In a significant restructuring of its media governance framework, the United Arab Emirates has enacted a new federal law establishing the National Media Authority. This landmark decision, announced on December 18, 2025, creates a comprehensive regulatory body that supersedes three previously separate entities: the UAE Media Council, the National Media Office, and the Emirates News Agency (WAM).
The newly formed authority will operate as a public federal entity directly affiliated with the UAE Cabinet, possessing full legal personality along with financial and administrative autonomy. This consolidation represents the most substantial media governance reform in recent years, centralizing regulatory functions under a single umbrella organization.
Key responsibilities of the National Media Authority include developing strategic media directions and messaging for the nation while ensuring alignment between media organizations and official government policies. The authority will spearhead efforts to enhance the UAE’s international reputation through coordinated media narratives and crisis management protocols.
The regulatory body will assume legislative powers to propose new regulations governing media licensing across all platforms, including digital media and operations within free zones. It will establish content standards in coordination with relevant government entities and monitor all published, broadcast, and digital content throughout the Emirates.
Additional functions include professional accreditation for media personnel and foreign correspondents, plus oversight of the Emirates News Agency’s expanded role as the official channel for distributing government-approved news. The authority will also facilitate news provision to media institutions in accordance with international journalistic standards and ethical practices.
This structural consolidation aims to create a more cohesive media ecosystem while maintaining the UAE’s commitment to professional media development and strategic communication objectives on both domestic and international fronts.