Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Ruler of Dubai and Vice President of the United Arab Emirates, inaugurated the National Strategy for the Cultural and Creative Industries in November 2021. This strategy aims to increase the role of the creative and cultural sectors in the UAE economy, with the goal of ensuring that they contribute 5% of the GDP by the next decade.
Attracting Creative Talent to the UAE
Noura bint Mohammed Al Kaabi, the Minister of Culture and Youth, highlighted that the strategy is focused on attracting the best creative professionals and talents to the UAE. This announcement came during the International Year of Creative Economy for Sustainable Development, as declared by the United Nations for 2021.
Key Initiatives of the National Strategy
The National Strategy for the Cultural and Creative Industries consists of 40 initiatives across three major segments: talents and creatives, professionals and business environment, and enabling the business environment. Sixteen initiatives focus on talents and creatives, ten on professionals and business environment, and fourteen on enabling the business environment.
The Launch of the Talent Pass by Dubai Airport Freezone
The Dubai Airport Free Zone Authority (DAFZA) has launched a Talent Pass for freelancers in fields such as art, media, culture, marketing, technology, education, and consulting. This initiative was undertaken in collaboration with Dubai Culture and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs, which will process visas and facilitate licenses.
The Talent Pass, issued by the Dubai Airport Free Zone, costs AED 9,500 (USD 2,586) and must be renewed annually. However, renewal charges will vary, according to Abdulaziz Al Hammadi, Senior Vice President – Marketing and Business Growth of DAFZA. Talent Pass holders can also avail themselves of a three-year residency visa.
Additional Benefits for Talent Pass Holders
Abdulaziz Al Hammadi noted that eligible Talent Pass holders can apply for a UAE Golden Visa. Renting office space in the Dubai Airport Free Zone is not mandatory, but those needing workspace or meeting facilities can make use of the services provided by DAFZA.
A Hub for Business Growth
The Dubai Airport Free Zone is home to 1,800 companies across 20 industry sectors. The Talent Pass supports innovators in establishing, operating, and growing their businesses in Dubai. Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni, Executive Chairman of Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority, emphasized that the Talent Pass responds to changing market requirements in the post-pandemic period.
Other Business Licenses Offered by DAFZA
In addition to the Talent Pass, DAFZA offers other business licenses , including:
- E-commerce License: For online buying and selling of goods and services.
- Industrial License: For light manufacturing activities, packaging, and assembly.
- Commerce License: For export/import, including re-export.
- Services License: For offering professional services.
How A&A Associate Can Help
A&A Associate LLC provides corporate services related to business setup in Dubai and across the UAE. We have assisted clients from over 100 countries, maintaining an excellent client satisfaction rate. For more information on obtaining a Talent Pass in Dubai, call +971 4 2690673 or use the form below to send us a message.
