Social media influencers and establishments engaged in advertising without a licence will be penalized from July 1

According to the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), social media influencers and establishments that advertise or provide advertising services without a license will face penalties beginning July 1. The penalty would be up to Dh10,000 and could result in the companies' closure.

According to the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), social media influencers and establishments that advertise or provide advertising services without a license will face penalties beginning July 1. 

The penalty would be up to Dh10,000 and could result in the companies' closure.

Individual license fees are Dh1,250, while company fees are Dh5,000. 

According to ADDED, foreigners from outside the country can obtain a licence if they have an Emirates ID card or unified number. 

The ruling also applies to government companies that provide advertising services via electronic platforms. 

The department also clarified that influencers, even those with National Media Council credentials, must get a licence.