We’ve always heard that Dubai is the best place for businesses and entrepreneurs. However, the city is now making waves on other fronts as well. Dubai is working hard to attract top influencers, content creators, and freelancers.
In an era where influencer marketing, podcasting, and content creation are at their peak, the dream city is making space for everything that not only boosts its economy but also presents it as one of the world's leading business cities.
The UAE government announced that influencers and content creators would be included under the Golden Visa a few months ago. In our previous blog, we provided a detailed discussion of the Golden Visa. Now, it’s time to talk about the Dubai influencer license that allows influencers from every part of the world to come, live, and earn.
Due to its luxurious brands, cutting-edge infrastructure, and lively culture, the United Arab Emirates, and especially Dubai, is a popular destination for influencers. Obtaining an influencer license is essential for generating a commercial income from your videos or content. The entire process of obtaining the influencer license will be detailed in the following guide.
Dubai Influencer License
An influencer license in Dubai allows individuals and businesses to promote and market brand content on social media. The UAE authority has taken this step amid the strong growth of digital marketing worldwide. The National Media Council issues an influencer license to the local regulatory body in some cases. This license is mandatory for individuals who earn a living by promoting clients' services. Operating this without the permit can lead to penalties.
What's the Requirement of the Dubai Influencer License
Like other businesses, an influencer license is also required here. A license is proof for any individual or organisation to run or provide services legally. The other requirement of the permit is to regulate paid online content to ensure compliance with local regulations.
Those with at least 2,000 followers in the UAE must adhere to the laws, as they are required to mention sponsorship-type advertisements in their posts, including stories on Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, and TikTok. Also, they are required to have a duly licensed corporate structure.
What happens if the license turns invalid? Apart from possibly being prohibited from the site or platform you were selling on, you might incur a fine of up to AED 5,000. Furthermore, in the case of foreigners, it could result in expulsion.
Influencer License Categories in Dubai
There are mainly three types of influencer licenses in Dubai.
- Individual License: This license is availed by the independent influencers or content creators who want to work independently for the brands in exchange for payments.
- Agency License: This is for the agencies or firms that handle multiple influencers' accounts and manage campaigns and client relationships on the creators' behalf.
- Partnership License: For influencers who are part of a joint channel or brand, or who co-own content platforms.
Steps to Avail Influencer License in Dubai
If you're going to apply for an influencer license in Dubai, these are a few steps you must follow.
- Work Structure: First and foremost, you need to decide on your structure, whether you want to work independently or set up an agency.
- Trade Name Registration: A Trade name is a must-have step to be finalised before proceeding. The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism is responsible for the registration.
- Apply for a Trade License: Choose licenses according to your company background and apply for them online or by visiting the respective authority.
- Apply for NMC E-Media License: Influencers must register with the UAE's National Media Council via the official portal. This license covers your activities as a content creator.
- License Payment: The license fee is dependent on the type of license you're applying for.
- Individual License Fee- AED 15,000 per year, approximately.
- Agency License Fee- AED 20,000 to 30,000 per year, approximately.
Conclusion
In the digital media age, content creation is one of the most attractive ways to gain popularity and earn money. To launch your career as an influencer, it is crucial to comply with all applicable rules and regulations. And sometimes, it becomes complex to handle everything on your own. This is where you must partner with business solution providers to bring your vision to life. Markai Corporate Services guides you through every necessary step, including obtaining the influencer license in Dubai.
