UAE businesses like restaurants and hotels must pay annual royalties for copyrighted music starting December 2026. Managed by Music Nation and EMRA, fees vary by size and usage, impacting operational costs.
Our retelling · details in the original publication
Starting December 1, 2026, businesses across the UAE will be required to pay an annual royalty fee to play copyrighted music on their premises. This new regulation affects a wide array of commercial establishments, including restaurants, cafes, hotels, shopping malls, and fitness centers. The scope of the law also covers airlines, TV channels, and radio stations that utilize music for commercial purposes.
The Ministry of Economy has designated two authorized groups, Music Nation and the Emirates Music Rights Association, to manage the collection and administration of these fees. The permits issued under this scheme will be valid for one year, necessitating an annual renewal process. While the exact cost structure remains undisclosed, the fees will be scaled according to the size of the business and the specific type of music used.
Business owners should note that live music performances and DJ sets will typically incur higher royalty fees compared to standard recorded background music. However, the regulation provides exemptions for non-commercial settings, explicitly excluding government entities, schools, and charity events from the payment requirement.
Entrepreneurs operating in the hospitality and entertainment sectors need to prepare for this change in operational costs. It is essential to monitor announcements regarding the fee scales to ensure compliance and accurate budgeting for the next financial year. Review current music playlists and vendor agreements to understand how this new layer of licensing will affect your bottom line.
Details are in the original publication.
Want to know how this affects you?
Ask the ecosystem on Telegram — I'll personally shortlist 2–3 properties that benefit from this change.
