UAE bans foreigners from speaking in the style of locals in media
New media policy bars non-citizens from adopting Emirati linguistic style or appearing on TV in national context
UAE Restricts Media Representation to Nationals to Preserve Cultural Identity
Abu Dhabi: In the UAE, non-citizens are not allowed to speak like UAE citizens or appear in the media. Speaking in the UAE style on channels is restricted to nationals only.
Some media outlets misrepresent the UAE’s linguistic style and cultural symbols, which is why non-native speakers are prohibited from speaking in this manner on channels.
A new policy was implemented three months ago that prohibits non-nationals and those not wearing national dress from participating in channel programs and speaking about projects, said Abdullah bin Mohammed Al Hamid, Chairman of the National Media Office and Emirates Media Council.
Abdullah bin Mohammed Al Hamid said that such a restriction was implemented to convey the true identity of UAE society to others.
