The UAE Media Council prohibits AI use depicting national figures without approval, enforcing fines and penalties/Representative Image
The UAE Media Council has reiterated its strict stance on the misuse of artificial intelligence in media content, especially in depictions involving national symbols or public figures. Amid growing global concerns around AI-generated misinformation, the Council is bolstering its regulatory framework to uphold ethical standards, preserve national identity, and ensure responsible digital communication.
UAE bans unauthorised AI depictions of national figures
The UAE Media Council has clearly stated that using artificial intelligence (AI) or similar modern technologies to generate content involving national symbols or public figures without prior official approval is a direct violation of media content laws.This reminder comes in the wake of a recent social media incident where a user posted an AI-generated image featuring herself alongside the UAE’s founding father, Sheikh Zayed Al Nahyan. The post drew strong criticism online, with many users calling it “distasteful” and “unnecessary.”According to the Media Council, such acts not only misrepresent public figures but also disrespect the nation’s identity and values. Violations of this nature fall under the UAE’s Media Violations Regulation and may result in fines and administrative penalties.
UAE media council cautions against AI misuse in content creation
In a formal advisory, the UAE Media Council warned all social media users, media entities, and content creators to adhere strictly to approved laws and standards when using digital tools and AI technologies.The Council outlined several key AI-related media offences, including:
- Spreading misinformation
- Promoting hate speech
- Defamation and attacks on personal dignity
- Undermining reputations
- Violating societal values and principles
Such actions are classified as media offences and are punishable under the Media Violations Regulation.The Council also emphasised the importance of professional and ethical responsibility, particularly as the media landscape becomes increasingly shaped by generative technologies. This includes a clear directive that no AI-generated content involving national symbols can be published or circulated without prior official consent.
UAE expands media regulation tools with AI driven oversight
In May 2025, the UAE Media Council signed a strategic agreement with Presight, a global AI-powered big data firm, to develop a new regulatory platform. This advanced system is designed to analyse and validate media content in real time, ensuring it complies with national values and legal standards before it reaches public audiences.The upcoming platform will:
- Aggregate data from media agencies and licensing bodies
- Enable real-time analysis and filtering of digital content
- Provide AI-enabled decision-making tools for media oversight
- Support collaboration across regulatory entities
This initiative reflects the UAE’s commitment to combining technological innovation with governance, allowing the media sector to evolve responsibly while safeguarding public discourse.
UAE policies and initiatives to strengthen local media sector
During its third board meeting of 2025, chaired by Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Butti Al Hamed, the UAE Media Council reviewed a broad set of policy initiatives designed to regulate digital media and support local content creators.Key highlights from the meeting include:
- Plans to align media regulations with global digital transformation trends
- Strategies to support local content production and bolster the national media economy
- Ongoing implementation of the Mu‘lin permit system, with over 1,800 content creators already registered
- Introduction of a regulatory framework for licensing digital news and advertising platforms, particularly on social media
Al Hamed emphasised that these steps are part of a broader strategy to establish the UAE as a globally competitive media hub, driven by innovation and ethical standards.
UAE’s ethical AI charter and legal framework
The regulatory push aligns with broader legal measures in the UAE. Under Article 1(17) of the Federal Decree Concerning Media Regulation, all forms of media are required to:
- Respect state symbols
- Protect the nation’s cultural heritage
- Preserve national identity
Additionally, the UAE Charter for Responsible and Ethical Use of AI, released in June 2024, further outlines how AI should be used responsibly in line with national interests and social values. Go to Source
