SCA ‘Finfluencer’ License to Regulate Digital Financial Content in UAE

By SALVUS Team Articles Digital Financial Content, Digital Media, Finfluencer, SCA, Traditional Media, UAE

As digital financial content continues to influence investment behavior across the Middle East, the UAE Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) has launched a first-of-its-kind initiative in the region: the Finfluencer License. This move establishes a formal regulatory framework for individuals offering investment recommendations or financial opinions on social media and other digital platforms. By bridging regulatory oversight and digital engagement, the UAE aims to enhance market transparency, improve investor protection, and solidify its position as a regional leader in financial innovation.

In this article, the SALVUS Regulatory Compliance team we will explore the new licensing framework through the following key questions:

1. What is the Finfluencer license, and why is it important?
2. Who qualifies as a “finfluencer” under SCA’s definition?
3. What are the main requirements and incentives?
4. What should aspiring finfluencers do next?
5. How can SALVUS assist you?

We regularly share bite-sized insights on LinkedIn such as those found in this article.

1. What is the Finfluencer License, and why is it important?

The Finfluencer License is a regulatory framework created to supervise individuals who provide investment-related content or recommendations on digital and traditional platforms. It ensures that those influencing public financial decisions are properly registered, accountable, and operate within legal boundaries. This initiative formalizes a fast-growing segment of the financial ecosystem and brings credibility to digital financial discussions.

The Finfluencer License supports the UAE’s strategic vision of becoming a global financial hub. It also demonstrates the SCA’s commitment to proactive tech-forward regulation, enhancing financial literacy and aligning local practices with international standards in digital finance.

It’s not just about regulation—it’s about empowering responsible innovation.

2. Who qualifies as a “finfluencer” under SCA’s definition?

A finfluencer is defined as any individual offering financial advice, analysis, or promotions related to regulated financial products, virtual assets, or services within the UAE through digital or traditional media. This includes creators using:

Social media platforms (e.g., Instagram, YouTube, TikTok)
Blogs and forums
Public speaking events or seminars
Written or video content on investment topics

Essentially, if your digital content influences or informs investment decisions, this license likely applies to you.

3. What are the main requirements and incentives?

To obtain the Finfluencer License, individuals must first register with the SCA and demonstrate compliance with all relevant financial regulations governing promotional and advisory content in the UAE. As part of its commitment to innovation, the SCA is waiving all registration, renewal, and legal consultation fees associated with this license for a period of three years. This incentive is intended to ease the compliance burden on aspiring finfluencers while encouraging responsible financial engagement. The waiver forms part of a broader government initiative to reduce bureaucracy and support the digital transformation of the UAE’s financial sector.

4. What should aspiring finfluencers do next?

If you produce financial content for a UAE audience, you should:

assess whether your content qualifies as finfluencer under the SCA’s definition;
begin the registration process with the SCA; and
review your compliance with all applicable financial and advertising laws.

This process involves aligning your work with regulatory standards that prioritize clarity, transparency, and investor protection. By doing so, you ensure that your content adheres to the law—and just as importantly, you build credibility with your audience. Being licensed shows that you take your influence seriously and are committed to sharing reliable, accurate, and legally compliant financial information.

Beyond compliance, this is also an opportunity to elevate your brand. As the UAE pushes toward becoming a global hub for digital finance, aligning yourself with this initiative puts you at the forefront of a regulated and respected digital financial community. So if you’re actively creating content that could impact investment decisions, it’s time to take the next step: register, understand your obligations, and use your platform responsibly.

5. How can SALVUS assist you?

The SALVUS Funds Licensing team brings a wealth of specialized knowledge and experience in navigating the complexities of licensing and regulatory compliance within the financial services sector. Our expertise extends across a diverse spectrum of business models, investment strategies, and operational objectives, allowing us to deliver customized licensing solutions that align seamlessly with your organizational goals.

As a dedicated liaison between your organization and the relevant regulatory authorities, we serve as your strategic partner throughout the entire licensing journey. From initial consultation to final approval, we handle every stage of the process with precision and diligence. This includes preparing and reviewing all required documentation, coordinating communications with regulators, and ensuring that every submission meets the highest standards of completeness and compliance.

Beyond licensing, our team plays a critical role in establishing a strong operational foundation for your entity. We assist in building a qualified and competent management team that meets regulatory expectations, while also advising on the strategic allocation of human and technological resources. Our insights help ensure that your organization is not only compliant from day one but also equipped for sustainable growth and operational efficiency.

In short, the SALVUS Funds Licensing team provides a comprehensive, end-to-end service that simplifies complex regulatory processes, minimizes risk, and positions your firm for long-term success.

Contact us at info@salvusfunds.com if you would like more information about our UAE licensing services. We are always ready to answer your questions and support you in achieving regulatory compliance.

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Should you be interested to read more about relevant topics in the UAE licensing, feel free to visit our earlier news and articles:

The information provided in this article is for general information purposes only. You should always seek professional advice suitable to your needs.

SCA ‘Finfluencer’ License to Regulate Digital Financial Content in UAE