Apply for the UAE Golden Visa as an Influencer – 2025 Guide

Discover the complete 2025 guide to getting a UAE Golden Visa for influencers. Learn about eligibility, licensing, Creators HQ, and the step-by-step application process.

How to Apply for a UAE Golden Visa as a Social Media Influencer (2025 Guide)

In 2025, the UAE expanded its Golden Visa program to include social media influencers and digital content creators. This long-term residency initiative is designed to attract top talent to the country’s thriving creative economy. Influencers across platforms like YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, LinkedIn, and podcasts can now secure a 10-year UAE residency visa under the “creative professionals” category.

This comprehensive guide provides up-to-date information on how influencers can qualify, the required documentation, and how to navigate the endorsement process through Dubai Culture or the UAE Media Council.

What Is the UAE Golden Visa for Influencers?

The Golden Visa is a 10-year renewable residency permit granted to individuals who make significant contributions to the UAE’s economy or society. Influencers and content creators now fall under the “creative professionals” classification, allowing them to live and work in the UAE without a local sponsor.

Key Benefits of Golden Visa:

• 10-year renewable residency
• No need for a local sponsor or employer
• 0% personal income tax
• Ability to sponsor spouse, children, and parents
• Access to UAE banking, property ownership, and business services
• Recognition as a contributor to the UAE’s creative sector

UAE Golden Visa: Eligibility Criteria for Influencers

To qualify for the UAE Golden Visa as an influencer, applicants must meet the following conditions:

1. Valid UAE Media or Influencer License
   • Issued by a UAE free zone or mainland authority
   • Must be approved by the National Media Council (NMC), now under the UAE Media Council
2. Content Creation as a Profession
   • Demonstrated consistency and professionalism in content output
   • Public social media accounts with an established audience
3. Income Threshold
   • Recommended minimum income of AED 360,000/year (or AED 30,000/month) from content-related activities
4. Clean Public Profile
   • Content must align with UAE media laws (no political, religious, or prohibited material)
5. Recommendation Letter
   • Issued by either Dubai Culture via Creators HQ or by the UAE Media Council (federal route)

Step 1: Obtain a UAE Influencer License

Before applying for a Golden Visa, influencers must hold a valid influencer/media license. This includes two components:

• Business or Freelance License (from a UAE free zone or DED)
• E-Media Permit (issued by the UAE Media Council/NMC)

Popular licensing jurisdictions include:

• Dubai: Dubai Media City, DET, Meydan Free Zone
• Sharjah: SHAMS Free Zone
• Fujairah: Creative City Free Zone
• Abu Dhabi: twofour54 or ADDED

Note: All licenses must be officially approved by the UAE Media Council. Operating without these licenses may lead to fines.

Step 2: Secure an Endorsement Letter

This is a mandatory requirement for the Golden Visa.

Two Endorsement Pathways:

• Dubai-Based Creators: Register with Creators HQ, a Dubai Culture initiative. Submit your influencer license, content portfolio, and media kits. If approved, Dubai Culture will issue a formal endorsement letter.
• Other Emirates: Apply through the UAE Media Council (formerly NMC). Submit a portfolio, proof of income, professional resume, and license. Endorsements are issued based on merit, contributions, and media presence.

Step 3: Apply for the Golden Visa

Once endorsed, applicants must apply through:

• GDRFA Dubai (for Dubai-based applicants)
• Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) (for all other Emirates)

Influencer Golden Visa: Required Documents

• Passport copy
• Emirates ID (if already a resident)
• Endorsement letter
• Influencer/media license
• Proof of income (bank statements, contracts)
• Certificate of good conduct
• Medical fitness report

Processing Time: 30–45 working days

Important Considerations

• The influencer license and e-media permit must be valid and renewed yearly
• Content must comply with UAE media laws
• Applications may be rejected if the endorsement is not secured
• Fees for licensing, endorsements, and visa processing vary by jurisdiction

The UAE is actively positioning itself as a global hub for creators. With clear steps and government-endorsed pathways like Creators HQ and the UAE Media Council, influencers now have a structured route to long-term residency. By meeting the licensing and endorsement criteria, creators can secure a stable and supportive environment to grow their digital brand in the UAE.

Partner with EZONE to Simplify Your UAE Golden Visa Journey

At EZONE, we specialize in helping influencers and content creators navigate the UAE licensing and Golden Visa process. From selecting the right free zone to securing your e-media permit and endorsement, our team ensures your application is complete and compliant from start to finish.

Let us help you:

• Choose the ideal influencer license
• Coordinate with Creators HQ or the UAE Media Council
• Prepare documentation for endorsement and visa
• Handle your Golden Visa processing and follow-ups