Content Regulation in the UAE: ‘The Wolf of Wall Street’

Analysis

Media content regulation has again become a topical issue in the UAE following the release of the film ‘The Wolf of Wall Street’, which was heavily edited for release in this jurisdiction.

It has been reported that prior to screening in the UAE, approximately 45 minutes were cut from the film, including scenes depicting sexual activity and drug use. In addition, profanities were muted.

Many expressed frustration at the extent of the edits which recently brought this issue to the forefront. Moviegoers reportedly claimed that the cut version left the film, which is one of the most critically acclaimed motion pictures of the year, choppy and almost unintelligible.

In the UAE, traditional media content and digital media content, including television shows and film, is regulated. The key laws and regulations are:

National Media Council’s Resolution No 20 of 2010 on the Criteria for Media Content (“NMC Content Guidelines”), which applies to all media, audio-visual and print institutions in the UAE. The NMC Content Guidelines require all media companies to comply with specific criteria including respect for the principles of Islamic beliefs and the cultural heritage of the UAE.