UAE Unveils National Media Authority to Take Over WAM and Other Media Agencies

The United Arab Emirates has introduced a new Federal Law establishing the National Media Authority, a public federal body that will operate under the supervision of the UAE Cabinet. Announced on Thursday, the move represents a major step toward unifying and modernising the country’s media governance structure.

The National Media Authority has been granted full legal status, along with financial and administrative autonomy, enabling it to function independently while carrying out its nationwide responsibilities. With complete legal capacity, the authority will oversee media regulation and coordination across the UAE. As part of this restructuring, it will absorb and replace three existing entities: the former UAE Media Council, the National Media Office, and the Emirates News Agency (WAM). By consolidating these bodies into a single institution, the government aims to create a more streamlined, cohesive, and effective media regulatory framework.

One of the core mandates of the National Media Authority is to define and guide the UAE’s overarching media strategy. This includes developing unified national messaging and working closely with media organisations to ensure their content and editorial direction are consistent with the country’s media policies and broader national discourse. Through this coordinated approach, the authority seeks to strengthen alignment across the media landscape and ensure a clear, consistent representation of the UAE’s values and priorities.

Enhancing the UAE’s international image is another central responsibility of the new authority. It will monitor and evaluate how the country is portrayed across various media platforms worldwide, assess prevailing media narratives, and take proactive steps to reinforce the UAE’s global reputation. In situations involving misinformation, negative coverage, or media-related crises, the authority will coordinate with relevant government bodies to respond effectively and protect the nation’s image.

The National Media Authority will also play a key role in shaping the legal and regulatory environment governing the media sector. It will propose new legislation and regulatory frameworks to oversee and license media outlets and media-related activities throughout the UAE. This remit extends to traditional and digital media, including platforms operating within free zones, ensuring that regulations remain relevant in a rapidly evolving media and technology landscape. Coordination with other media-related entities will be essential to maintaining consistency and regulatory clarity.

In addition to legislation, the authority will be responsible for setting national standards for media content. Working in collaboration with relevant authorities, it will establish guidelines that uphold professional, ethical, and cultural values. The authority will also monitor and review all forms of media content distributed within the country, including print publications, online platforms, social media posts, and broadcast material. This oversight will apply equally to content produced or disseminated within free zones, ensuring uniform standards across the UAE.

Another important function of the National Media Authority involves the registration and accreditation of media professionals. This includes licensing journalists, media practitioners, and correspondents representing foreign media organisations operating in the UAE. By overseeing accreditation processes, the authority aims to support professionalism, transparency, and accountability within the media sector while facilitating international media engagement.

A significant component of the authority’s mandate is the development and enhancement of the Emirates News Agency, WAM. As the UAE’s official news agency, WAM will be further strengthened to serve as the primary channel for publishing, distributing, and translating official news approved by the state. The authority will regulate how news from various sources—local, regional, and international—is transmitted, broadcast, redistributed, and used within the country.

Beyond regulation, the National Media Authority will support media institutions by supplying reliable local and international news content. This includes providing articles, reports, photographs, and other journalistic materials that adhere to internationally recognised professional standards and ethical practices. Through this support, the authority aims to raise the overall quality of media output and encourage responsible journalism across the UAE.

Overall, the establishment of the National Media Authority marks a significant transformation in how media affairs are managed in the UAE. By centralising oversight, strengthening regulation, and enhancing strategic coordination, the new authority is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the nation’s media sector while reinforcing the UAE’s voice at home and abroad.