The Official MENA Chart, which tracks music success across 13 markets including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt, has introduced a new regulatory framework to address the rise of generative AI in music production. Developed by the IFPI in collaboration with major labels like Sony, Universal, and Warner, these guidelines aim to protect human artistry while fostering innovation. To be eligible for official charts, tracks must now meet strict requirements: the AI tools used must be legally authorized, the music must be primarily human-created, and the recording must not involve any form of stream manipulation.

This initiative is a proactive step toward balancing technological advancement with the need for ethical music standards. By distinguishing between "AI-assisted" and "AI-generated" content, the industry hopes to provide listeners with transparency while ensuring that charts remain a venue for authentic artistic achievement. As Regional Director Rawan Al-Dabbas noted, the goal is to celebrate the region's diverse talent and cultural heritage while ensuring that emerging AI tools are used responsibly and without infringing on the rights of human creators.