UAE Establishes National Media Authority to Unify Media Strategy and Oversight

The UAE Government has launched a new federal body to oversee the country’s media landscape. Called the National Media Authority, it replaces several existing institutions and will take charge of licensing, regulation, and strategic media policies across the nation.

The Authority was established as a federal public entity under the UAE Cabinet. It absorbs the roles of the former UAE Media Council, the National Media Office, and the Emirates News Agency (WAM). All previous functions and responsibilities of these bodies now fall under the new organisation.

One of its key tasks is to unify the UAE’s media messaging and set strategic guidelines for national media tone. It will also develop policies, standards, and legislation for media outlets operating in the country. This includes licensing both local and foreign media representatives. The Authority will strengthen WAM’s role as the official channel for distributing approved news. Plans include expanding its global correspondent network and ensuring consistent media narratives. Additionally, it will train Emirati media professionals and build a skilled workforce for the sector. To handle crises, the Authority will create systems to counter misinformation and digital threats. It will also monitor all media content produced or shared within the UAE, enforcing national standards. A Board of Trustees, appointed by the UAE Cabinet, will oversee governance alongside senior executives.

The new Authority centralises media regulation under one federal body. It will shape policies, license outlets, and manage the national media narrative. Its formation marks a shift in how the UAE governs its media sector.