Creating content in the UAE can be more than a hobby. The moment you start earning from posts, reels, videos, or brand campaigns, you are doing commercial work. And like any other business activity, it needs the right approvals. Therefore, the government has introduced the influencer permit to regulate the influencers’ activities. With an influencer license UAE you can build trust because brands take you more seriously. And also, you reduce the risk of fines or takedowns.
If you are an influencer and looking for the influencer license UAE requirements, this blog is for you. Momentum will assist you with business setup Dubai along with media/advertising permits.
Why the UAE Regulates Influencer Work
The UAE has a large and active digital market. The recent Dubai’s 1 Billion Followers Summit shows how the UAE is promoting content creation as a full-time career. Creators HQ in Dubai, the first dedicated creators’ hub in the UAE and the Middle East has brought together 2,415+ creators from 147 countries, with a combined audience reach of over 2.45 billion followers.
With that comes a need to control misleading ads, protect consumers, and keep content aligned with local standards. The newer framework gives authorities powers to monitor advertising content, apply fines, and require licensing for promotional activity.
| Category (Timeframe) | Metric | Figure |
|---|---|---|
| Market Growth (2024–2030) | Expected annual growth rate (CAGR) | 12.6% |
| Market Size (2023) | Revenue generated | USD 735.0M |
| Market Size (2030) | Projected revenue | USD 1,678.4M |
| Market Segmentation (2023) | Largest revenue component | Tools |
| Market Segmentation (2024–2030) | Fastest-growing component | Services |
Do You Need a License (or permits) for Influencer Work?
You likely need approvals if you do any of the following:
- Get paid for sponsored posts, brand deals, or collaborations
- Earn through affiliate links, discount codes, or product placement
- Offer paid content creation, UGC, or social media services
- Run promotions on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Snapchat, blogs, or websites
Even if a promotion is not paid, the current rules can still apply when the content is promotional in nature.
You may not need licensing if you post purely for personal reasons and you are not doing promotional/advertising activity. If you work under an agency, you should still check what is covered under their setup, and what must be under your own name.
Updates for Influencers in 2026
Advertising Permit Implementation
From February 1, 2026, individuals posting promotional content in the UAE must have an Advertiser Permit issued under the UAE Media Council’s system.
Content Standards are Stricter
Authorities reference mandatory content standards for media and advertising content, and fines can range widely depending on the violation.
Social Content Fund
The AED 5 million Social Content Fund is a support program launched by Creators HQ (Dubai) in partnership with Alfan to help creators produce high-quality social content, especially around family and community themes.
It was announced during the 1 Billion Followers Summit in Dubai. The fund is not only about cash support. It also offers creator training, access to production studios and equipment, monetisation tools, plus help with brand opportunities and platform support. It even includes relocation support for selected creators who want to move to the UAE.
Influencer License UAE Requirements
Exact document lists can vary by free zone or mainland authority, but most applicants should be ready with:
- Passport copy
- UAE visa copy (if you have one) and Emirates ID (if applicable)
- A business activity that matches what you do (content creation/marketing/advertising, etc.)
- Links to active social media accounts / portfolio
- Basic details of what content you publish and how you monetize
- If you are employed in the UAE, you may need an NOC (depends on your situation and where you apply)
Influencer License UAE Application Process
Step 1: Decide Where You Will Set Up
If you are an individual creator, you can opt for a free zone because setup is convenient. Mainland is good jurisdiction for influencer license in Dubai if your work needs broader local contracting options. At Momentum, we can help you understand the differences between Dubai mainland and Dubai free zones as they have different packages.
Step 2: Get Your Business License First
Single creators choose a freelance-style setup, while agencies or teams may choose a company setup. In either case, we will support you with licensing, permits and approvals.
Step 3: Apply for Your Advertiser Permit
By getting Advertiser Permit, you will be eligible to publish advertising or promotional content online. The law framework covers advertising/media content on social media, whether it is paid or unpaid.
Step 4: Arrange Your Visa
If you do not already have UAE residency, your setup option may include a visa package depending on the authority and the type of license you choose. We also provide expert visa solutions for you, your family and your staff.
Step 5: Stay Compliant While You Post
You must not assume that getting approvals is the final thing and you are free to do anything. That’s not true! You must make sure that your content follows the standards, specifically for ads, sponsorships, and sensitive topics.
Influencer License UAE Cost
The cost of your license can be divided in two categories mainly:
- Business license cost, and
- Advertising/media permit cost
For the UAE Media Council permit for individuals, the fee is AED 1,000 for issuance and between AED 5,000-15,000 for trade license or freelancer license.
The influencer license UAE renewal cost for individual permit is also AED 1,000, with the natural-person exemption for the first three years from issuance. So, after the free period ends, you should plan renewal costs into your yearly budget.
If you are a visiting creator, the fees for a visitor permit is AED 500 for a three-month term.
Influencer License UAE Rules You Should Take Seriously
- Be honest in promotions. No fake claims or misleading results.
- Avoid promoting restricted or illegal products and services.
- Keep content respectful to religion, culture, and public order.
- Use disclosure for ads and paid partnerships.
Get Your Influencer License and Advertiser Permit with Momentum
If you plan to earn from social media in the UAE, you need the right setup with a trusted consultant. Momentum helps you get your business license and Advertiser Permit smoothly. We guide you on the best option for your work, prepare your documents, submit the applications, and support you until everything is approved.
Start Strong, Grow Fast with Momentum!
