In a bold move to establish itself as the world’s premier destination for digital content creators, Dubai has unveiled the Creators HQ at Emirates Towers, backed by a substantial AED 150 million ($40.8 million) Content Creators Support Fund. The initiative, which aims to attract 10,000 influencers to the UAE, represents a significant step in the emirate’s strategy to diversify its economy and cement its position as a global hub for digital innovation.
The launch, which took place during the third edition of the 1 Billion Followers Summit, marks Dubai’s latest effort to tap into the booming creator economy. The summit, held under the theme ‘Content for Good,’ brought together an impressive gathering of over 15,000 content creators, 420 speakers, and 125 CEOs and global experts at Dubai’s Emirates Towers, DIFC, and the Museum of the Future.
What sets this initiative apart is its comprehensive approach to creator support. The Creators HQ isn’t just another co-working space – it’s a full-service institution designed to address every aspect of a content creator’s professional journey. Members will receive assistance with the coveted UAE Golden Visa applications, relocation support, and guidance for company setup and registration. The Golden Visa program, which allows recipients to stay in the UAE for five to ten years without requiring a national sponsor or regular renewal, represents a significant incentive for international creators considering a move to Dubai.
In a significant development, the hub has already formed a strategic partnership with Meta to launch the “Creators for Purpose” program. This collaboration aims to empower regional creators to produce meaningful content that promotes positivity across Instagram and Facebook, further highlighting the UAE’s commitment to fostering responsible digital content creation.
The facility will host more than 300 events and workshops annually, offering comprehensive training programs led by industry experts. These programs will cover essential skills such as branding, video production, storytelling, audience engagement, monetization strategies, and sponsorship opportunities. Additionally, the hub will provide creative camps for youth, mentorship opportunities, and funding support for promising creators.
Dubai’s vision extends beyond just social media influencers. The Creators HQ aims to attract a diverse range of creative professionals, including podcasters, visual artists, advertising and marketing firms, media and music producers, animation studios, and fashion and lifestyle brands. The initiative also seeks to establish partnerships with technology companies, including streaming services, gaming and esports firms, virtual and augmented reality developers, and AI startups, creating a fully integrated creative ecosystem.
The timing of this initiative is particularly strategic, as the creator economy continues to grow globally. By positioning itself as a creator-friendly destination with world-class infrastructure, tax benefits, and now specialized support for digital content creators, Dubai is setting itself up to capture a significant share of this rapidly expanding market.
The creation of the Creators HQ, funded by the Content Creators Support Fund launched in 2024, demonstrates Dubai’s commitment to fostering innovation in the digital content sector.
This initiative aligns with Dubai’s broader economic diversification strategy, adding another layer to its growing reputation as a global hub for innovation and digital media. By providing comprehensive support to content creators, from visa assistance to professional development and networking opportunities, Dubai is creating an ecosystem that could potentially reshape the global creator economy landscape.
The success of this ambitious project could have far-reaching implications for both Dubai and the creator economy at large. If successful in attracting its target of 10,000 influencers, the initiative could establish Dubai as the world’s premier destination for digital content creation, while simultaneously contributing to the emirate’s economic diversification goals and strengthening its position in the global digital economy.
As the world continues to embrace digital transformation, Dubai’s investment in the creator economy positions it at the forefront of this cultural and economic shift. The Creators HQ represents not just an opportunity for content creators, but a strategic move to shape the future of digital content creation on a global scale.
