If you are a tourist visiting the UAE and plan to shoot content promoting a brand, whether you have been paid or not, you need to obtain the UAE Visitor Advertiser Permit.
In this article, we outline the steps you need to take to get one.
What is the UAE Visitor Advertiser Permit?
First, let’s understand what this permit is.
The permit is a document or licence granted to any individual entering the UAE on a visit visa who wishes to promote a brand on social media, or a digital platform, whether or not they will be paid.
Even sharing coupon or discount codes is deemed as promoting a brand.
If you are just shooting content to post on your own accounts, then you do not need to apply for this permit.
It is an initiative by the UAE Media Council aimed at regulating the rapidly growing content creation industry in the country and strengthening the UAE’s position as a hub for the digital and gig economy.
Related: Best Time to Visit Dubai as a Solo Female Traveler
How to Apply for the Visitor Advertiser Permit
The application process must be completed through a licensed advertising or talent management agency in the UAE.
Before listing some of the agencies you can use, below is a step-by-step overview of how to acquire your visitor advertiser permit:
Identify an agency
Choose a UAE Media Council–licensed advertising or talent management agency. See list below.
Submit your documents
You will be required to submit:
- Passport details
- Occupation
- Contact details & Address
- Your social media account details
Identify the management package or account
The agency will outline the type of management agreement available to you.
Enter into a talent management agreement
This means the agency will:
- Be responsible for managing your promotional content
- Facilitate conversations and negotiations between you and the brand
- Approve content before posting
- Provide content insights and guidance
The management fee typically ranges between 15% and 20% of the amount paid by the brand.
Once the agreement is signed, you will pay the required permit and agency fees.
Licensed / Accredited Advertising & Talent Management Agencies
Below is a list of UAE Media Council–accredited agencies. Based on our research, Imfluence is our recommended agency, as they respond quickly and offer a faster turnaround time.
- Imfluence Digital Marketing LLC
- Xpozed LLC
- New Media Academy
- The Agency 971 Marketing Management
How Much is the Visitor Advertiser Permit?
The fee ranges between AED 700 and AED 1,500, depending on the agency and the agreement.
For Imfluence, if you are getting paid to promote a brand, the package costs around AED 700. Note that once you get paid, the agency will deduct their management fee before sending you the remaining amount.
Additionally, you may pay AED 1,500 to enter into a barter agreement with brands. What does this mean? This applies when you promote content without payment and instead receive products or services in exchange. The fee is higher because, in this case, the agency does not earn a commission, unlike paid brand collaborations, where they take a percentage.
How Long Does it Take to be Processed?
It take about 2 to 3 weeks so ensure you book well in advance.
It is valid for 3 months, with the option to extend for 3 more months, for a maximum of 6 months, at a go.
If you were to go back to Dubai after the permit has expired, you will have to apply a fresh for a new one.
