UAE to Implement Commercial Music Licensing Fees from December 2026

The UAE Ministry of Economy and Tourism has announced a new framework for managing music rights, introducing mandatory licensing fees for commercial entities that play music. Collections are set to commence in December 2026.

The new 'Collective Management in Music Guide' aims to standardise licensing fees, reduce copyright infringements, and strengthen the country's creative industries. It applies to a broad range of businesses, including restaurants, cafes, hotels, shopping malls, fitness centres, airlines, radio stations, television channels, and event organisers such as concerts.

Licensing and Collection

The fees will be collected by two Ministry-licensed organisations: the Emirates Music Rights Association and Music Nation. These bodies are responsible for managing the rights of composers, songwriters, singers, instrumentalists, record producers, and music publishers. Licences issued under this system will be valid for one year and are renewable, with fees adjusted based on the nature of the music's use and the size of the business.

Certain entities will be exempt from these fees, including educational and academic institutions, government bodies, national events, and personal, non-commercial celebrations. The Ministry reserves the right to add further exemptions in the future.

Supporting the Creative Economy

Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism, stated that the initiative aligns with the UAE Vision 2031 objectives to diversify the economy and enhance the competitiveness of its music and creative sectors. A significant component of this framework is the establishment of a “Cultural Support Fund in the Field of Music”. This fund will receive 10 per cent of the total fees collected.

Overseen by a joint committee from the Ministry of Economy and Tourism and the Ministry of Culture, the fund will provide financial, technical, and artistic assistance for composition, production, distribution, and live performances. Its objectives include nurturing emerging talent, including children, youth, and people of determination, and promoting Emirati music internationally through various support programmes and cultural exchanges.

Oversight and Compliance

The Ministry of Economy and Tourism will actively monitor the licensed collective management entities to ensure compliance with the UAE’s Copyright and Neighbouring Rights law. This includes conducting field inspections and reviewing financial and technical records. The Ministry will also mediate complaints from rights holders and other stakeholders, seeking amicable resolutions or taking regulatory action as required. Licensees are expected to comply immediately with any amendments to licence terms necessitated by regulatory requirements or public interest.