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Zawya
29-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
UAE Media Council announces launch of comprehensive system to regulate, empower, stimulate growth in media sector
The UAE Media Council launched a comprehensive system to regulate, empower, and stimulate growth in the media sector. This initiative builds upon the transformative journey initiated with the Council's establishment in February 2023 and the subsequent issuance of the Media Regulation Law and its Executive Regulation. The announcement was made during a press conference, held today at Creators HQ in Emirates Towers, Dubai, in the presence of Mohammed Saeed Al Shehhi, Secretary-General of the UAE Media Council, and Maitha Al Suwaidi, CEO of Strategy and Media Policies Sector at the UAE Media Council. Mohammed Saeed Al Shehhi emphasised the Council's ongoing commitment to launching a new media system that embodies the UAE leadership's vision for a modern and integrated media landscape. This system aims to drive a transformative shift in the development of the UAE's media sector, ensuring its continued regional and global leadership, as envisioned by the UAE's leadership. Al Shehhi stated, 'The new system transforms the way the media sector is regulated and developed, as it combines updated legislation, comprehensive media services, and policies covering various sectors to enhance efficiency and sustainable growth.' Al Shehhi highlighted the Media Regulation Law and its Executive Regulation as a milestone for a new era of competitiveness and leadership for the UAE media sector. As the first media law issued in over 40 years, it establishes a solid foundation for a future-proof media landscape, addressing advancements in digital media, artificial intelligence, gaming, on-demand broadcasting, and other evolving fields. He added, 'This system was developed over two years, through close collaboration with federal and local entities, media organisations, content creators, and international experts, reflecting a belief in partnership-based legislation grounded in practical application. This approach ensures responsiveness to change, empowers talent, fosters innovation, and attracts investment.' Furthermore, Al Shehhi noted that the new media system goes beyond establishing frameworks, focusing on content as the core of the industry. 'We ensured that it incorporates clear standards for responsible, balanced content that respects values and identity while promoting creativity and impact," he said, emphasising the importance of creative individuals as the foundation of effective media. Al Shehhi concluded, 'The goal is to empower the media sector to become a driving force for development and a vital economic engine contributing to the national GDP and enhancing the UAE's regional and global competitiveness. The new system aims to unlock potential, stimulate investment, and empower content creators through a flexible environment, streamlined procedures, incentivising exemptions, and strategic partnerships at both local and international levels." Maitha Al Suwaidi stated that the UAE Media Council is spearheading a transformation of the national media landscape, achieved through a comprehensive legislative roadmap designed to modernise the sector's regulatory framework and create a flexible, contemporary environment. She noted that this environment will both keep pace with global media trends and foster a more impactful and sustainable media industry. Al Suwaidi explained that this roadmap goes beyond traditional legal frameworks, as it includes not only the Media Regulation Law and its Executive Regulation but also a series of policies and regulatory decisions reflecting a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities presented by new media, with the aim of enhancing media practices to ensure they align with the UAE's core values. A key element of this system is a new resolution regulating social media advertising by individuals. This measure aims to build public trust, protect audiences, and improve the quality of online media content. It also offers concrete support to content creators through a three-year exemption from permit fees, she stated. Furthermore, Al Suwaidi stated that the Council is implementing a comprehensive age rating system for media content to safeguard children and adolescents from inappropriate material, particularly crucial given the rise in digital content consumption. She also noted a new policy for licensing digital news platforms is also being developed, to establish clear professional and regulatory guidelines to enhance credibility, ensure adherence to journalistic standards, and promote responsible practices within a balanced legal framework. Regarding regulations, Al Suwaidi highlighted the adoption of the Cabinet's resolution on media service fees and the resolution on violations and administrative penalties, representing a significant step towards a unified, flexible, and transparent media services system. This user-friendly system aligns with the UAE government's vision for proactive and integrated digital services, streamlining processes for media organisations and content creators within a growth-oriented regulatory environment. She emphasised that the local content empowerment policy is central to this system, prioritising Emirati talent and creative projects within the national media strategy, with fee exemptions for several media services to support local producers, writers, and creatives, and encourage content that reflects national identity and elevates the quality of the media message. In conclusion, Al Suwaidi stated that this new legislative system represents a pivotal moment in the development of a modern Emirati media landscape founded on transparency, professionalism, and quality. It provides media organisations and content creators with a robust regulatory structure that enhances their production capabilities and unlocks opportunities for growth and global competitiveness.


Emirates 24/7
26-05-2025
- Business
- Emirates 24/7
Sultan Haitham bin Tariq receives Hamdan bin Mohammed in Muscat
His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tariq Al Said, Sultan of Oman, today (Monday) received H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Defence of the UAE, at Al-Baraka Palace in Muscat. H.H. Sheikh Hamdan is currently on an official visit to Oman leading a high-level delegation. His Majesty Sultan Haitham welcomed H.H. Sheikh Hamdan and his accompanying delegation, expressing his deep appreciation for the strong fraternal bonds that unite the two nations and their peoples. During the meeting Sheikh Hamdan conveyed the greetings of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE; and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tariq, along with their best wishes for the Oman's sustained growth and progress. The meeting underscored the growing momentum in bilateral relations, which are rooted in deep historical and fraternal ties. Discussions also focused on further strengthening cooperation across key sectors, particularly in the economic, commercial, tourism, cultural, and knowledge domains to support comprehensive development in both countries. Sheikh Hamdan said the visit had been very fulfilling on various counts and emphasised that it serves to highlight the depth and strength of Emirati-Omani relations. He also emphasised the shared commitment to deeper coordination and the mutual exchange of successful development experiences, noting their role in advancing a common vision for the future, reinforcing strategic priorities, and expanding Gulf cooperation to spearhead sustainable development. H.H. also expressed his sincere appreciation for the warm welcome and gracious hospitality accorded to him and his accompanying delegation, wishing the Sultanate, its leadership, and its people continued progress, prosperity, and honour. The meeting was attended by H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai; H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports, and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group; and H.H. Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority. Also present at the meeting were Mohammad bin Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs; Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, Minister of Culture; Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade; Omar bin Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Application; Maryam bint Ahmed Al Hammadi, Minister of State; Sultan bin Saeed Al Mansoori, Chairman of Dubai Chambers; Abdulla Al Basti, Secretary General of The Executive Council of Dubai; Lieutenant General Talal Belhoul Al Falasi, President of Dubai's State Security Department;Helal Saeed Al Marri, Director General of Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism; Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Chairman of the Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation, Chairman and CEO of DP World, and Chairman of the Dubai International Chamber of Commerce. Earlier in the day, Sheikh Hamdan arrived in the Omani capital, Muscat, where he was welcomed at the Royal Airport by His Highness Sayyid Theyazin bin Haitham Tariq Al Said, Oman's Minister of Culture, Sports, and Youth. Follow Emirates 24|7 on Google News.

Zawya
07-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
President of Malawi receives Abdullah bin Zayed
Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera, President of Malawi, received H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, in the presence of Nancy Tembo, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Malawi, at the beginning of Sheikh Abdullah's working visit to the capital, Lilongwe. During the meeting, H.H. Sheikh Abdullah conveyed the greetings of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, and His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court, to the Malawian President, along with their wishes for development and prosperity for the Republic of Malawi and its people. For his part, President Chakwera conveyed his greetings to His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid and His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed, and his wishes for further progress and prosperity for the UAE. H.H. Sheikh Abdullah and President Chakwera discussed opportunities to enhance bilateral cooperation across various fields, particularly in the economic, commercial, investment and development sectors, in addition to other areas of mutual interest. His Highness affirmed that the UAE attaches great importance to strengthening bridges of cooperation with Malawi and establishing effective development partnerships that support both countries' aspirations for sustainable growth and prosperity. He also highlighted the UAE's commitment to deepening its partnerships, especially economic ones, with all friendly African countries. H.H. Sheikh Abdullah expressed his pride in visiting Malawi and meeting President Chakwera, and extended his appreciation for the warm welcome and generous hospitality. Following the meeting, Sheikh Abdullah and the Malawian President witnessed the signing of five Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) between the two countries. The first MoU, between the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Malawi, focuses on diplomatic training and was signed by Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, Minister of State, and the Malawian Minister of Foreign Affairs. The second MoU, in the field of investment between the two countries, was signed by Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan and Vitumbiko Mumba, Minister of Trade and Industry in Malawi. The third MoU, concerning investment cooperation in the minerals sector, was signed between the governments of the UAE and Malawi by Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, Minister of State, and Kenneth Zikhale Ng'oma, Minister of Mining in Malawi. Furthermore, the fourth MoU, focusing on cooperation in the digital learning initiative, was signed between the Digital School, an initiative of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, and the Government of Malawi by Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan and Nancy Tembo. The fifth MoU, signed by Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan and Vitumbiko Mumba, was between the Federation of UAE Chambers of Commerce and Industry and Malawi's Ministry of Trade and Industry, and pertains to the establishment of the joint UAE-Malawian Business Council. The meeting was attended by Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, Minister of State, Saeed Mubarak Al Hajeri, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for Economic and Trade Affairs, and Khalifa Abdulrahman Al Marzouqi, UAE's Non-Resident Ambassador to Malawi. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Arab Emirates, Ministry of Foreign Affairs.