further emphasizes the inclusivity of the UAE's regulatory approach. By allowing international influencers to participate in the local market, the UAE is positioning itself as a global hub for influencer marketing.
The new licensing rules introduced by ADDED mark a significant development in the UAE's digital advertising landscape. They promise to bring greater clarity, transparency, and professionalism to the industry, benefiting both influencers and advertisers. As the regulation comes into effect, it is expected to enhance the credibility and quality of social media advertising, reinforcing the UAE's position as a leader in the digital economy.