Dubai’s digital world is growing rapidly. It has now become a popular destination for influencers and businesses.

According to a report by Global Media Insights, there were 10.73 million social media users in the UAE in 2023. That’s 99% of the country’s population. 3 out of every 4 people follow social media influencers and trust them for entertainment and shopping ideas.

Experts say the influencer market in the Middle East could touch $1.3 billion by the end of 2023. Another report shows that influencers with 10,000 followers, who post one paid ad per day, can earn as much as a mid-level marketing job. This presents a huge opportunity for content creators and influencers in Dubai.

But every influencer who makes money through paid posts or brand deals must obtain an influencer license in Dubai. This license is essential if they make money through advertising, product reviews, or paid content.

This post will explain what an influencer license is, why it is necessary, and how you can get it.

Understanding The UAE Influencer License

The Media Regulatory Office under the Ministry of Culture and Youth issues this license. It is required if you are making money from your content, such as placing advertisements, doing paid reviews, or featuring products in your posts.

However, this rule doesn’t apply to bloggers, people who use social media to promote their own business, or those who run personal websites. It also doesn’t include people who review products for free and don’t get any money or gifts from the company.

The license is initially valid for one year, and then you have to renew it every year. You can choose from these license types:

Category 1 (Individual): This option is for influencers who work alone and do not have a team.

Category 2 (Agency): To get this, you must work with a government-approved agency for influencers. When you join such an agency, they follow licensing rules. But you may have less control over what you post.

Category 3 (Partnership): Good for small teams of influencers starting a business together. You will need a trade license and register a company. It usually costs less than an individual license.

If you work as an influencer without this license, you can be fined at least AED 5,000 and have your account suspended. In the UAE, this license is important if you want to work legally and avoid problems.

If you are an influencer and also run an online store, you will also need to get an e-commerce license.

What Are The UAE Rules For Influencers?

To govern the influencer sector, the UAE government enacted regulations in 2018. The regulations state that anyone who creates paid advertisements on social media must obtain an influencer license from the Media Regulatory Office in Dubai.

These regulations apply to people on social media who receive money or gifts for their work. People who write on their own sites or occasionally receive items for review do not need a social media influencer license in the UAE.

To function properly as a social media influencer in the UAE and follow with the law, it is important to follow these rules:

• Follow the rules about privacy, bad language and taking photos

• Be clear if you are posting paid advertisements on social media

• Don’t say anything that disrespects religion

• Don’t promote or show alcohol in your posts

• Don’t share posts that insult leaders or disturb public peace

• Don’t use words or posts that go against Islam, show bad behavior or harm children

Step-By-Step Process to Get Influencer License in Dubai

Step 1 - Choose Your Jurisdiction

Decide whether you want a free zone license (such as from Dubai Media City, Dubai Internet City, or another creative-focused zone) or a mainland license from Dubai’s Department of Economic Development (DED). Free zones give you full ownership of your business but may limit your ability to operate directly in the local market. Mainland licenses allow full access to the UAE but require a local partner or agent.

Step 2 - Choose The Right Activity Code

Choose an activity code that fits influencers, often found under “Social Media Management” or “Marketing, Advertising, and Media Services.” Choosing the correct code is important to follow the rules and be able to get a visa.But this rule does not apply to bloggers, people who promote their business on social media, or people who have personal websites. It also does not cover people who review products for free and do not pay or receive anything from the company. 

Step 3 - Reserve a Business Name

Send your business name selection to the DED or your chosen free zone. The name should follow UAE regulations, don't use offensive words, names of Allah or the royal family, and make sure it’s not already taken by another company.

Step 4 - Gather Your Documents

You will typically need these documents -

• Recent passport-sized photo

• Passport copy and Emirates ID (if you have one)

• Emirates ID application form (for visa)

• Portfolio or media kit of your content

• Tenancy agreement (Ejari) or smart desk lease (free zone)

• Report showing social media statistics (followers, engagement)

Step 5 - Apply And Pay The Fee

Upload your documents and pay the license fee via the DED website or free zone portal. Costs vary by location - mainland fees typically range from AED 10,000 to AED 15,000 per year, while free zones range from AED 7,000 to AED 12,000.

Step 6 - Get Initial Approval

Once they review your paperwork, you will receive an approval certificate. Along with this, you can open a bank account, process your visa, and arrange for a local sponsor if needed.

Step 7 - Finalize Visa And License

After getting the first approvals, complete the labor contract, Emirates ID process, and medical test. Usually, you will get your stamped Dubai Influencer License and Visa within 2 to 3 weeks.

Continue Reading: How to Get a General Trading License in Dubai, UAE in 2025

Documents Required for Obtaining an Influencer License in the UAE

To apply for an influencer license in the UAE, you must collect certain documents, such as:

For Individuals:

• Copy of valid passport

• Copy of Emirates ID (if available)

• Copy of UAE residency visa

• Links or proof of active social media profiles

• No-Objection Certificate (NOC) if required,

• Completed NMC/MRO application form

For Agencies (Company License):

• Valid business trade license

• Proof of agency-related work

• List of influencers under management

• Completed NMC/MRO application form

• Official company registration papers

• Office tenancy agreement (if required)

Influencer License Cost in Dubai

The cost of an influencer license in Dubai is around AED 15,000. The cost of an influencer license in Sharjah is around AED 5,700. This influencer license in Dubai must be renewed every year. This is just the fee for the license, but other costs may also apply, such as:

Government Fees: This includes the fee for applying for a permit and an influencer license.

Legal Fees: If you seek the help of a legal expert, you may need to pay legal service fees.

Agency Fees: Influencer agencies charge different fees depending on the service and experience.

The total cost can vary for many reasons, so contact our team at DBS Business Setup for details.

Here’s How DBS Group Can Help

Want to know how to become an influencer in Dubai? Not sure how to get started? If you want to get an influencer license in Dubai, we can guide you. Not only that, we also help you get your Dubai influencer visa. DBS Consultancy Group is full of skilled people who understand the entire process. They are trained to answer your questions and help you make a name for yourself with the Dubai government.

Along with that, we also help with company setup in Dubai and the UAE. We take care of the legal steps for you and provide complete assistance during the important steps of setting up a business in Dubai. From choosing a business name to getting a license to set up a company in the UAE and the visa process, we manage it all.

FAQs: People also ask

Q1. Does Every Influencer Need a License in Dubai?

If you earn a good income from brand promotion or paid collaborations, you must apply for an influencer license in Dubai. If you are not sure about the process, it is better to contact a business setup expert like DBS Group.

Q2. How Much Does an Influencer Earn in Dubai?

Earnings as an influencer depend on the size of your audience and how well they engage with your content. An influencer with a large number of followers can charge more than AED 100,000 for a single post.

Q3. Is an Influencer License The Same as a Trade License?

An influencer license is different from a trade license. The Media Regulatory Office issues influencer licenses to allow creators to operate legally. On the other hand, trade licenses are issued to companies that carry out commercial activities.