Abu Dhabi – Creators HQ, a pioneering content creator hub in the UAE and part of Visioneers, has joined forces with YouTube to launch the region’s first YouTube Academy. The program is designed to empower content creators across the Middle East and North Africa by providing specialised workshops, in-depth training, and direct access to YouTube’s resources, expertise, and industry leaders.
Javid Aslanov, Head of YouTube Middle East and North Africa, highlighted the significance of the initiative: “We believe creators in MENA are the future of entertainment and the heart of the creator economy. Our collaboration with Creators HQ enables us to extend our support, giving creators the skills to turn their passion into sustainable careers.” This effort is part of YouTube’s broader strategy to enhance the quality and diversity of digital content in the region.
The YouTube Academy offers advanced courses on data analysis, content production, monetisation strategies, and community building, moving beyond generic advice to provide actionable insights. The initiative is particularly important given the recent surge in successful content creators in the region, with the number of UAE-based channels earning seven-figure revenues increasing by 15% year over year, while Saudi Arabia and Egypt saw 40% and 60% growth, respectively.
Alia AlHammadi, Vice Chairperson of the UAE Government Media Office and CEO of the 1Billion Followers Summit, reinforced the impact of the Academy: “This collaboration will equip content creators with the expertise needed to thrive, supporting the UAE’s mission to be a global hub for creativity. It will build a robust creative economy and empower storytellers to shape culture across the region.”
The Academy is not only a platform for skill development but also part of a larger vision to create a sustainable ecosystem where creators can thrive. Future plans include joint initiatives focusing on the use of artificial intelligence in content creation and workshops to help creators amplify the global reach of Arabic content.
With YouTube’s penetration in the region already substantial—reaching over 20 million people in Saudi Arabia and 7.5 million in the UAE over the age of 18 as of May 2024—this collaboration is expected to further cement the UAE’s position as a leading player in the global content economy. As the digital landscape evolves, initiatives like YouTube Academy are crucial in ensuring creators remain competitive and innovative.
This partnership reflects a forward-thinking approach to nurturing creativity, technology, and sustainable growth, contributing significantly to the MENA region’s digital transformation.
