Dubai is quickly establishing itself as a global center for creativity, and its newest initiative, Creators HQ, is speeding up this evolution by offering digital content creators an incredible opportunity: a 10-year renewable UAE Golden Visa. Launched in January 2025, this program is all about attracting and supporting creators from around the world, giving them residency, business advantages, and a dynamic ecosystem to help their brands and businesses thrive.

In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at what Creators HQ is, who it benefits, the perks for both the UAE and the creators, and the fees and expenses you need to be aware of.

What Is Creators HQ?

Creators HQ is a government-supported initiative in Dubai that provides digital content creators like influencers, filmmakers, podcasters, photographers, animators, and other creative professionals – a pathway to long-term residency through the Golden Visa program.

Officially launched on January 13, 2025, at the 1 Billion Followers Summit in Emirates Towers, Dubai, Creators HQ is part of the UAE’s broader vision to diversify its economy beyond oil and become a global hub for the digital economy and creative innovation.The program aims to attract 10,000 content creators globally, backed by a Content Creators Support Fund worth AED 150 million to nurture talent, provide mentorship, and facilitate business growth.

Who Is Eligible?

Creators HQ is excited to welcome a wide variety of digital creators, including:

• Social media influencers on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and X.
• Filmmakers, podcasters, photographers, animators, and visual artists.
• Creative professionals working in advertising, marketing, digital agencies, and media.
  

Basic eligibility requirements include:

• You should be at least 25 years old.
• A strong portfolio showcasing your work, along with brand partnerships, awards, or media mentions, is a must.
• You’ll need a solid business plan or proposal that outlines what you’ll be doing in the UAE.
• Financial stability or the ability to invest is also required.

If you’re working in UAE free zones, you may need to obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your employer or the free zone authority.

Benefits of the Creators HQ Golden Visa

Benefits for the UAE

• Attracts Global Talent: Positions Dubai as a global creative capital, enhancing its international reputation.
• Economic Diversification: Supports UAE’s Vision 2031 by growing the digital and creative economy sectors.
• Boosts Local Economy: Creators contribute to SMEs by collaborating with local brands, employing support staff, and increasing demand for services.
• Enhances Soft Power: Influencers become organic ambassadors, improving the UAE’s global image.
• Controlled Migration: Ensures selective, high-value migration aligned with national goals.

Benefits for Digital Creators

• 10-Year Residency Visa: Enjoy the freedom to live and work in the UAE without needing a local sponsor, plus the option to sponsor family members.
• 100% Business Ownership: Enjoy the freedom to live and work in the UAE without needing a local sponsor, plus the option to sponsor family members.
• Tax Advantages: 0% personal income tax and corporate tax exemptions in many zones.
• Creative Ecosystem Access: Gain entry to over 300 workshops, mentorship programs, and events each year at Creators HQ.
• Platform Partnerships: Collaboration opportunities with Meta, TikTok, X, and others for global exposure.
• Relocation Support: Get help with visa processing, setting up your business, finding housing, schooling, and banking.
• Legal & Compliance Help: Receive guidance on media licensing, intellectual property protection, contracts, and influencer permits.

Fees and Expenses for Creators HQ Golden Visa and Business Setup

Golden Visa Application Fees

Service	Estimated Cost (AED)	Description
Application & Review	AED 1,150 – 1,500	Eligibility verification fee
10-Year Golden Visa Fee	AED 2,790 – 3,860	Visa stamping, Emirates ID, biometrics
Medical Examination	AED 350 – 700	Required for residency
Emirates ID	AED 1,070 – 1,500	10-year identity card
Total Estimated	AED 5,500 – 7,500	Excludes optional services

Business Setup Costs (Optional but Common)

Expense Type	Approximate Cost (AED)	Notes
Trade License (Creative/Media)	AED 5,000 – 15,000/year	Mainland or Free Zone license
Name Reservation & Approvals	AED 1,000 – 1,500	Business registration costs
Office Space / Desk Lease	AED 6,000 – 12,000/year	Flexi-desk or shared office required
Bank Account Setup	AED 1,000 – 2,500	Includes minimum balance  requirements

 

E-Startup takes care of everything for you, from getting your name approved to handling your license and Emirates ID processing. This way, you can enjoy a hassle-free setup that’s completely compliant!

Family Sponsorship Fees (Optional)

Member	Estimated Cost (AED)	Includes
Spouse / Child Visa	AED 3,500 – 5,000	Visa, medical, Emirates ID
Sponsorship File Processing	AED 2,000 – 3,000	One-time fee
Education Certificate Attestation	AED 300 – 500	For spouse or dependents

 

Want to move with your family? Let E-Startup handle your dependent visa process without delays.

Why Digital Creators Often Set Up a Business in the UAE

• Legal Compliance: Having the right licenses means creators can operate without worrying about fines.
• Contractual Legitimacy: Enables signing contracts and invoicing clients locally and internationally.
• Financial Benefits:  They can enjoy tax-free income and have the ability to claim business expenses.
• Business Growth: It makes it easier to hire staff, scale operations, and attract investments.
• Visa Sponsorship:This option allows them to sponsor residency for themselves and their families.
• Credibility: A licensed company enhances brand trust and professionalism.
• Support Access: Opens doors to government services, mentorship, and business resources.

Thousands of creators are already turning their dreams into reality by building their businesses in Dubai. Will you be the next one to join them?

Step-by-Step Process

• Check Eligibility  

You should be at least 25 years old and have a solid portfolio as a digital creator. You’ll also need a business plan that outlines your plans to operate in the UAE. If you’re working in a UAE Free Zone, don’t forget to get a No Objection Certificate (NOC).

• Prepare Documents  

Next, gather all the important documents you’ll need. This includes your passport, samples of your creative work, your business plan, some photos, and proof of finances to back up your application.

• Submit Online Application  

Now it’s time to apply. Creators HQ or the UAE visa platform, where you can upload your documents and pay a fee that usually falls between AED 1,150 and AED 1,500.

• Application Review & Nomination  

Your application will be reviewed within 4 to 10 weeks. During this time, officials might reach out for interviews or ask for additional information before they give you approval .

• Complete Medical Examination  

You’ll need to visit an approved health center in the UAE for some blood tests and a chest X-ray, which typically costs between AED 350 and AED 700.

• Visa Issuance & Emirates ID  

Once you get approval , you’ll need to pay the visa fees, which range from AED 2,790 to AED 3,860, and then register for your Emirates ID to officially establish your residency.

• Set Up Your Business (Optional)  

If you’re looking to set up a business, you can apply for a freelance or company license in either a Free Zone or on the Mainland. Setup fees can vary, starting from AED 7,500 and going up to AED 20,000 or more.

Want a clear breakdown of what it’ll cost you?Read our previous blog for a detailed list of visa fees, license types, and setup costs .

• Sponsor Family Members (If Needed)  

If you want to bring your family or relatives , you can sponsor them by submitting their visa applications and paying around AED 3,500 to AED 5,000 for each person.

• Engage with Creators HQ Community  

Get involved with the Creators HQ community .You can take part in training, mentorship, and collaborations with partners like TikTok, YouTube, and Meta.

• Maintain Compliance  

Don’t forget to renew your Golden Visa every 10 years, keep your trade license up to date, and stay compliant with UAE tax and media regulations.

Conclusion

Dubai’s Creators HQ initiative isn’t just another visa program, it’s a game-changing investment in your creative journey. With a 10-year Golden Visa designed specifically for digital creators, the UAE is rolling out the red carpet for global talent to build, grow, and monetize their creative brands from a top-notch business hub. Enjoying benefits like stable residency, access to major tech and content platforms (think TikTok, Meta, and YouTube), support for setting up your business, and being part of a booming digital economy. The UAE is truly a unique place to help creators transform their passion into a steady income.

Whether you’re an influencer, a content strategist, a filmmaker, a designer, or an educator this is your golden opportunity to dive into a region that’s heavily investing in the future of content, AI, media, and entrepreneurship.

Start creating. Start earning. Start in Dubai — with E-Startup.

SOURCES – https://creatorshq.com/ , https://www.wam.ae/en/home/main

Frequently Asked Questions  (FAQs)

1. What is the Creators HQ initiative?

Creators HQ is a government-backed program launched in January 2025 in Dubai to attract and support global digital content creators. It offers eligible creatives a 10-year renewable UAE Golden Visa and access to funding, mentorship, and business support.

2. Who qualifies for the Creators HQ Golden Visa?

To be eligible, you need to meet the following criteria:

• Be at least 25 years old
• Identify as a digital creator (like an influencer, podcaster, animator, filmmaker, etc.)
• Have a solid creative portfolio and a recognizable brand presence
• Be able to present a business plan for your operations in the UAE
• Show financial stability or a willingness to invest in the UAE

3. Do I need to be in Dubai to apply?

Not at all! You can apply online through the UAE’s digital visa platform. However, once your application is approved, you will need to travel to Dubai for a medical examination and to register for your Emirates ID.

4. How long does the application process take?

Typically, the review process takes about 4 to 10 weeks. You might be asked to attend an interview or provide additional documents before you receive final approval.

5. What are the costs involved in getting the Golden Visa?

The costs associated with the visa usually range from AED 5,500 to AED 7,500, not including any optional services. If you decide to set up a business, sponsor family members, or need relocation services, additional fees may apply.

6. Can I bring my family on this visa?

Absolutely! You can sponsor your spouse, children, and other dependents. The costs for dependent visas range from AED 3,500 to AED 5,000 per person, plus a one-time processing fee.

7. Do I need to set up a business to apply for the visa?

While it’s not a strict requirement, it’s definitely a smart move. Setting up a Free Zone or Mainland company in the UAE can really boost your legal, financial, and operational game as a creator.

8. What kind of business license should I apply for?

Most digital creators opt for a freelance permit or a creative/media trade license from Free Zones like Dubai Media City, Dubai Internet City, or Shams. The costs can vary, typically falling between AED 7,500 and AED 20,000, depending on the type of license and where you’re located.

9. What are the tax benefits for creators under this program?

The UAE is pretty attractive with its 0% personal income tax. If you establish your business in a Free Zone, you might also qualify for corporate tax exemptions, which depend on your revenue and the nature of your business activities.

10. Can E-Startup help with the full process?

Absolutely! E-Startup provides comprehensive support from submitting your application and setting up your business to handling visa processing, Emirates ID registration, family sponsorship, and compliance advice.