The United Arab Emirates has granted licenses to around 1,700 individuals to operate in the country as social media influencers.
The new law to regulate operations of social media influencers were passed last year.
Influencers need to pay Dh15,000 to post content promoting brands on social media.
Business owners called out ‘freeloaders’ who ask for services and accommodation for free publicity.
The National Media Council (NMC) encourages business owners to work with accredited social media influencers.
Hotel owners said that the new regulation will help promote professionalism and will help companies avoid rogue influencers.
