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Co-Founder & CEO movingo
Editor
Author
Iakov Kukushkin
Copywriter, Journalist
Posted: Sept 16, 2025,
Updated: Nov 04, 2025
Updated: Nov 04, 2025
What's the Advertiser Permit?
- It's a document issued on top of an existing trade license (which is mandatory)
- It's required for all influencers and creators posting ads, whether paid or unpaid, on social media
- This applies to social media and even some messaging apps, like WhatsApp
- May require additional NOCs (No Objection Certificates) from specific authorities like RERA for real estate-related ads and many others
Who needs it and who's exempt?
Creators aged 18+ who promote products or services through social platforms.
Exempt:
- You must have good conduct and not have violated any media content in the past.
- UAE citizens and residents must obtain a trade license from the relevant authority to work in electronic media.
- If you're registered with an advertising or talent agency that's accredited by the Сouncil, you might be able to get a visitor permit.
Exempt:
- Individuals promoting their own business on their own accounts
- Minors (under 18) posting educational, cultural, sports, or awareness content (if age-appropriate)
How to apply and requirements for the new permit
Apply via UAE Media Council portal
You’ll need these docs:
You’ll need these docs:
- Emirates ID
- Passport
- Personal photo
- Address in the UAE
- Trade License
- MoA
- Valid tenancy contract
- Certificate of Good Conduct from MOI (Good standing certificate is not suitable)
Validity, fees, and free period
Permit is free for the first 3 years for residents and citizens
The duration for visitors is 3 months (renewable)
The duration for visitors is 3 months (renewable)
As a certificate holder, you must do the following:
- Follow media content standards.
- Make sure the advertiser isn't a fake company or person using a fake name, and that the agreement wasn't made through a bank account using a fake or fraudulent identity.
- Clearly display the permit number on your social media profiles.
- Only advertise through accounts that are registered with the Council and have a permit.
- Don't let anyone else use your registered account to advertise.
- Before you publish any ads, make sure to obtain permission from the relevant authorities, if required by law.
movingo helps influencers to have their documents in order
- Advice on the best license type for your influencer activities - either freelancer permit or company setup
- Set up a compliant company with all necessary documentation
- Apply for your Advertiser Permit correctly
- You focus on creating content, we handle the paperwork
