Towards a Unified Framework for Protecting Copyright and Related Rights in the Music Sector
The UAE Ministry of Economy and Tourism has issued Ministerial Resolution No. (136) of 2026, adopting the “Collective Management in Music Guide.” Starting December 2026, restaurants, cafés, hotels, shopping malls, fitness centers, airlines, and radio and TV stations will be required to obtain a license in exchange for playing music publicly. The resolution is based on Federal Decree-Law No. (38) of 2021 on Copyrights and Neighbouring Rights and its executive regulations.
The Difference Between Personal Listening and Public Performance
A personal subscription to a streaming platform does not grant a commercial establishment the right to play music for its customers, because the right of personal listening is legally distinct from the right of commercial public performance tied to an economic activity.
Covered Entities and Collection Mechanism
- Covered categories include: restaurants, cafés, hotels, shopping malls, fitness centers, airlines, radio and TV stations, and concerts and similar events.
- Collection is carried out by two licensed collective management organizations: the Emirates Music Rights Association and Music Nation, under the Ministry’s supervision, which retains the authority to conduct inspections and receive complaints.
- The license is valid for one year and renewable according to the Ministry’s conditions.
Exemptions
Educational and academic institutions, government entities, national occasions, and non-commercial personal celebrations are exempt from the fees. The Ministry may exempt additional categories by a subsequent decision.
Cultural Support Fund
10% of the fees collected is allocated to the “Cultural Support Fund for Music,” which supports music creators and the music industry, under the joint supervision of the Ministries of Economy and Culture.
Conclusion
This resolution is not a newly created fee, but rather the executive implementation of a right that already exists under the copyright law. Businesses concerned are advised to review their use of music and apply for a license before the implementation date in December 2026, to ensure full compliance and avoid potential legal liability.
