Dubai has created ‘world first' influencer training programme – here's why
Looking to live the lifestyle of a social media influencer? The 'world's first dedicated training programme' for travel content creators is launching in Dubai.
Beautiful Destinations, a travel content platform, seeks to 'build the careers' of a handful of influencers in collaboration with the Dubai Department of Economy & Tourism (Visit Dubai).
The 'Beautiful Destinations Academy' has invited social media users to share their 'visual stories' for a chance to be a part of its inaugural three-month course this May.
According to the brand, 76 per cent of travel bookings are now inspired by what holidaymakers see on social media, with ' content creator ' consistently ranking as a dream job for Gen Z.
Winter sun, skyscrapers and sand dunes have long established Dubai as an influencer hotspot.
The four selected 'creators in residence' will spend 12 weeks training in Dubai, with scheduled workshops, field shoots, and mentorship sessions to 'develop their craft in a real-world setting'.
A promotional video by Beautiful Destinations called the programme 'an elite training environment where we invest in you to support Dubai's unparalleled vision for the future of tourism'.
On the curriculum: photography and cinematography, editing and colour grading, sound effects, AI tools, industry regulations and lessons in professional development as a travel content creator.
The academy includes all expenses and luxury accommodation, a 'generous' salary and 'unprecedented access to locations and experiences' in Dubai.
Recruits will be coached by creative and business experts and have their content shared on Beautiful Destinations' social media platforms.
The travel platform said that work will involve outdoor activities, remote filming and long hours to capture content at sunrise and sunset.
After the course, travel content creators will receive a Certificate of Participation from the Dubai College of Tourism.
Applicants must upload a 60-second video on 'travel culture or adventure' on Instagram, tag @BeautifulDestinations @VisitDubai #BDacademy and complete an online form before 24 April to be considered for the first cohort of content creators.
Jeremy Jauncey, CEO and founder of Beautiful Destinations, said: 'I want to share what I've learned with the next generation and give others the chance to experience the coolest career in the world. And there's no better city than Dubai - which has inspired Beautiful Destinations' creators since our earliest days - to do this in. You don't need to be an expert to apply – we're looking for raw, hidden talent.'
He added: 'We want to equip young people with the skills to build a solid future in travel content creation, to take advantage of this fast-growing sector. You don't need expensive equipment or formal training – just a desire to turn your social media hobby into a dream career.'
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