Dubai is ushering in a new era for its media sector after Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, issued Federal Law No. (29) of 2024. The legislation grants the Dubai Media Council significantly expanded authority to develop and execute five-year strategic plans for the film and gaming industries.
What Federal Law No. 29 of 2024 Changes
The new law strengthens the Dubai Media Council's mandate across several fronts. It empowers the Council to integrate media efforts across the emirate, promote research and innovation, attract domestic and foreign investment, and foster local talent. Critically, the legislation creates a regulatory framework specifically targeting the film and video gaming sectors — two industries the UAE regards as central to its broader creative economy.
Two supporting decrees accompanied the law. Decree No. (66) of 2024 designates the Dubai Media Council as the sole regulatory authority for media activities across Dubai, including in special development zones and free zones such as the Dubai International Financial Centre. Decree No. (67) of 2024 transfers the Dubai Film and TV Commission from the Dubai Development Authority to operate directly under the Dubai Media Council, raising its strategic profile within the emirate's media landscape.
Dubai Films and Games Commission Takes the Lead
A key outcome of the legislation is the establishment of the Dubai Films and Games Commission, which succeeds the Dubai Film and TV Commission. The new body will take a leading role in growing Dubai's film and gaming industries, overseeing the development of digital platforms for production and distribution, and promoting local content in international markets. It will also organise exhibitions, industry events, conferences, and training programmes to develop talent and attract global players.
The Council is chaired by Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and will coordinate its efforts with the aim of driving innovation and attracting international expertise to Dubai.
Streamlined Media Permits Under One Roof
The legislation also establishes the Dubai Media Permits Office, which will coordinate media activities and consolidate permit processes under a single, streamlined system. Council Chairperson Mona Al Marri said the new laws mark a decisive step in establishing Dubai as a leading international media city.
The overarching goal is to place Dubai at the forefront of global creative industries — using a combination of regulatory reform and targeted investment programmes to ensure the emirate not only keeps pace with emerging global trends but sets them.
