News

UAE gives social media creators more time to get advertiser permits

Published

10 months ago

October 23, 2025

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Good news for social media creators in the UAE. The deadline to get your Advertiser Permit has now been extended to January 31, 2026. This gives everyone more breathing room to comply with the rules introduced earlier this year on July 30, which came with a three-month grace period.

If you post promotional content online, whether it’s paid or unpaid, this permit is now mandatory. It applies to influencers, content creators, and anyone promoting products or services on social platforms. The goal? Transparency and accountability in digital promotions across the UAE.

The permit is free for the first three years for both UAE residents and citizens, and after that, renewals will be required.

Not everyone needs to apply. If you’re promoting your own products or services, or those of a company you own, you’re exempt. Minors under 18 involved in educational, cultural, sports, or awareness activities are also exempt, as long as they meet the age guidelines.

The Media Council says the extended deadline isn’t a free pass — it’s meant to give creators extra time to understand and comply without penalties. The application process is straightforward and can be completed via the UAE Media Council website, where all guidelines and instructions are provided.

With social media becoming such a key part of marketing, the UAE’s Advertiser Permit system is designed to create a professional and transparent online environment. Creators are encouraged to apply sooner rather than later to avoid last-minute rushes and ensure their content stays compliant.

Whether you’re a budding influencer or a seasoned content creator, now’s the time to make sure you’re covered, your posts, and your rules but officially approved.

Michael Gomes

With over 35 years of experience in journalism, copywriting, and PR, Michael Gomes is a seasoned media professional deeply rooted in the UAE’s print and digital landscape.

Announcements

Small businesses in the UAE now have tax relief until 2029

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5 hours ago

August 7, 2026

Michael Gomes

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Small businesses in the UAE with annual revenues of up to Dh3 million will continue to be eligible for Small Business Relief under the corporate tax regime until the end of 2029.

The Ministry of Finance said on Friday that Ministerial Decision No. 131 extends the period during which eligible businesses can benefit from Small Business Relief to cover tax periods ending on or before December 31, 2029.

The relief was introduced to help reduce the corporate tax compliance burden for smaller businesses and start-ups that meet the eligibility requirements.

Dh3 million threshold remains unchanged

The existing annual revenue threshold of Dh3 million, set under Ministerial Decision No. 73 of 2023, will continue to apply.

The relief applies to tax periods beginning on or after June 1, 2023 and, following the latest amendment, will remain available for subsequent tax periods ending on or before December 31, 2029.

Eligible taxable persons with annual revenue of up to Dh3 million can claim Small Business Relief, subject to meeting the conditions and requirements outlined in the corporate tax legislation.

The relief enables qualifying businesses to benefit from simplified corporate tax compliance requirements.

More time for small businesses

The extension provides eligible small businesses and start-ups with additional tax periods to benefit from the relief while continuing to meet the Dh3 million revenue threshold.

The Ministry said the decision is part of its efforts to support smaller companies and entrepreneurs, strengthen the business environment, and encourage sustainable growth and expansion.

News

UAE public holiday announced: 3-day weekend coming up on August 28

Published

6 hours ago

August 7, 2026

Michael Gomes

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Planning your next long weekend? The UAE has confirmed Friday, August 28, as a public holiday for employees in both the public and private sectors.

The holiday commemorates Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) birthday, an occasion included among the UAE’s official public holidays. As the date follows the Islamic calendar, the timing changes from year to year.

A three-day break for many residents

With the holiday falling on a Friday, employees who follow a Monday-to-Friday working week can enjoy three days off:

Friday, August 28: Public holiday
Saturday, August 29: Weekend
Sunday, August 30: Weekend

That means residents can make the most of the break with a short trip, a staycation or a relaxed weekend at home.

Another UAE holiday is coming

The next major public holiday on the UAE calendar will be Eid Al Etihad, with celebrations and the official holiday scheduled for December 2 and 3.

News

What the UAE’s new vape excise price means for consumers and retailers

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12 hours ago

August 7, 2026

Michael Gomes

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The UAE Ministry of Finance has introduced a new rule that sets a minimum excise price for liquids used in electronic smoking devices.

Beginning September 1, vaping liquids will be subject to a minimum excise price of AED 1 per millilitre.

The ministry confirmed that the existing minimum excise prices for cigarettes, water pipe tobacco (shisha), and other tobacco products will remain unchanged.

According to the ministry, the decision aims to improve tax compliance, respond to developments in the tobacco and vaping industry, and create a more consistent pricing framework across tobacco and electronic smoking products.

The UAE will also continue applying its 100% excise tax on all tobacco products covered under the country’s excise tax regulations.