UAE Golden Visa: 10-Year Residency for Creators & Freelancers

Dubai has offered a 10-year residency for content creators, freelancers, and influencers. The newly launched Creators HQ aims to attract key players from the creative industries, including advertising, media, music, animation, and fashion. For some time now, it has been seen that the Dubai government is looking to attract freelancers, i.e. those who earn money online. This move will be very good for them and help the country grow.

The UAE government says that we provide the best platform for content creators, where they can live, work, and create content without hassle. At the same time, they do not need to worry about long-term residence visas.

The program targets a diverse range of creative individuals, including social media influencers, digital content creators, podcasters, and visual artists. In addition, it aims to attract key players in the creative industries, such as advertising and marketing firms, media and music producers, animation studios, and fashion and lifestyle brands.

Mohammed Al-Ghargawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs Said:

“Our main goal is to bring global content creators together in the UAE, where they will receive support and be able to connect with investors to grow their creations,”

Earlier, a visa was announced for Indian women who want to come to Dubai to work as freelancers.


How to apply for a Golden Visa?

If you are looking to apply for a Golden Visa, content creators can apply for a Golden Visa by filling out the application form on the Creators HQ website. Once the application is submitted, it will be reviewed, and the HQ team will verify the candidate’s eligibility.

Upon approval, candidates will receive a nomination email, which will provide instructions on the next steps to complete the visa process. For updates on the status of the application, you can contact [email protected]. This is a golden opportunity for individuals who are looking to move to Dubai.

Who is eligible?

This long-term resident visa is open to talented individuals who have an impact in the creative sector. Whether they are social media influencers, filmmakers, photographers, writers, or any type of content creator, this visa supports those who are active in the creative and innovative field.

You may be eligible if you:

  • Have a proven track record of creating content.
  • You have received recognition or awards for your creative work.
  • Can play a significant role in the UAE’s creative community.
  • Can demonstrate consistent growth and engagement in your content.

Golden Visa Process

  • Apply: Fill out the application form on the Creators HQ website.
  • Nomination Email: Upon approval, you will receive an email confirming your Golden Visa eligibility.
  • Medical Test: Go for a medical test at Smart Salem Index Towers.

Required Documents:

  • Original Passport
  • Emirati ID Card (if available)
  • Personal Photo with White Background

This initiative positions the UAE as a hub for creativity, offering content creators the chance to turn their dreams into reality.


Creators HQ Features

  • Partnerships with tech companies: Collaborations with well-known companies like Meta, TikTok, and X.
  • AED 150 million fund: A fund dedicated to financially supporting creative projects and innovators.
  • Targeting 10,000 Influencers: Commitment to making Dubai a global hub for digital media.

Why choose the UAE?

The UAE Golden Visa and Freelancer Visa not only promote creativity but are also a major step towards making the country a global hub for the creative economy. If you are a content creator, influencer, or freelancer, the UAE is the perfect place to take your career to new heights.

Through partnerships with leading tech companies like Meta, TikTok, and X, Creators HQ has already welcomed 100 members from 20 countries. Its members will have access to exclusive benefits and services, such as assistance with Golden Visa applications, relocation support, and company formation and registration. Creators HQ plans to attract 10,000 influencers to the city and position itself as a leading destination for digital media.

The UAE Golden Visa allows individuals to stay in the country for up to 10 years. It is a visa that does not require visa renewal or a sponsor. It encourages creators to stay for a long time.


Here is What YouTubers, Podcasters, and Creators Say!


“This is a significant step towards professionalizing the creative economy in Dubai and the region,” said Anil Lobo, a local content creator in Dubai. He described it as a “vital platform” for regional creators.


This is not just a place for collaboration, but a system that supports the growth of creators more systematically,” said the 32-year-old award-winning creator. “Access to resources, guidance, and connections will enable creators to generate engagement, create a reliable source of income, and in many cases, build sustainable careers in content creation without relying on other jobs.”

This initiative promotes the growing market for podcasts and shows in the UAE. For YouTubers, podcasters, and opinion leaders like me, this is a game changer, as the growing market also raises the quality of content,” said Mike Thurston, host of the First Things THRST podcast, which is ranked among the top 10 podcasts in the world.


When I started this podcast two years ago, there weren’t many podcasts in the region. I’m glad that the market is growing because of the UAE initiative. It inspires me to create new projects and explore more formats,” added Mike, a global fitness influencer.


Creators HQ will help bring more talent to the country and create new opportunities for them. On the business side, I have also personally explored investment opportunities in the UAE media market and am monitoring its development,” said Vadim Fedotov, former professional basketball player and founder of Bioniq.


A 150 million dirham fund has been allocated to support creators, innovators, and creative initiatives, which will accelerate the development of the digital content sector.

What do you say about this announcement? Comment below with your opinion.

Sources:

Ayesha Hassan
Ayesha Hassan

I am Ayesha Hassan, a lifestyle and travel writer specializing in UAE tourism, expat living, and luxury experiences. With experience working alongside top travel agencies and hospitality brands, I provide expert insights into cultural attractions, travel planning, and cost-of-living guides, helping expats and tourists explore the UAE with confidence.

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  1. This is a game-changer for the creative community in the UAE! Does the 10-year residency allow us to work with international clients while being based here, or are there any restrictions? Would love to know more about the application process too.

    • Hello Omar Khalid, great question! The UAE Golden Visa allows creators and freelancers to work with both local and international clients while being based in the UAE. There are no restrictions on working with global clients, making it an ideal opportunity for those in the creative field. The application process is straightforward, and we’d be happy to guide you through it. Feel free to reach out to us for assistance or more details. Thank you for your interest!

  2. This is such an exciting opportunity for creators and freelancers in the UAE! Could you please clarify if the Golden Visa also covers family members, like spouses and children? Also, are there any specific income requirements for freelancers to qualify?

    • Hi Sarah Ahmed, thank you for your question! Yes, the UAE Golden Visa does cover family members, including spouses and children, allowing them to enjoy the same 10-year residency benefits. As for income requirements, freelancers need to demonstrate a consistent income level, which varies depending on the profession and industry.

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