Journalists routinely practice self-censorship when reporting on government policy, national security, and religion and refrain from criticizing the ruling families. The print media are largely privately owned but receive government subsidies. All publications must be licensed by the ministry of education. Foreign publications are censored before distribution. The broadcast media are government-owned and present only government views.
Satellite dishes are widely owned and provide foreign broadcasting without censorship.
The government restricts freedom of assembly and association. Permits are required for public organized gatherings. Some emirates permit conferences where government policies are discussed, but all private associations must be non-political. Islam is the official religion in the UAE, and most citizens are Sunni Muslims. Shi'ite Muslims are free to maintain mosques, and non-Muslims are free to practice their religions.