Strategy, marketing and ambition. This is the raw material that was conjugated to give life to the mega plan of Dubai, which inaugurated CREATORS HQa comprehensive center that aims to turn the Emirate into the favorite global destination of content creators.
The bet is supported by a CONTENT CREATOR SUPPORT FUND of 150 million AED (about US $ 40.8 million) and a clear goal: attract 10,000 influencers from around the world.
The project was presented a few months ago in the third edition of the Summit of one billion followersmade in the Emirates Towers, the DIFC and the Museum of the Future. In that event they participated 15,000 content creators, 420 speakers and 125 CEO and specialists in digital platforms.
The mecca of digital content. Creators HQ is not limited to offering desks or spaces to record. The headquarters acts as a service platform that covers all stages of creative work. Who join, are facilitated by the request for the Golden Visaa permit that allows to reside in the United Arab Emirates between five and ten years No need for local sponsor or constant renewal procedures.
In addition, the program includes Assistance in the move, legal and accounting support and guide to assemble a company in the country.
The alliance with goal raises the profile of the project. The joint program, called “Creators with purpose”, It aims to stimulate the generation of positive content on Instagram and Facebook, with training and logistics support. The agreement seeks to strengthen the image of the Emirate as a promoter of responsible practices in the digital ecosystem.
During the year, More than 300 events and workshops are planned with experts. The activities will focus on branding, audiovisual production, monetization, interaction with audiences and sponsorships. They are also promoted Creative camps for young people, personalized mentoring programs and funds for emerging projects.
From social networks to gaming. Although the media focus is on social networks influencers, the project also contemplates attracting podcasters, illustrators, content producers, animation studies, fashion firms, video game companies, augmented reality developers and artificial intelligence startups.
The strategy is part of a broader plan of economic diversificationwith which Dubai seeks to reduce its dependence on oil. With tax incentives, high -end infrastructure and a strong investment in digital industries, the Emirate tries to position itself as a Real alternative to Silicon Valley for professionals of the creative economy.
Financial support is key in this attempt at global seduction. The 150 million AED fund will allow subsidies to provide content campaigns and cover operational expenses of the new creative residents. With that economic base, Dubai seeks to attract talent from Latin America, Europe, Asia and North America.
“We want the creators to see Dubai as a home for their ideas and projects, where they find support and freedom to grow”said one of the organizers of the summit. The message aims to consolidate a community of innovators that transform the Emirate into a digital node with global weight.
The measure also responds to the market growth of digital content, that moves billions of dollars per year and modifies consumption, advertising and communication patterns. By offering favorable conditions, the EAU government tries to capture a relevant portion of that business.
The rise of the economy of the creators in the region. According to a PWC reportthe income of the media and entertainment sector in the Middle East and Africa grew at an annual compound rate (CAGR) of 9.5 %, going from US $ 57.7 billion in 2019 to an estimated US $ 99.4 billion in 2025. In the case of Emirates and Dubai, a 9 % CAGR between 2021 and 2028 is expected
An article of Times of India He emphasizes that “Dubai became an attractive center for creators for its strategic location, first level infrastructure, government support policies and its vibrant digital economy.”
In this context, the opening of Creators HQ ratifies the will of the Emirate to get fully into the dispute for leadership in the digital economy. While other cities bet on financial services or tourism, Dubai wants to become the nerve center of influencers and digital creators. With budget, special visas and corporate support, the plan is already underway.
*Laura Malagón is co-fount of We Love Media.
by Laura Malagón
