Latest news with #CreatorsHQ
Gulf Today
11 hours ago
- Business
- Gulf Today
UAE plans 3-year fee exemption for content creators, age rating system for media content
The UAE Media Council launched a comprehensive system to regulate, empower, and stimulate growth in the media sector. This initiative builds upon the transformative journey initiated with the Council's establishment in February 2023 and the subsequent issuance of the Media Regulation Law and its Executive Regulation. The announcement was made during a press conference, held on Thursday at Creators HQ in Emirates Towers, Dubai, in the presence of Mohammed Saeed Al Shehhi, Secretary-General of the UAE Media Council, and Maitha Al Suwaidi, CEO of Strategy and Media Policies Sector at the UAE Media Council. Mohammed Saeed Al Shehhi emphasised the Council's ongoing commitment to launching a new media system that embodies the UAE leadership's vision for a modern and integrated media landscape. This system aims to drive a transformative shift in the development of the UAE's media sector, ensuring its continued regional and global leadership, as envisioned by the UAE's leadership. Al Shehhi stated, "The new system transforms the way the media sector is regulated and developed, as it combines updated legislation, comprehensive media services, and policies covering various sectors to enhance efficiency and sustainable growth.' Al Shehhi highlighted the Media Regulation Law and its Executive Regulation as a milestone for a new era of competitiveness and leadership for the UAE media sector. As the first media law issued in over 40 years, it establishes a solid foundation for a future-proof media landscape, addressing advancements in digital media, artificial intelligence, gaming, on-demand broadcasting, and other evolving fields. He added, "This system was developed over two years, through close collaboration with federal and local entities, media organisations, content creators, and international experts, reflecting a belief in partnership-based legislation grounded in practical application. This approach ensures responsiveness to change, empowers talent, fosters innovation, and attracts investment.' Furthermore, Al Shehhi noted that the new media system goes beyond establishing frameworks, focusing on content as the core of the industry. "We ensured that it incorporates clear standards for responsible, balanced content that respects values and identity while promoting creativity and impact," he said, emphasising the importance of creative individuals as the foundation of effective media. Al Shehhi concluded, "The goal is to empower the media sector to become a driving force for development and a vital economic engine contributing to the national GDP and enhancing the UAE's regional and global competitiveness. The new system aims to unlock potential, stimulate investment, and empower content creators through a flexible environment, streamlined procedures, incentivising exemptions, and strategic partnerships at both local and international levels." Maitha Al Suwaidi stated that the UAE Media Council is spearheading a transformation of the national media landscape, achieved through a comprehensive legislative roadmap designed to modernise the sector's regulatory framework and create a flexible, contemporary environment. She noted that this environment will both keep pace with global media trends and foster a more impactful and sustainable media industry. Al Suwaidi explained that this roadmap goes beyond traditional legal frameworks, as it includes not only the Media Regulation Law and its Executive Regulation but also a series of policies and regulatory decisions reflecting a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities presented by new media, with the aim of enhancing media practices to ensure they align with the UAE's core values. A key element of this system is a new resolution regulating social media advertising by individuals. This measure aims to build public trust, protect audiences, and improve the quality of online media content. "It also offers concrete support to content creators through a three-year exemption from permit fees," she stated. Furthermore, Al Suwaidi stated that the Council is implementing a comprehensive age rating system for media content to safeguard children and adolescents from inappropriate material, particularly crucial given the rise in digital content consumption. She also noted a new policy for licensing digital news platforms is also being developed, to establish clear professional and regulatory guidelines to enhance credibility, ensure adherence to journalistic standards, and promote responsible practices within a balanced legal framework. Regarding regulations, Al Suwaidi highlighted the adoption of the Cabinet's resolution on media service fees and the resolution on violations and administrative penalties, representing a significant step towards a unified, flexible, and transparent media services system. This user-friendly system aligns with the UAE government's vision for proactive and integrated digital services, streamlining processes for media organisations and content creators within a growth-oriented regulatory environment. She emphasised that the local content empowerment policy is central to this system, prioritising Emirati talent and creative projects within the national media strategy, with fee exemptions for several media services to support local producers, writers, and creatives, and encourage content that reflects national identity and elevates the quality of the media message. In conclusion, Al Suwaidi stated that this new legislative system represents a pivotal moment in the development of a modern Emirati media landscape founded on transparency, professionalism, and quality. It provides media organisations and content creators with a robust regulatory structure that enhances their production capabilities and unlocks opportunities for growth and global competitiveness. WAM
Hi Dubai
2 days ago
- Business
- Hi Dubai
UAE Media Council Launches New System to Modernise and Grow Media Sector
The UAE Media Council has unveiled a sweeping new system to regulate, empower, and accelerate the growth of the country's media sector, marking a major step in modernising the regulatory framework and positioning the UAE as a global media leader. Announced at a press conference held today at Creators HQ in Emirates Towers, Dubai, the initiative builds on the momentum of the Council's formation in February 2023 and the introduction of the landmark Media Regulation Law—the first in over four decades. Mohammed Saeed Al Shehhi, Secretary-General of the UAE Media Council, described the system as a transformative shift that integrates updated legislation, comprehensive media services, and sector-specific policies. 'It's a future-proof approach developed in collaboration with government bodies, media organisations, and international experts to foster innovation, attract investment, and empower talent,' he said. Al Shehhi highlighted that the framework is designed to strengthen the UAE's media competitiveness regionally and globally. Key elements include content standards that uphold national values, strategic incentives for content creators, and streamlined procedures to stimulate sustainable sector growth. Maitha Al Suwaidi, CEO of Strategy and Media Policies at the Council, emphasised the system's focus on creating a flexible and modern media environment. Among the new measures is a regulation targeting social media advertising, offering content creators a three-year exemption from permit fees and introducing quality controls to build public trust. Additional initiatives include a digital content age-rating system, licensing frameworks for online news platforms, and fee exemptions to support Emirati creatives. Al Suwaidi described the launch as a pivotal moment in shaping a professional, transparent, and impactful media ecosystem aligned with the UAE's national vision. News Source: Emirates News Agency
Hi Dubai
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Hi Dubai
Meta Unveils Edits App to Boost Creator Content Across the Region
Meta has launched Edits, a new video editing app aimed at empowering digital creators, during its first regional event in partnership with Creators HQ in the UAE. Held at Creators HQ — the Middle East's first dedicated content creator hub — the event introduced Edits through a workshop titled Mastering the Edit , offering hands-on experience with the app's advanced features. Available for free on iOS and Android, Edits provides creators with a powerful all-in-one toolkit, streamlining everything from production to publishing. Features include green screen background replacement, auto-generated multilingual subtitles, audio enhancement, and watermark-free high-resolution exports. The app supports videos up to 10 minutes and integrates seamlessly with platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube Shorts. This marks the first major initiative following Meta's strategic partnership with Creators HQ, announced at the 1 Billion Followers Summit in Dubai earlier this year. Moon Baz, Director of Global Partnerships at Meta, called the collaboration a 'milestone in supporting the growth of the content creation industry across the region.' He added that the app is designed to help creators produce 'meaningful, innovative content' that contributes positively to communities. Creators HQ Managing Director Dr. Mohammad AlGhfeli said the partnership will advance the digital media landscape and help creators broaden their reach. 'This collaboration supports our mission to empower creators with tools that inspire creativity and drive social impact,' he said. Meta executives Samer Jamal and Bahjat Hindi led a live demonstration, showcasing how Edits can elevate storytelling through short-form video. Meta selected Creators HQ as the launch venue, recognising its growing influence as a regional and global hub for digital creators. News Source: Emirates News Agency
Hi Dubai
15-05-2025
- Business
- Hi Dubai
UAE Expands 10-Year Residency to New Talent Categories Across Key Sectors
The UAE continues to solidify its status as a global magnet for top talent by expanding its 10-year Golden Visa to include a broader range of professionals. From educators and nurses to yacht owners and gaming experts, the initiative is opening new doors for individuals across diverse fields to live, work, and thrive in the country without the need for sponsorship. Here are the latest categories added to the Golden Visa programme: 1. Teachers and Educators In 2024, Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah introduced long-term residency for outstanding educators. Dubai made the announcement on World Teacher's Day, granting Golden Visas to private school teachers based on their impact on student development and education quality. Ras Al Khaimah soon followed, extending the visa to school leaders and teachers with at least three years of experience in the emirate, an advanced degree, and measurable contributions to school performance. 2. Nurses On International Nurses Day, May 12, Dubai honoured long-serving healthcare professionals by granting Golden Visas to nurses who have worked with Dubai Health for over 15 years. The initiative recognises the critical role nurses play in supporting community health and well-being. 3. Luxury Yacht Owners and Maritime Executives Abu Dhabi launched the 'Golden Quay' initiative in late 2024, targeting high-net-worth individuals in the maritime sector. Eligible yacht owners—whose vessels are 40 metres or longer—as well as key industry executives, can now obtain 10-year visas. The programme also covers immediate family members, aiming to attract further investment into the emirate's growing yachting industry. 4. Gaming Professionals and eSports Talent Dubai's push to become a regional gaming hub took a major leap forward in 2024 when it began offering Golden Visas to gaming professionals. Applicants must be at least 25 years old and demonstrate experience in roles such as eSports players, game developers, or content creators. The visa falls under the culture and arts category, encouraging global talent to set roots in the emirate. 5. Religious Scholars and Imams In a move to honour long-serving religious figures, Dubai extended Golden Visas in April 2024 to imams, preachers, muezzins, muftis, and researchers who have served the emirate for 20 years or more. The initiative, announced ahead of Eid Al Fitr, underscores the UAE's commitment to preserving religious and cultural values. 6. Content Creators and Influencers In early 2025, Dubai launched a new initiative through Creators HQ, offering Golden Visas to digital content creators, podcasters, influencers, and visual artists. The programme also invites advertising firms, media production houses, and fashion and lifestyle brands, creating a robust ecosystem for creative industries to flourish in the UAE. 7. Environmentalists – Blue Visa While technically a different category, the Blue Visa mirrors the Golden Visa's benefits, offering 10-year residency to individuals who've made exceptional contributions to environmental sustainability. This includes members of NGOs, international organisations, scientists, award-winning researchers, and globally recognised environmental activists working to protect ecosystems and promote sustainable living. The expansion of the UAE's long-term residency programme reflects a strategic push to diversify the nation's talent base and foster innovation across key sectors. By removing traditional barriers like employer sponsorship and frequent visa renewals, the initiative allows outstanding individuals to focus on meaningful work while calling the UAE home. News Source: Khaleej Times
Sharjah 24
14-05-2025
- Business
- Sharjah 24
Abdulla Al Hamed calls on young media leaders to uphold ethics
The initiative, organised by the Arab Youth Centre in collaboration with regional and international media institutions, aims to train a select group of promising young Arab media talents. The meeting, which took place at the Creators HQ in Emirates Towers, Dubai, reflected Al Hamed's commitment to fostering dialogue with the next generation of media professionals, listening to their aspirations, and understanding their perspectives on the future of media. He also emphasised the importance of empowering young talent to produce media content that reflects Arab values, embraces digital transformation, and elevates youth voices regionally and globally. During the meeting, Al Hamed highlighted key national and global media trends and practices, noting the sweeping changes taking place in the sector due to the digital revolution. He stressed that media represents a powerful form of soft power that helps build national reputation and enhances global presence. He underlined the vital role awaiting young Arab media professionals in shaping a more positive future, stating that when used with awareness and creativity, media becomes a tool capable of drawing a better path forward for societies. Al Hamed affirmed that the Young Arab Media Leaders Programme reflects the UAE's approach to enhancing cooperation with Arab countries in the media field. He explained that the UAE's investment in young Arab media talent stems from a firm belief that the future of media in the region depends on its ability to develop a new generation of media professionals equipped with the knowledge and skills to navigate modern challenges. He urged participants to uphold professional ethics and remain loyal to the noble mission of media, stressing that words carry responsibility and that a true journalist not only reports events but also plays a role in shaping public awareness and strengthening their country's global reputation. During the session, Al Hamed listened to participants' views on developing the Arab media landscape, as they shared ideas on how to adapt to digital transformation, enhance credibility and transparency, and address the challenges facing young media professionals. They also discussed the importance of fostering a supportive environment that hones their skills and contributes to building an impactful media sector that reflects the ambitions of Arab nations and future generations. The seventh edition of the Young Arab Media Leaders Programme focuses on the societal role of media, highlighting the importance of leveraging media tools to support social and humanitarian initiatives, tell stories that inspire hope and create impact, and promote youth-led efforts in community service.
