Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) has issued a circular emphasising the need for licensed economic establishments in the emirate to comply with the rules when contracting with social media influencers, according to a Wam news agency report.

The ADDED outlined the following requirements:

* Social media influencers must obtain a licence from the department to practice the activity of advertising services through websites;

* Economic establishments must obtain a permit from ADDED when carrying out any advertisements (advertising, promotional, or marketing); and

* Establishments must ensure that they have a valid licence issued by ADDED when contracting with influencers and social networking sites.

Non-compliance with these controls and requirements when contracting with social media influencers will subject the concerned establishment to penalties and violations stipulated in the table of violations, it said.

Failure to comply with the circulars and controls issued by ADDED may lead to the closure of the economic establishment. According to the circular, the penalties will start from AED3,000 and reach AED10,000.