UAE Launches National Media Authority to Oversee All Media Outlets
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A new federal body will license, monitor, and guide the UAE’s media sector, shaping national and international narratives.
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The UAE has established a new National Media Authority to direct and unify the country’s media landscape, the Government Media Office announced on Thursday.
The authority will replace the UAE Media Council, the National Media Office, and Emirates News Agency (Wam) in their functions, taking charge of licensing and overseeing all media outlets across the country—including digital platforms, publishing houses, and entities in free zones.
One Body, Unified Media Direction
The National Media Authority aims to consolidate media policy across federal and local entities and unify the UAE’s media messaging nationally and internationally. Its goal is simple: enhance the country’s reputation and guide the sector’s growth.
It will closely monitor all content printed, broadcast, posted, or aired within the UAE and in free zones, tackling misleading content, fake news, and other potential media risks.
Emirates News Agency Gets a Boost
The authority will also develop Emirates News Agency as the official channel for approved news, distribution, and translation. Established in 1976, the agency has been a cornerstone of UAE media and will continue to serve as a key platform under the new authority.
Global Reach and Licensing Power
The new authority will be able to:
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Establish a network of global correspondents and media offices
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Archive local and international news and press articles
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Produce news services and media content
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Register, license, and accredit foreign media representatives in the UAE
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Oversee official media delegations abroad
Governance and Structure
The authority will be governed by a board of trustees appointed by the UAE Cabinet and a secretary general. It can also own or invest in companies, subject to Cabinet approval, allowing for strategic partnerships and expansion.
With this move, the UAE is streamlining media oversight while positioning itself as a hub for professional, globally recognized news and media operations.