How to Get an influencer license in Dubai UAE
According to Statista, the average person spends around 144 minutes daily scrolling through their social media feeds. More than half the world—amounting to 3.96 billion people—is actively using social media. These figures are staggering, and for good reason. What began as a tool for casual interaction has now transformed into one of the most powerful communication and marketing tools of the 21st century. It is safe to say that social media shows no signs of slowing down. If you’re under the age of 29, chances are you use at least one social media platform daily.
While most individuals use social media to connect with friends and family, businesses and corporations have leveraged their immense potential. Entrepreneurs, for instance, are increasingly setting up new businesses in Dubai through digital marketing agencies and social media management companies. This shift is largely due to how seamless and effortless the business setup process in Dubai has become. Statistics further reveal that revenue generated from social media marketing is expected to exceed $50 billion by 2021.
One notable branch of this evolution is Influencer Marketing, which has become an integral part of social media marketing. In this article, we’ll guide you through the importance of social media marketing for businesses and provide a detailed roadmap on how to obtain the necessary licenses for social media marketing in the UAE
Why You Need an Influencer License in the UAE
As social media continues to expand, so does the regulatory framework surrounding it. The UAE National Media Council (NMC) recently introduced measures to professionalize the social media landscape by requiring influencers to adhere to certain guidelines.
Key Legislation
To legally market on social media in the UAE, any influencer engaging in paid advertising must obtain both a Trade License and a UAE Influencer License.
If you’re simply giving an unpaid shoutout to a friend or fellow content creator, you won’t need a permit. However, any form of paid advertising mandates that you secure the necessary licenses.
While obtaining these permits might seem daunting, the process can be simplified with the right guidance. Companies like Cross Link International can assist you in acquiring a Media License for as little as AED 5,750 (exclusive of visa and other provisions). However, if you’d like to apply for a Social Media Influencer License on your own, here’s how to proceed.
Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining an Influencer License
1. Obtain a Trade License
The first requirement is securing a Trade License. This is mandatory to become a licensed influencer in the UAE. You can choose between applying in one of the UAE’s many Free Zones or directly with the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED).
Free Zones are a popular choice because they are more cost-effective. One highly recommended option is Fujairah Creative City, which offers numerous benefits like tax exemptions, zero currency restrictions, and ongoing business support.
Alternatively, if you have a freelance permit, you can still apply for an Influencer License. Freelance permits are typically more affordable than full Trade Licenses and are available from various UAE Free Zones.
If you decide to go the Trade License route, the next step involves choosing a name for your company. Your business name must comply with UAE naming conventions. For expert advice, consult a Dubai business setup consultant who can help you pick a name that aligns with the rules.
Tips for Naming Your Company
- Avoid using names of well-known corporations.
- Steer clear of language that could be considered offensive.
- Refrain from using abbreviations when naming a company after yourself.
For example, choose “David Porter Consulting” instead of “D. Porter Consulting.”
If you’re applying as a freelancer, you can skip this step since your name will automatically serve as your business name.
2. Apply for a Visa
To obtain a Social Media Influencer License, you need to have a UAE Residency Visa and an Emirates ID.
While the visa application process might appear straightforward, it’s advisable to seek assistance from a business setup consultant to ensure accuracy.
If you hold a UAE Trade License, you can also sponsor family members for visas. However, the number of visas you can sponsor depends on factors like your earnings, business structure, and company size.
3. Apply for a Social Media Influencer License
Finally, apply for your Influencer License through the National Media Council (NMC). You can either complete the process via the official NMC website or hire a business setup consultant to handle everything for you, including your Trade License, Visa, Emirates ID, and Influencer License.
Eligibility Criteria
Before applying, ensure you meet the following prerequisites:
- Not currently a member of the NMC.
- A UAE resident or GCC citizen.
- Over 25 years of age.
- Hold a positive reputation.
Additionally, you’ll need the following documents:
- A copy of your Trade License.
- A copy of your Emirates ID.
- A registered tenancy contract or title deed.
Since the Social Media Influencer License is an e-license, the process typically takes no more than 15 minutes to complete.
Ready to Begin?
With the UAE’s economy growing steadily, there has never been a better time to capitalize on the power of social media. However, establishing your business as a social media influencer requires careful planning and expertise.
If you’re unsure about managing all the requirements on your own, consider reaching out to a trusted business setup consultant like Cross Link International. From securing licenses to streamlining your visa applications, their team ensures a hassle-free experience.
With service charges as low as AED 1, Cross Link International is committed to helping you achieve your goals. Call us today at +971 4 321 6631 / +971 55 744 6445 or fill out our online form for a callback.
