Digital transformation has profoundly changed the world for the better. Since the emergence of the internet, new job opportunities have opened up sectors that previously didn’t exist. One of the most popular jobs or businesses in this digital age is that of a Social Media Influencer. Social media has transformed the traditional 9-to-5 workday and introduced social media enthusiasts to the opportunity to grow at their own pace and in their own space.
In the UAE, social media influencers are also contributing to the GDP. This is the core reason why the UAE government introduced the social media influencer license. Creators, podcasters, and other social media influencers are trying to make a sustainable presence in the UAE with the Social Media Influencer License.
The valuation of the United Arab Emirates influencer economy was approximately $69.35 billion by the end of 2024. By 2030, it is predicted to rise to $97 million, reflecting an annual growth rate of about 6.9%.
Over the same period, the use of social media in the United Arab Emirates is expected to remain as high as ever. TikTok will continue to reach more than 11.3 million users. Moreover, it is predicted that 98% of internet users will be social media users, and they will log in for an average of 2.5 hours daily.
Let’s read more about the social media influencer license, what it is, how it works, and so on in this blog.
Social Media Influencer License in Abu Dhabi
A social media influencer license in Abu Dhabi is basically a legal document, just like other business licenses, which allows you to work as a social media influencer legally. This license becomes important if you're generating income through your content or promotions. Issued by the National Media Council, the influencer license is required for individuals or agencies operating within the social media influencer ecosystem.
Having a social media influencer license not only protects them from penalties but also increases their reputation with companies by demonstrating that they are lawful and abide by local laws.
Who Requires an Influencer License in Abu Dhabi?
- Earning Income Through Influencer Activities
Receiving payment, either monetarily or in promotion for social media marketing, advertising, products, services, events, or companies on platforms such as Instagram, YouTube, and Meta. In this scenario, you are required to acquire the relevant licenses. This also applies to sponsored posts, paid partnerships, and barter deals.
- Individuals and Corporate Entities
An individual influencer must hold a license issued by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED). A separate corporate permit is also required for influencer groups or companies, such as collectives, agencies, or brand management firms.
- Influencer-Engaging Companies
Companies and agencies that utilise the services of influencers are required to obtain all necessary and current ADDED licenses for both the influencer and the company.
One wouldn’t need an influencer license if they aren’t earning income through brand promotions and collaborations, and people won’t be required to have a permit if they earn solely through YouTube or Meta ads, without evolving into paid partnerships.
Types of Influencer License in Abu Dhabi
- Individual Influencer License
- Group Influencer License
- Agency License
- Trade License+ Influencer Permit (For businesses)
- Exempted License
Required Documents For Social Media Influencer License in the UAE
To get the social media influencer license, one should comply with certain document requirements, such as;
- Copy of a valid passport
- Copy of UAE residence visa
- Emirates ID (or Unified Number)
- Two recent passport-sized colour photographs with a white background
- Proof of address (e.g., a utility bill)
Process For Obtaining Social Media Influencer License
As with other license-obtaining processes, the procedure for obtaining a social media influencer license is similar.
Step 1- Select the right jurisdiction
Step 2- Identify the category
Step 3- Prepare required documents
Step 4- Register with the National Media Council
Step 5- Pay the mandatory license fee
Step 6- Wait for the approval
Step 7- Get your license
Step 8- Keep updating the license promptly.
Whether you’re an agency owner, part of a content collective, or a solo creator, having the appropriate licenses ensures that you can maximise your earnings without breaching any rules.
Markai Corporate Services supports every budding influencer, as well as talent agencies, in obtaining the social media influencer license to explore the thriving opportunities in Abu Dhabi's digital business landscape.
