The National Media Authority (NMA) has issued a directive requiring prior official approval for any images or videos featuring national symbols or public figures created using artificial intelligence or other advanced technical tools. This policy is designed to ensure strict adherence to established media content standards across the country.
In alignment with this regulatory move, the UAE Government Media Office has introduced a specialized guide for assistant AI use, specifically tailored for government communication teams. This initiative was unveiled during a workshop titled “AI in Government Communication,” hosted in collaboration with the New Media Academy during a recent Government Communication Network meeting.
Saeed Al Eter, head of the Media Office, noted that the guide marks a significant practical advancement in the government communication framework. He emphasized that these tools are intended to empower teams to enhance work efficiency, accelerate project delivery, and improve the quality and accuracy of official messaging. According to Al Eter, the technology offers communication professionals new ways to analyze data, understand audiences, and craft more impactful stories that resonate with the public.
Al Eter clarified that AI is not a substitute for human expertise but rather a powerful resource that frees up time for strategic planning and creative development. The new guide serves as a comprehensive, unified framework assisting government staff through every stage of production, including research, content drafting, visual material creation, monitoring, and final impact analysis.
To ensure responsible and safe implementation, the documentation provides clear principles for identifying appropriate use cases, drafting effective commands, and rigorously verifying AI-generated outputs. The guide covers critical pillars such as workflow management, creative production, and visual communication, while placing a strong emphasis on institutional oversight.
Communication teams are instructed to remain vigilant regarding potential risks associated with AI, such as information accuracy, privacy concerns, potential bias, and the risk of misleading content. By integrating technology with professional human oversight, the NMA and the Government Media Office aim to ensure that all digital outputs remain credible, verified, and aligned with government standards.
