Abu dhabi: The UAE Government has enacted a Federal Decree-Law to establish and organise the National Media Authority, a federal public entity under the UAE Cabinet's jurisdiction. The Authority aims to unify national media efforts, align federal and local media policies, and streamline the UAE's media discourse both nationally and internationally.
According to Emirates News Agency, the newly formed National Media Authority will assume the roles, responsibilities, and legislative texts of the UAE Media Council, the National Media Office, and the Emirates News Agency (WAM). This includes an array of existing contracts, agreements, and memoranda of understanding. The Decree-Law specifies the Authority's competencies, such as proposing strategic media messages for the UAE and coordinating with media entities to align policies across all levels.
The Authority is tasked with regulating and advancing the UAE's media sector. It will propose and develop policies, legislation, and strategies to enhance the sector and the UAE's global media reputation. This includes proposing regulations and standards for organising and licensing media outlets, including digital media and those operating in free zones.
Once approved by the UAE Cabinet, the Authority will oversee the implementation of these measures and establish media content standards in collaboration with relevant authorities. It will monitor all media content produced or broadcast within the UAE, including free zones, and is responsible for developing and maintaining a positive national media narrative.
The Decree-Law also charges the Authority with preparing for potential media crises, developing solutions, and coordinating with authorities to manage these effectively. It will focus on building capabilities to detect and respond to crises arising from digital media threats, misleading content, or fake news.
Furthermore, the Authority is tasked with developing the Emirates News Agency (WAM) as the official news channel, supporting the publication, distribution, and translation of approved news. It is empowered to create a global network of correspondents and media offices and is responsible for archiving news, producing media content, and training national media talent.
The Authority's responsibilities extend to registering, licensing, and accrediting foreign media representatives in the UAE, overseeing official media delegations during international visits, and representing the UAE in media forums. The new legislation also outlines the structure and governance of the Authority, including the appointment of leadership positions and the formation of a board of trustees.
Finally, the Decree-Law authorises the Authority to establish or invest in limited liability companies, pending Cabinet approval. This comprehensive mandate underscores the UAE's commitment to a unified and strategic national media framework.