Dubai: If you create content online, whether as a social media influencer, filmmaker, photographer, writer or podcaster, you may be eligible for a 10-year UAE Golden Visa.The visa is available through Creators HQ, an initiative launched by Dubai to attract content creators and creative professionals from around the world.According to Creators HQ, successful applicants can receive long-term residency in the UAE, allowing them to live and work in the country without the need for a local sponsor.Here is everything you need to know about the programme, including who can apply, the eligibility criteria and the application process.What is Creators HQ?Creators HQ was launched in January 2025 during the third edition of the 1 Billion Followers Summit, one of the world's largest gatherings of content creators.Based at Emirates Towers in Dubai, the initiative aims to support content creators through dedicated facilities and programmes, as well as services such as Golden Visa assistance, relocation support and company setup guidance.At the time of its launch, Dubai also announced a AED150 million Content Creators Support Fund and said the initiative aims to attract 10,000 content creators and influencers to the UAE.Who can apply?According to Creators HQ, the Golden Visa is open to individuals working in content creation and creative industries, including:Social media influencersDigital content creatorsFilmmakersPhotographersWriters and authorsPodcastersVideo producersCreative entrepreneursOther professionals working in the content creation and creative industriesWhat are the eligibility requirements?According to Creators HQ, applicants may qualify if they can demonstrate one or more of the following:Proven creative track recordApplicants should be able to show evidence of impactful content creation or creative work within their field.This may include:Published contentCreative projectsProfessional portfoliosEstablished digital platformsSuccessful campaigns or productionsIndustry recognitionCreators who have received awards, recognitions, certifications or notable achievements in their industry may strengthen their application.Contribution to the creative economyApplicants should demonstrate their potential to create value and contribute to the UAE's growing creative ecosystem.Consistent audience growth and engagementContent creators may also be assessed on their audience reach, engagement levels and growth over time.While Creators HQ has not published minimum follower thresholds, applicants are expected to demonstrate meaningful impact within their niche or industry.How to applyThe process for applying for the Golden Visa is largely online. To begin your application process, follow these steps:Step 1: Create an account with Creators HQVisit creatorshq.com and click on ‘Apply now’ on the top right corner of the website.You can either apply for the free basic membership, or the paid membership, which provides you with greater access to Creators HQ facilities and services.Step 2: Submit an applicationGo to the Golden Visa services page - https://creatorshq.com/services/golden-visa/ and click on ‘Apply now’ and fill out the form to begin your application.During the process, you may be asked to provide information about:Your professional backgroundContent portfolioCreative achievementsIndustry recognitionAudience reach and engagementOnce your application is complete, it will be reviewed by the Creators HQ team. The review process can take anywhere between four to 10 weeks, according to Creators HQ.Step 3: Receive nomination approvalIf approved, you will receive a nomination email confirming your eligibility for the Golden Visa. The email will include instructions on completing the remaining immigration procedures.Step 4: Medical testOn the same day you can visit the Index Tower Smart Salem Centre in DIFC to complete your medical test. Make sure you carry the following documents with you:Original PassportEmirates ID (if applicable)Personal Photo with white backgroundStep 5: Print Golden VisaAccording to Creators HQ, once your medical test is done, you can head to the ‘Services 1’ centre in Jumeirah Emirates Towers to process and print your GoldenVisa. In case you have an existing residence visa, you would need to first cancel it before proceeding with this step.If you a have a residence visa sponsored either by a family member or by your employer, and you decide to leave the country permanently, your residence visa must be cancelled officially. If you were on an employment visa, the cancellation process will be handled by your employer. However, if you are on a family visa, you can cancel your visa either through a registered typing centre or online through the website of the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) Dubai - www.gdrfad.gov.ae if your visa was issued in Dubai or the website of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) - www.icp.gov.ae, if your visa was issued in any other emirate.Step 6: Issue Emirates IDOnce your visa is issued, your Emirates ID will also be processed. You will receive an SMS notifying you of when the Emirates ID is ready for collection from an ICP customer happiness centre.
