In a move that could have significant implications for the hospitality, retail and entertainment sectors, the UAE Ministry of Economy and Tourism has announced a new framework requiring businesses to obtain licences for the commercial use of music, with fee collection set to begin in December 2026.
The initiative, introduced through the Collective Management in Music Guide, establishes a formal copyright licensing system covering establishments such as hotels, restaurants, cafés, shopping malls, fitness centres, airlines, radio stations, television channels and live entertainment venues.
Under the framework, businesses that play music as part of their commercial operations will be required to obtain annual licences, with fees determined by factors including the nature of music usage and the size of the establishment.
Impact on Hospitality Sector
For the hospitality industry, the regulations will affect hotels, restaurants, bars, lounges, cafés, banquet venues and other establishments where music forms part of the guest experience.
Industry experts note that background music, live performances and curated playlists have become integral elements of hospitality operations, helping shape ambience, brand identity and customer engagement. The new licensing regime is expected to formalise the use of copyrighted music while creating an additional compliance requirement for operators.
Licences will be valid for one year and renewable thereafter.
Copyright Protection Framework
The fees will be administered by two Ministry-approved collective management organisations — the Emirates Music Rights Association and Music Nation. These entities will be responsible for collecting royalties and distributing payments to composers, songwriters, performers, music producers and publishers.
According to the Ministry, the framework is designed to strengthen copyright protection, standardise licensing practices and reduce instances of unauthorised music usage.
Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy and Tourism, said the initiative aligns with broader efforts to strengthen the country’s creative economy and support the objectives of UAE Vision 2031.
The Ministry described the guide as a key step towards establishing an integrated copyright governance system that supports both creators and commercial users of music.
Exemptions and Support Measures
The regulations include exemptions for educational institutions, government entities, national events and personal non-commercial celebrations. The Ministry also retains the authority to exempt additional categories in the future.
A notable feature of the framework is the creation of a Cultural Support Fund in the Field of Music, which will receive 10 percent of all licensing fees collected.
The fund will support music composition, production, distribution and live performances, with a particular focus on emerging talent, youth, people of determination and the international promotion of Emirati music.
Compliance and Enforcement
The Ministry said it will actively monitor compliance through audits, inspections and reviews of financial and technical records maintained by licensed collecting societies.
It will also oversee complaint resolution mechanisms for rights holders and stakeholders and retain the authority to amend licence conditions when required in the public interest.
What It Means for Hospitality Businesses
For hotels and restaurants operating in the UAE, the new framework introduces a structured approach to music licensing similar to systems already prevalent in many mature hospitality markets, including the United States, United Kingdom, Australia and parts of Europe.
While the additional cost may have operational implications for some businesses, the move is expected to bring greater clarity around copyright compliance and royalty payments. Hospitality operators will need to review their current music usage practices and licensing arrangements ahead of the December 2026 implementation date.
As the UAE continues to position itself as a global tourism, entertainment and cultural hub, the new framework reflects a growing emphasis on protecting intellectual property rights while supporting the long-term development of the country’s creative industries.
Source : Khaleej Times
