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UAE sets new rules for responsible digital content and media growth

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7 months ago

May 12, 2025

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At a time when digital platforms are shaping opinions and cultures at lightning speed, the UAE is drawing a clear line, one that embraces modern innovation while staying rooted in national identity and values.

This vision was at the heart of conversations at the Arab Media Forum in Kuwait, where the UAE was honoured as the Guest of Honour. Among the key voices was Mohammed Saeed Al Shehhi, Secretary-General of the UAE Media Council, who shared the country’s latest efforts to build a future-ready media environment.

“Our goal is to create a responsible, competitive media landscape that reflects who we are as a nation, while staying in step with global trends,” said Al Shehhi in a statement.

At the core of this effort is a comprehensive legislative roadmap that includes a new media law, executive regulations, and more policies on the way. But these are not just about control—they’re about empowerment. Designed to attract local and international investment, these measures also support content that is ethical, high-quality, and aligned with the UAE’s cultural values.

For the UAE, media is more than just news or entertainment—it’s a strategic sector with global potential.

Supporting Talent in a Fast-Changing World

Beyond laws and policies, the UAE is also investing in its people, especially its youth. With technology evolving rapidly, Al Shehhi stressed the importance of preparing the next generation of Emirati media professionals to meet new demands.

One major initiative is the Media Apprenticeship Programme, launched under the Nafis programme in partnership with the Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council. This hands-on training targets recent graduates, university students, and working professionals looking to upgrade their skills in a media world increasingly powered by artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and advanced digital tools.

“The future of our media industry lies in the hands of our young people,” said Al Shehhi. “We’re equipping them not just with tools, but with a mindset that balances creativity, responsibility, and innovation.”

Setting Standards for a Digital World

The UAE Media Council has also rolled out new content guidelines to ensure media, both traditional and digital, meet quality and ethical standards. These cover everything from protecting individual rights to ensuring age-appropriate content, acting as a moral compass in a digital landscape that often lacks clear boundaries.

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.

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Dubai-India travel: Security procedures triggered for Emirates flight following bomb threat email, flight lands safely

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21 hours ago

December 5, 2025

Michael Gomes

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Authorities at Hyderabad’s Rajiv Gandhi International Airport activated full emergency protocols on Friday after receiving a bomb threat email linked to Emirates flight EK526 travelling from Dubai (DXB) to Hyderabad (HYD).

According to GMR officials, the threat email landed in the airport’s customer support inbox around 7.30am on December 5. Despite the alert, the flight continued under strict monitoring and landed safely at 8.30am.

Once on the ground, the aircraft was immediately moved to an isolated bay. Passengers were safely deboarded, and security te

ams carried out standard bomb threat checks. Investigations are currently underway.

Emirates confirmed the incident in a statement to local media, saying authorities had alerted them to a “potential security threat” to EK526.
“All standard security procedures were implemented by the relevant local authorities with full co-operation from Emirates’ ground teams,” the airline said, adding that “the safety and well-being of passengers and crew remain the highest priority.”

Authorities say all threats are being investigated, and extra security measures remain in place at the airport.

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Driving through Abu Dhabi this week? Here are the road closures you need to know about

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21 hours ago

December 5, 2025

Michael Gomes

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Abu Dhabi motorists can expect some delays over the next few days, with the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) announcing a series of partial road closures across key routes in the capital. Drivers are being urged to plan, allow extra travel time, and follow diversions to avoid congestion.

Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Street

A major set of phased lane closures will take place near Sheikh Zayed Bridge from Tuesday, December 9 to Monday, December 22, 2025.

Three left lanes will be closed from 12am on December 9 until 10pm on December 15.
Two right lanes will then shut from 10pm on December 15 until 6am on December 22.

Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak Street

Another temporary closure is scheduled on Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak Street from 5pm on December 5 until 5am on December 8.

Authorities explained that these restrictions are part of ongoing road enhancement projects designed to improve traffic flow and safety across the city. Motorists are encouraged to use alternative routes wherever possible during the maintenance period.

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Sharjah Police give deadline to remove National Day stickers, or face fines

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21 hours ago

December 5, 2025

Michael Gomes

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If your car is still sporting National Day decals, it’s time to take them off. Sharjah Police have announced that all vehicle owners must remove their UAE National Day celebration stickers by Saturday, December 6, and those who miss the deadline will face violations.

The reminder follows a crackdown during the 54th Eid Al Etihad celebrations, where authorities impounded 106 vehicles and nine motorbikes for dangerous and irresponsible behaviour on the roads.

According to Sharjah Police, the violations included:

Creating loud noise and disturbing residents
Driving recklessly and endangering others
Operating vehicles without a valid licence

Police officials urged motorists to celebrate responsibly and avoid turning festivities into safety risks.

However, there has been a shift in decorating trends this year. Many residents opted for cleaner, simpler, more elegant designs to showcase their UAE pride ahead of the long weekend, and demand for custom decals surged.

Authorities are now urging residents to ensure all celebratory stickers and decorations are removed by the set deadline to keep roads safe and avoid penalties.