UAE to charge music licensing fees at cafes, hotels and malls

The United Arab Emirates is set to introduce licensing fees for playing music at cafes, hotels, malls and other commercial venues.

DUBAI: The United Arab Emirates is set to introduce licensing fees for playing music at cafes, hotels, malls and other commercial venues.

According to UAE authorities, a music licence will be required for commercial use of music from December. The new fee will apply to businesses and commercial establishments that play music for customers.

The licence will remain valid for one year. Businesses will be required to renew it annually to continue using music commercially.

Authorities said educational institutions and government organisations will be exempt from the licensing fee. Non-commercial events will also not be required to pay the fee.

The new licensing system has been introduced to protect the copyright and intellectual property rights of singers and other music creators.

Officials said the system is intended to ensure that artists and rights holders receive appropriate protection when their music is used commercially.

Authorities have also warned that action may be taken against establishments that play music without obtaining the required licence.

The new rules are expected to affect a wide range of commercial venues across the UAE, including hospitality and retail businesses.