UAE Dialect Ban For Non-Emiratis: Official Explains New Media Policy

A top UAE official has explained the reasoning behind the new policy that allows only UAE citizens to speak in the Emirati dialect on media channels, stating that“the Emirati citizen is best able to understand the true value of the national dialect and dress, as they are a symbol of national identity and an embodiment of the country's cultural and historical heritage”.

The policy was discussed on Wednesday at the Federal National Council (FNC) session.

Abdulla bin Mohammed bin Butti Al Hamed, Chairman of the National Media Office, emphasised the importance of this regulation in a statement through X:“The policy was implemented in response to increasing instances of misrepresentation of the Emirati dialect and cultural symbols, particularly in advertising.”

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Al Hamed reiterated the significance of preserving the Emirati dialect, describing it as“a rich vessel of vocabulary and meanings that store within its letters the memory of a nation".

He added that“wearing the Emirati national dress is a declaration of pride, a message of pride in heritage, and a living embodiment of a nation that celebrates its authenticity while looking confidently towards the future".

The new regulation also stipulates that anyone wearing the Emirati national dress in advertisements must be an Emirati citizen, further ensuring that the true image of authentic Emirati customs and traditions is conveyed.“The decision does not aim to limit the use of dialect or dress, but rather seeks to frame their appearance within standards that preserve their cultural status,” Al Hamed explained.

During the FNC discussions, member Naema Al Sharhan pointed out the challenges posed by rapid cultural changes and the proliferation of media platforms.

She noted,“While the Emirati dialect and local cultural symbols have gained prominence in daily marketing and entertainment, there are increasing signs of distortion in their presentation.”

In response to the concerns raised by Al Sharhan, Al Hamed acknowledged past violations in conveying the UAE's identity, confirming that action has been taken against entities that have tarnished the nation's reputation, though he did not disclose the penalties imposed.“

A new policy was introduced about three months ago, stating that no one should speak about any project in the Emirati dialect unless they are Emirati and wearing the national attire, to ensure the correct identity is conveyed to the Emirati community,” he explained.

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