Are you an influencer looking for a permit/license to keep your revenue up in Dubai’s digital world? You are at the right place. Like you, there are hundreds of influencers looking to turn their content into cash, but there’s one thing you can’t skip: getting your influencer permit (a.k.a. the golden ticket to doing business as a creator in Dubai). In this article, we’ll break down the entire steps of getting an influencer permit, no stiff legal jargon, promise!
Why do I need an Influencer License anyway?
Simple: Dubai loves its creators, but it really loves doing things by the books. If you’re earning money from your TikTok dances, Insta collabs, YouTube reviews, or any type of social media promo, the government wants you licensed up. If you don’t get the license, well, congratulations, your risks of attracting fines have increased. So, let’s avoid that!
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What Permits Do I Need?
Ready for a mini-level up (on your legal status)? You’ll need two main things:
Business/Trade License
This turns your creative hustle into a real business. You can get it through a UAE free zone business setup firm or Dubai’s Economic Department. Whether you’re solo or eyeing an influencer agency in the future, this is the primary license you need.
Influencer (Media) License
This is your actual influencer permit. Its official name is “E-Media or NMC License”, and you can obtain it from the UAE Media Council online. This basically says, “I’m a legit online content creator.”
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Advertiser permit for paid brand deals
According to media reports as of July 30, 2025, you’ll likely also need something called an Advertiser Permit for paid brand deals. Fees are pretty high (AED 15,000/year) but totally waived for the first three years if you’re already a UAE resident.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Getting an Influencer Permit
- You need to sort Out Your UAE Residency. If you’re already living in Dubai? It’s fab. If not, you’ll need a residence visa and an Emirates ID to get started.
- You can then apply for Your Business License yourself, or take the help of a company that helps set up your business in Dubai.
- Short out your Paperwork? Usual stuff is a passport copy, an Emirates ID, a visa page, some photo, and a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) if you’re already employed.
- (From July 30, 2025) You’ll be required to apply for an Advertiser Permit for any paid posts or brand deals. Jump on this as soon as it’s active to stay above board.
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What Do You Need for All This?
- Passport copy
- Residency visa and Emirates ID
- Passport-size photos (no filters, sorry)
- Business/Trade license copy
- NOC from employer/sponsor (where needed)
- Social media account links (yep, they want to see your fabulous feed)
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What are the License Duration and Renewal
Influencer and trade licenses must be renewed annually. Keep contact data and social media account information current for seamless renewals.
Individual License:
These are good for solo influencer operations, and this license covers full content and brand control, which is probably best for most creators.
Group/Collective License:
This is for agencies or multiple influencers under a company set-up, so until and unless you’re a company you don’t need to worry about.
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Agency License:
For influencers managed by a certified agency, license cost and compliance are managed by the agency, but creative freedom may be limited.