Dubai is raising the bar for travel content creators by launching a first-of-its-kind initiative — the Beautiful Destinations Academy, Powered by Dubai. Visit Dubai, in collaboration with Beautiful Destinations, leads the programme to formalise the influencer industry, providing structured training, professional mentorship, and hands-on learning opportunities for aspiring creators worldwide.
The launch comes on the heels of a wider strategy to attract digital talent and amplify Dubai’s global presence as a travel hotspot, including the recently introduced golden visa for content creators and a Dhs150 million government fund supporting creative professionals.
A professional roadmap for aspiring content creators
Aimed at equipping influencers with both creative and business acumen, the Dubai travel influencer academy promises an intensive curriculum tailored to the demands of modern digital storytelling.
The Dubai College of Tourism, in partnership with industry leaders, has outlined the following core learning modules:
- Audio-visual content creation across multiple platforms
- Advanced cinematography techniques, including transitions and movement
- Post-production workflows, including editing, grading, sound design, and music selection
- Emerging tech tools like AI-assisted content creation, CGI, and VFX
- Marketing strategies focused on audience engagement and brand alignment
- Tourism sector insights and destination marketing know-how
- Professional ethics and commercial skills essential for long-term success
Participants will also receive direct mentorship from leading experts in travel media and digital content, with graduates earning a certificate of participation issued by the Dubai College of Tourism.
Bridging creativity and commerce in the influencer space
The academy isn’t just about learning how to shoot stunning videos or snap the perfect Instagram shot. It’s about building a sustainable career in the ever-evolving world of content creation. Creators master algorithms and negotiate brand partnerships through the programme, gaining insight into the often-overlooked commercial side of influencing.
Issam Kazim, CEO of the Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing, emphasized the city’s strategic commitment to fostering creative excellence:
“The launch of this innovative programme with Beautiful Destinations is a testament to our commitment to creativity, innovation, and excellence in the tourism sector. By providing a dedicated space for content creators, we aim to amplify Dubai’s global appeal and further solidify our position as the best city to visit, live, and work in.”
Kazim added that the academy aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), which aims to position Dubai as a global leader in business and leisure by leveraging digital innovation and talent development.
Influencer golden visa: Paving the way for creative residency
The academy complements another major initiative launched earlier this year — the content creator golden visa. Introduced shortly after the 1 Billion Followers Summit in January 2025, the visa allows eligible influencers and creatives to live and work in Dubai without a sponsor.
To streamline the process, the Creators HQ was established at Emirates Towers to assist up to 10,000 content creators. The initiative is part of a broader vision to transform Dubai into a global content creation hub, with infrastructure and support systems in place for long-term career development.
Applications for the golden visa can be submitted through the official Creators HQ website, where each case is reviewed under the Golden Visa criteria for Content Creators and Creative Talent.
The rising influence of digital storytelling
The academy’s launch comes at a time when 76% of travel decisions are influenced by social media, according to recent industry data. As digital storytelling becomes a primary driver of tourism trends, Dubai’s move to institutionalize influencer training marks a significant shift.
By ensuring that content creators understand not only how to create compelling visual narratives but also how to align them with broader tourism goals, Dubai is creating a win-win scenario — one that benefits influencers, audiences, and the city itself.
Dubai positions itself as a global content capital
From panoramic skyline shots to immersive desert journeys, Dubai has long been a playground for travel creators. With the launch of the Dubai travel influencer academy, the city is doubling down on its efforts to become the world’s leading destination for digital creativity.
The programme redefines influencer training, support, and integration into the tourism narrative, powered by expert mentors, structured training, and a strong tourism ecosystem.
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