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New law to regulate media, online content in UAE
A new federal law will soon be introduced in the UAE this year to regulate the media, online content and publications, a minister told the Federal National Council (FNC) members.
Minister of Culture and Youth Noura bint Mohammed Al Kaabi said that her ministry is currently making amendments to Federal Law No.15 of 1980 regarding media and publications.
“In preparing the new draft law, we will consider that it keeps pace with technological progress and modern media alongside traditional media. This is through direct communication with the authorities concerned and people with expertise in the media field so that the law comes out in the best way possible and in proportion to the current time,” said Al Kaabi.
Al Kaabi said there are three aspects to look into for the stratergic monitoring department at the Media Regulatory Office.
Those are print, visual and electronic media content, which are issued within the country and need to be followed up and monitored.
The task is also to monitor and follow up on what content is being circulated by the media in the country, make a periodical report and then submit it to the authorities.
“The strategic monitoring department periodically submits reports on what is published by various communication channels, including online content, evaluates its negative and positive effects.”
She added, “Those [contents] found in violation of the rules are submitted to the relevant authorities to take appropriate action.”
The minister also pointed out that there is a close cooperation between Media Regulatory Office and the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA), when dealing with content circulated online and broadcast during times of crisis and emergency.
The UAE-Oman railway project, officially known as Hafeet Rail, has reached 40 % completion, marking a major milestone in one of the region’s most ambitious transport initiatives.
Once operational, the cross-border rail line will connect Abu Dhabi with Sohar in just 1 hour and 40 minutes, while journeys from Al Ain to Sohar will take only 47 minutes.
First modern cross-border train in the region
Announced in 2023, the project is a joint venture between Oman Rail, Etihad Rail, and Mubadala.
Spanning 303km, the railway will be the first modern cross-border train in the Arab world, carrying both passengers and cargo between the UAE and Oman.
Route and speed
The line will run from the UAE’s existing rail network in Al Wathba to Sohar’s port, passing through varied terrain including deserts, valleys, and mountains alongside Jebel Hafeet.
- Train speed: up to 200 km/h
- Route length (main section): approx. 238km
- Travel time: significantly reduced between key cities
Major engineering works
The project includes:
- 2,500m of tunnels through mountainous terrain
- 21 overbridges and 39 underpasses
- Viaducts and bridges to ensure smooth, uninterrupted rail flow
These features will help maintain efficient travel across challenging landscapes.
Freight services between nations
Beyond passenger travel, Hafeet Rail is expected to create an integrated logistics network, strengthening trade and economic ties between the UAE and Oman. Freight locomotives will be used to power cargo services across the network, helping to strengthen regional logistics, trade flows, and supply chain efficiency between the two Gulf countries.
The project is valued at around $3 billion and is expected to play a major role in enhancing connectivity and economic integration across the region.
While construction is progressing across multiple locations, no official completion date has yet been announced.
His Highness Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has announced the launch of the Dubai Metro Gold Line, a major new infrastructure project set to expand the emirate’s transport network.
The 24-kilometre line, with an estimated cost of Dh 34 billion, will pass through 15 key strategic areas, serving around 1.5 million residents and connecting to 55 major real estate developments currently under construction.
Key route and connectivity
The new line will run from Al Ghubaiba in the north to Jumeirah Golf Estates, linking historic and emerging parts of the city.
- Total stations: 18
- Fully underground line
- Intersections with existing Red and Green Metro Lines
- Integration with Etihad Rail passenger stations in Meydan and Jumeirah Golf Estates
Boost to metro network
The Gold Line will increase the Dubai Metro’s overall length by 25%, significantly improving connectivity across the city.
The project is scheduled for completion on September 9, 2032.
Sheikh Mohammed said the project is part of Dubai’s ongoing ambition to become the world’s best city to live in, with continued investment in infrastructure and mobility.
The new line is expected to play a key role in reducing congestion, improving travel times, and supporting urban growth across Dubai.
Inside the UAE-Oman Hafeet Rail project now 40% complete
New Dubai Metro Gold Line to expand network by 25%
