The new Dubai-based Creators HQ, the first global centre of its kind, and Meta – which owns Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp – have announced the launch of the ‘Creators for Purpose’ programme through a strategic partnership. This initiative aims to support creators in the region to produce “meaningful, high-value content that spreads positivity across communities” via Instagram and Facebook.
The announcement was made on Sunday at the Instagram Hub Pavilion during the third edition of the 1 Billion Followers Summit, which attracted over 15,000 content creators and more than 420 prominent speakers from around the world.
The summit also introduced the largest and most valuable global award for purposeful content creators, worth $1 million, along with the One Billion Pitches competition. The latter successfully brought together over ten investment funds, securing Dh50 million to support content creators.
Why UAE?
Meta selected the UAE for the programme’s launch, in collaboration with Creators HQ, due to the nation’s leadership in shaping the future of digital media and content creation. The UAE’s dynamic environment fosters innovation and supports influencers and creators through its inclusive culture and a population of over 195 nationalities living in remarkable harmony.
Moon Baz, Global Partnerships Lead for Africa, Middle East and Turkey at Meta, stated: “This strategic partnership with Creators HQ in Dubai is pivotal as it aligns with our shared mission to support and promote content that fosters positive societal growth. Our goal is to empower creative content creators who produce meaningful, original, and innovative material, providing them with the tools to reach broader audiences, sustain their efforts, and showcase their exceptional contributions. This programme will also enhance their knowledge of best practices and tools to achieve success and impact.”
Strengthening the sector
Alia AlHammadi, Vice Chairperson of the UAE Government Media Office and CEO of the 1 Billion Followers Summit, said: “The UAE plays a pivotal role in shaping digital media and content creation, and the future of this rapidly evolving industry. Our primary objective is to establish a robust content industry in the region that serves positive societal goals. Through our strategic partnership at Creators HQ with Meta, we aim to empower this sector to achieve meaningful objectives, from enhancing creators’ capabilities to expanding their reach and audience base.”
She added that the development highlights the shift from traditional media to digital platforms, “which now drive societal narratives and values, shaping the future and prosperity of communities worldwide”.