Creators HQ, Amazon Ads open applications for region’s first Amazon Creators Foundry

Creators HQ and Amazon Ads have opened applications for the Amazon Creators Foundry, the region’s first programme designed to help UAE-based content creators launch and scale consumer products on Amazon.ae and across Amazon’s global stores. Applications run from 26 August to 9 September 2026 and will be assessed against set eligibility criteria, with 20 creators selected for a structured, six‑month support programme that includes access to Amazon's international selling programme and priority onboarding.

"Creators in the UAE are already shaping culture and driving commerce through their content - Amazon Creators Foundry gives them the infrastructure to turn that influence into lasting success. From product launch to global expansion, we're providing end-to-end support so creators can grow their businesses on Amazon.ae and beyond. This is what the future of entrepreneurship looks like," said Rayan Karaky, Managing Director of Amazon Ads, EMEA and Southeast Asia.

Programme details and eligibility

The Amazon Creators Foundry, a joint initiative between Creators HQ — the UAE and Middle East’s first dedicated creators’ hub and part of Visioneers — and Amazon Ads, targets creators who already sell products through social media or other channels and who maintain a minimum audience reach of 100,000 followers. Candidates must be based in the UAE and hold, or be willing to obtain, a valid Dubai e‑commerce trade license. Full terms and conditions are available on the initiative’s landing page.

Selected creators will receive end‑to‑end support to build and scale online storefronts on Amazon.ae, covering business licensing through the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), Amazon.ae seller account setup, product listing, Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) implementation, and the launch of initial advertising campaigns. The programme includes fast-tracked onboarding, a dedicated account manager as a single point of contact throughout the six‑month journey, and custom storefront designs and premium SEO-optimised listings.

• Number of creators to be selected: 20
• Minimum audience requirement: 100,000 followers
• Programme length: 6 months
• Advertising and media support: up to $100,000 in Amazon DSP media budget and $2,000 in Amazon Sponsored Ads incentive match per creator
• Support services: dedicated account management, premium storefronts, Amazon Ads credits, workshops, and roundtables with senior Amazon leadership

Strategic context and leadership perspective

Alia Al Hammadi, Vice Chairperson of the UAE Government Media Office and CEO of the 1 Billion Followers Summit, highlighted the initiative as part of a broader push to transition the creator economy into sustainable investment and cross‑border digital commerce. "The Amazon Creators Foundry represents an innovative initiative that establishes an important model for inspiring content creators to expand their businesses and actively contribute to driving digital economic growth," she said, noting that the programme aligns with Creators HQ’s vision to position the UAE as a global hub for talent and creative minds.

Participants will also benefit from Amazon Ads upskilling workshops, quarterly workshops on online retail fundamentals, digital marketing and brand building, and semi‑annual mentorship sessions led by Amazon senior leadership. Eligible creators who complete the programme will gain access to Amazon's international selling programme, enabling listings across North America, Europe, MENA and the Asia‑Pacific to reach hundreds of millions of customers.

The application window closes on 9 September 2026; interested creators can apply via the Creators HQ website. The initiative aims to convert digital influence into scalable commerce by combining platform infrastructure, advertising support and market access for a new cohort of UAE‑based creator entrepreneurs.