Do you want to live in Dubai as a content creator? This is your opportunity! Through a new project named Creators HQ in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has extended its Golden Visa program to include digital content creators. 

With the program’s 10-year renewable residency permits, content creators from all over the world can now move to the UAE and work.

Prashant Ajmera, an immigration attorney of Ajmera Law Group, stated that “digital content creators are not limited to writers; they include individuals producing videos, audio, and artistic content for online and social media platforms.”

Creators HQ Explained

Established at Emirates Towers on January 13, 2025, Creators HQ serves as a hub for incubation and facilitation, providing resources and assistance to creators. It aims to expand its global presence while giving them access to Dubai’s tax-free environment and first-rate standard of living.

The hub has already drawn 100 users from 20 countries and has worked with well-known online businesses, including Meta, TikTok, and X.

The UAE government has contributed $40.8 million to the Content Creators Support Fund to support this effort. The fund helps with relocation services, business registrations, and Golden Visa applications.

The UAE is a center for international creators because of its cultural richness, said Minister of Cabinet Affairs Mohammad Al Gergawi. According to him, the program helps creators find capital and investors so they may develop and reach a wider audience.

Golden Visa Benefits

First introduced in 2019, the UAE Golden Visa opens the door to exclusive benefits and long-term residency. Mamta Shekhawat, founder of Gradding.com, highlights some key advantages that make this opportunity even more rewarding:

• Residency: Have the possibility to extend your stay in the UAE for an additional 10 years.
• Travel: Take pleasure in easy access and departure.
• Work freedom: Make money without needing an employment contract or work permission.
• Business ownership: Create and entirely own enterprises.
• Family sponsorship: Bring domestic workers and family members with you on the visa.
• Tax-free income: Increase your income while avoiding personal income tax.
• Healthcare access: Take advantage of the cutting-edge medical facilities in the UAE.

Who Can Apply?

Here’s what you need to qualify for the prestigious Content Creator Golden Visa:

• Age: Candidates must be at least 25 years old.
• Professional achievements: A track record of producing digital content.
• Business plan: A comprehensive strategy outlining the UAE’s content production operations.
• Financial stability: Evidence of having enough money for investments or resources.

The necessary paperwork includes a current passport, proof of age, professional qualifications, a portfolio of prior work, and financial accounts. “If needed, Creator HQ can help with company registration, permits, visa applications, and media council approvals for creators with a strong track record at the national or international level,” Ajmera explained.

Be aware that, depending on the type of work they do, artists, influencers, or independent contractors can pay yearly fees ranging from AED 1,000 to AED 20,000.

Depending on the applicant’s line of work, the program’s annual fees might range from AED 1,000 (Rs 23,565) to AED 20,000 (Rs 4,71,310). Additionally, Creator HQ assists creators in locating space for their businesses.

“This visa might not be appropriate for Indian content creators unless their influence and work are worldwide. Ajmera pointed out that there is intense competition and that creators must follow the rules for operating independent businesses.

Application Process

There are numerous crucial processes involved in applying for the Golden Visa:

• Eligibility Verification: Verify that you fulfill the requirements, which may include having a sizable following, evidence of monetization, or a solid content portfolio.
• Documentation: Compile the required materials, such as brand partnerships, a portfolio of your work, or social media stats.
• Application Submission: For in-person help, visit a Customer Happiness Center or apply online through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) website or app.
• Creators HQ Support: For assistance with business setup, relocation, and visa applications, use Creators HQ’s services.
• Processing Time and Fees: The average processing time is 48 hours, and the cost of a residence permit is about AED 1,100 (other fees may apply).

Opportunities in Other Countries

The Golden Visa offered by the UAE is appealing, but there are comparable chances abroad. 

According to Shekhawat, Costa Rica provides the Rentista Visa for remote workers, Portugal gives the D7 Visa for people with steady incomes, and Mexico offers a Temporary Resident Visa for internet professionals.

“Globally, freelancers and startups have various opportunities. According to Ajmera, freelancers can seek out nations that grant visas for digital nomads, while startups might investigate visa programs.