Picture for illustrative purposes only. ARCHIVE

Business center executives in Dubai have raised alarm over social media influencers using their premises to film content without permission. A representative from one of the business centers told Expat Media that the practice has prompted stricter security measures to protect clients’ privacy. “We have noticed that they have been using our reception area and common areas to film content without permission. Our clients who have offices here are losing their privacy,” the representative said. One business center confirmed that beginning on Monday (August 18), biometric access will be strictly enforced, allowing only registered clients to enter, and those wishing to film in common areas must now submit a request form. “Approval will only be granted if the request is justified and does not compromise privacy or security,” the representative added. The issue came to light after a Filipino influencer was spotted filming in the reception area. “He and his group were very loud throughout their video production, and it turns out they did not even have an office here,” an office manager who requested anonymity told Expat Media. He said that the influencer's action did not only inconvenience their clients but was also considered trespassing. In the UAE, filming individuals without consent is illegal under the Federal Decree Law on cybercrimes, carrying penalties of fines and imprisonment. The law applies to both public and private establishments. Commercial filming in public spaces also requires a permit from the Media Regulatory Office. Other major business hubs such as Emaar properties and Dubai Design District also require official permits before any video or photo content can be created on their premises. Meanwhile, the UAE Media Council is tightening regulations on digital advertising. In late July, it launched two new mandatory permits: the Advertiser Permit and the Visitor Advertiser Permit, for influencers and digital advertisers publishing paid or unpaid promotional content. “The Advertiser Permit is a regulatory step designed to empower content creators and improve the quality of advertisements,” said Maitha Majed Al Suwaidi, CEO of Strategy and Media Policy at the UAE Media Council. The new permits, free of charge for the first three years, will be mandatory within three months and are expected to be rolled out before the end of the year. Exemptions include creators promoting their own business, or those under 18 producing cultural or educational content within UAE standards. ICA/Expat Media
For all the latest news from the UAE and the world, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and subscribe to our YouTube page