In the past, news was primarily accessed through newspapers and television. However, the digital revolution has changed everything, making information easily accessible on our phones via social media. Social media not only entertains but also informs and influences us. It has opened up numerous job opportunities for content creators. To support and empower these creators, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has allocated Dhs 150 million to establish a fund. This fund aims to provide year-round support and create a permanent influencers headquarters, reinforcing the importance of content creation in today's digital landscape.
The announcement was made at the 1 Billion Followers Summit, hosted by the New Media Academy in Dubai. During the event, 90 content creators graduated from the 'Social Media Professional Program', and the 4th cohort of the 'Faris Al Muhtawa' was also celebrated.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed highlighted the importance of content creation as a tool that conveys the UAE’s story to the world and a window into its traditions, cultural accomplishments, and the creativity of its new generations that turns ideas into reality and drives the progress of humanity.
"Today we issued directives to allocate a fund valued at AED 150 million to support content creators and transform the digital media sector. We also instructed the establishment of a permanent influencers headquarters that provides year-round support. These steps align with our ongoing investment in creative talents who will write new inspiring stories that will add to the UAE’s influential media presence on the global stage. Impactful media reflects the past and provides an inspiration for the future", His Highness Sheikh Mohammed said.
Things To Know About The Fund
In collaboration with the New Media Academy, the UAE Government Media Office is establishing a permanent influencers headquarters. This initiative aims to bring together top influencers and content creators, fostering an environment conducive to creating high-quality content aligned with sustainable development goals.
With a fund of Dhs 150 million, it supports the development of creative content, skills and facilitates entry into global markets, showcasing the UAE's story, achievements, and cultural contributions. The fund also seeks to attract investments in the rapidly growing new media sector, fostering storytelling expertise and encouraging contemporary local content to solidify the UAE's status as a global hub for media innovation.
The influencers headquarters offers services like dedicated filming studios, courses in storytelling, photography, broadcasting, and platform management, providing technical support through collaborations with renowned entities like Google and Facebook.