Dubai Municipality sets new rules for what outdoor adverts can show

Dubai Municipality has issued the Advertising Content Regulation Guidelines for the Emirate of Dubai, a single reference for the content and design of outdoor advertising. It adds to the existing rules on where and how adverts may be placed, and now deals with what they show.

The guidelines cover written text, images, logos, animation, promotional displays, interactive elements and the use of landmarks and symbols. They focus on clear messages, design quality, consumer protection, road and public safety, and respect for local identity and cultural values, and they take account of digital screens, artificial intelligence and new advertising formats.

Bader Anwahi, CEO of the Public Facilities Agency at Dubai Municipality, said the aim is clear and consistent standards that support creativity while keeping the quality and identity of public spaces.

The rules apply to advertising agencies, brands, businesses, designers, government and semi-government bodies and anyone who supplies outdoor advertising. The municipality says the guidelines should be used from the first design stage and are meant to make approvals simpler. A start date and penalties have not been announced. Businesses can request the full guidelines from the Dubai Municipality call centre on 800900.