Dubai is the best launchpad for content creators, allowing them to live, work, and create content without having to worry about relocation, workspace, or a long-term residency permit.
The newly formed Creators HQ is an incubation center for creative individuals looking to grow their global reach. This pioneering effort enables artists to multiply their impact and forge long-term paths to success in the ever-expanding creator economy.
The initiative targets a wide range of talent, including social media influencers, digital content makers, podcasters, and visual artists. It also seeks to attract significant actors in the creative sectors, including advertising and marketing organizations, media and music producers, animation studios, and fashion and lifestyle brands.
“Our main aim is for global content creators to gather in the UAE, where they will find support and connect to funding and investors so they can innovate and expand their reach,” Mohammad Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs, said during the launch.
“It’s a step forward in professionalising the creator economy in Dubai and the region,” said Dubai-based content creator Anil Lobo, calling the HQ a “much-needed platform” for regional creators.
“It’s not just a space for collaboration but also a system that supports creators’ growth in a more structured way. Access to resources, mentorship, and connections will allow creators to generate engagement, build a reliable income stream, and, in many cases, aim for a sustainable career in content creation without needing to rely on other jobs,” said the 32-year-old award-winning creator.
Through agreements with prominent tech businesses such as Meta, TikTok, and X, the HQ has already welcomed 100 members from 20 different countries. Its members will have access to unique advantages and services, such as help with Golden Visa applications, relocation aid, and company setup and registration. The headquarters intends to draw 10,000 influencers to the city and establish itself as a top destination for digital media.
The UAE Golden Visa permits people to stay in the country for ten years without having to renew their visas or find a sponsor, encouraging long-term residency for innovators.
“The initiative boosts the growing podcasts and shows market in the UAE. For YouTubers, podcasters, and opinion leaders like myself, this is a game-changer, as the expanding market also raises the standards for content quality,” said Mike Thurston, First Things THRST podcast host, ranked among the top 10 global podcasts.
“When I started the First Things THRST podcast two years ago, there weren’t many podcasts in the region. I am delighted to see the market growing, fuelled by the UAE’s initiatives. This inspires me to create new projects and explore more formats as well,” added Mike, who is also a global fitness influencer.
“The HQ will help bring more talent to the country and create new opportunities for them and local businesses. Regarding business aspects, I have also, on a personal level, explored investment opportunities in the UAE media market and am actively monitoring its development,” said Vadim Fedotov, former pro basketball player, entrepreneur and founder of Bioniq.
A Dh150 million fund is designed to helping creators, inventors, and creative ventures, thereby accelerating the growth of the digital content business.
