The UAE Media Council has implemented new regulations that require content creators and influencers who earn income from online platforms to obtain a business licence in addition to the existing electronic and digital media activities licence. These changes, introduced on May 29, 2025, are part of a wider framework to professionalize the media industry and ensure that content across digital and traditional channels is ethical, responsible, and high-quality. While influencers are now required to take additional administrative steps, the business licence fee will be waived for the first three years. The move is tied to the UAE’s first media law in over four decades, which also includes plans for new policies on licensing digital news platforms and age-based content classification.
As part of its effort to support the creator economy, Dubai established the Creators HQ to assist up to 10,000 influencers with both licensing and the application process for the UAE Golden Visa. This 10-year residency visa allows content creators, photographers, writers, and other creatives to live and work in the UAE without the need for a sponsor. To be eligible, applicants must demonstrate a track record of impactful content or creative work, have received recognition or awards, and show consistent growth and potential to contribute to the UAE’s creative economy. The Creators HQ also acts as the official endorsing body for the visa, increasing an applicant’s chance of approval compared to applying directly through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security.
To apply for the Golden Visa under the content creator category, applicants must complete an online form through the Creators HQ website. If eligible, they will receive a nomination email within four to ten weeks. Following this, candidates must undergo a medical test at Smart Salem in DIFC and bring a valid passport, Emirates ID (if available), and a recent photo with a white background. Once the medical is cleared, the next step is to cancel any existing UAE visa and visit the Services 1 Centre at Jumeirah Emirates Towers to process the new Golden Visa. After approval, a new Emirates ID is issued within approximately two days by the Federal Authority. For updates or questions, applicants can contact goldenvisa@creatorshq.com.
