Sheikh Mohammed issues new law to expand Dubai Media Council's mandate

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, issued Law No. (29) of 2024 pertaining to the Dubai Media Council.

The Law grants the Council expanded powers and responsibilities to implement strategies and plans for the advancement of Dubai's media sector.

The new Law will be effective upon its publication in the Official Gazette.

Sheikh Mohammed also issued Decree No. (66) of 2024, designating the Dubai Media Council as the regulatory authority for media activities across Dubai, including special development zones and free zones such as the Dubai International Financial Centre.

The Dubai Development Authority will retain its jurisdiction over media activities within its designated zones but will coordinate with the Council on regulatory matters.

Further, Sheikh Mohammed issued Decree No. (67) of 2024 to transfer the Dubai Film and TV Commission from the Dubai Development Authority to operate under the Dubai Media Council.

Sheikh Ahmed Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council, said the new legislation is part of a strategic realignment in the media sector's governance, guided by Sheikh Mohammed's vision for its advancement.

He said the expanded mandate will enable the Council to introduce transformative changes in Dubai's media landscape, aligned with the leadership's ambitious goals to consolidate the emirate's profile as a global hub for creativity, innovation, and talent.

By leveraging the new mandate, the Council will focus on fostering an environment that attracts top talent and leading media institutions from around the world.

Sheikh Ahmed stated, "Mohammed Bin Rashid's vision for Dubai's media sector inspires us to accelerate our efforts to enhance the industry and its ecosystem. 

The new legislation empowers the Council to launch innovative initiatives to strengthen Dubai's role as a leading global media hub. With clear strategies and performance metrics in place, we are committed to driving progress and staying ahead of global industry trends."

Law No. (29) of 2024 outlines the Dubai Media Council's objectives, including integrating media efforts across the emirate, adopting a unified strategic vision for the media sector, 

monitoring the implementation of media strategies, and enhancing Dubai's competitiveness as a global media hub.

The Law also seeks to bolster Dubai's status as a destination for young media talent, support the development of Emirati media professionals, and promote the film and video gaming industries.Expanded mandate

The Law broadens the Council's mandate as the main government authority responsible for regulating Dubai's media sector. 

Pursuant to the Law, the Council's responsibilities also include promoting research, innovation, and development; implementing strategies for the global promotion of the film and video gaming industries; fostering local talent; and attracting domestic and foreign investments.