Latest news with #1BillionFollowersSummit
Al Etihad
16-07-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
Creators HQ hosts regional launch of 'Nothing Phone 3'
16 July 2025 22:59 DUBAI (ALETIHAD) British tech company 'Nothing' marked its regional debut with the launch of its new Nothing Phone (3) and first over-ear Headphone (1) during an event held at the Museum of the Future in partnership with Creators event marked a major milestone for the brand, which selected Dubai as the starting point for its regional journey, reflecting its vision for innovation and with content creators in mind, the new devices offer advanced performance and immersive audio-visual features to support high-quality launch was attended by over 120 leading content creators from across the region, who together command an online audience of more than 90 million followers. The gathering provided a platform for creators and tech innovators to exchange ideas and explore new tools for digital Phone (3) and Headphone (1) were introduced as powerful production tools to help creators enhance productivity and build sustainable digital businesses. The launch aligns with the UAE's wider vision for a creative, digitally driven those in attendance were Akis Evangelidis, Co-founder of Nothing; Rishi Kishor Gupta, Regional Director for the Middle East and Africa; Alia Al Hammadi, Deputy Chairperson of the UAE Government Media Office and CEO of the 1 Billion Followers Summit; and Abdulaziz AlJaziri, Deputy CEO of the Dubai Future Foundation, alongside key media and tech said the launch at the Museum of the Future symbolised the company's focus on shaping next-generation user experiences.'Through this event, we're not just unveiling devices — we're delivering experiences that empower users to express their individuality, connect, and create in unprecedented ways,' he Al Hammadi said the UAE continues to serve as a global hub for innovation and creativity. She praised Creators HQ's role in supporting the creator economy with access to world-class tools and a collaborative highlighted the UAE's position as a magnet for global tech companies, saying, 'Hosting this launch reflects growing interest from global startups and innovators in the UAE's digital ecosystem. Our country continues to offer unmatched opportunities in future sectors, including advanced tech, communications, and new media.'The Phone (3) features a revamped transparent design with the new Glyph Matrix interface, professional-grade camera, and a Snapdragon® 8s Gen 4 processor for enhanced performance and (1), developed with British audio firm KEF, includes advanced noise cancellation, spatial audio, and a distinctive transparent finish. It was designed with creators and music enthusiasts in mind. Nothing also announced the launch of its #Drops100 campaign, which begins on July 17 at Sharaf DG in Dubai Mall, giving early buyers access to the Phone (3) and Headphone (1) ahead of their market release.
Time of India
02-07-2025
- Business
- Time of India
UAE Golden Visa 2025: What students should know about qualifications for the five new categories
UAE Golden Visa 2025: The United Arab Emirates has broadened its prestigious Golden Visa scheme, adding five new professional categories aimed at attracting global talent. Announced in May 2025, this expansion opens up fresh pathways to 10-year, self-sponsored residency for individuals in sectors such as healthcare, education, digital content, gaming, and maritime luxury. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now For students, these changes offer future residency opportunities tied directly to career paths. Understanding the qualifications for each new category can help students plan studies and build relevant experience early on. Nurses with long-term service Nursing students should note that professionals with over 15 years of service are now eligible for the Golden Visa, as per the announcement made by Dubai Health on May 12, 2025. This recognises the critical role nurses play in Dubai's growing medical tourism sector, which sees 3.7 million visitors annually, according to the Dubai Health Authority (DHA). Students aiming to qualify should focus on clinical excellence and long-term service in public or private hospitals, ideally in the UAE. Teachers and educators in private institutions The Golden Visa is now open to private school teachers, principals, and academic staff in universities across Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah. The scheme is managed by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) and RAK DOK. Students pursuing degrees in education or subject specialisations should work toward teaching roles in KHDA-approved schools or universities. Academic distinction and experience will enhance eligibility, and family sponsorship is included under this category. Content creators and digital media professionals Creative arts, media, and communications students can now target the content creator visa, introduced at the 1 Billion Followers Summit. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Managed by Creators HQ, this track supports filmmakers, influencers, and other digital creators without the need for employer sponsorship. Applicants must demonstrate significant digital impact or an engaged online audience. A strong portfolio and participation in regional media events can strengthen a student's future application. E-sports and gaming professionals Students passionate about gaming, development, or event management can explore the new gaming-focused visa, available through Dubai's DPG33 and Abu Dhabi's Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT). Applicants must be over 25 and accredited by Dubai Culture. Career options include professional gaming, e-sports organisation roles, and digital design. With the UAE's gaming market worth $1.8 billion, students in this space have expanding prospects. Luxury yacht owners and maritime executives Students interested in marine engineering, luxury tourism, or yacht management can benefit from the Golden Quay initiative by Abu Dhabi. The visa is open to owners of yachts over 40 metres and senior executives in the maritime sector. Careers in naval design, luxury cruise operations, or marina management may lead to eligibility. The maritime industry's value, currently $1.2 billion, signals steady growth. By aligning their studies with these high-growth sectors, students can position themselves for long-term success and residency in the UAE.
Time of India
02-07-2025
- Business
- Time of India
UAE adds more professionals to Golden Visa list: 6 key things you should know
A fresh wave of reforms is reshaping residency rights in the United Arab Emirates, as the country moves to widen the gates of its prestigious Golden Visa programme. Announced in May 2025, the latest expansion brings five new professional categories into the fold, a clear signal that the UAE is doubling down on its ambition to attract global talent across sectors beyond traditional finance and tech. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Healthcare workers, private educators, digital creators, e-sports professionals, and luxury yacht owners can now access a 10-year, self-sponsored residency, complete with family sponsorship, under one of the Gulf's most liberalised immigration frameworks. The move is part of a broader economic transformation strategy aimed at positioning the UAE as a destination for long-term settlement, not just short-term opportunity. Below is a breakdown of what's changing, who qualifies, and why the policy matters. Nurses with over 15 years of service now qualify Timed with International Nurses Day, Dubai Health confirmed that long-serving nurses with at least 15 years of continuous experience are now eligible for the Golden Visa. The announcement, made under the directive of Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, acknowledges the vital role of frontline health workers and supports the emirate's medical tourism ambitions. According to the Dubai Health Authority, Dubai hosts more than 3.7 million medical tourists annually, a figure expected to rise in the coming years. Private school and university educators included Teachers and university faculty in Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah have also been brought under the Golden Visa umbrella. The Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) and the Department of Knowledge (RAK DOK) will oversee the implementation, which aims to retain top educational talent in a system ranked among the world's top ten by UNESCO. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Eligible educators will be permitted to sponsor their families, providing a stable, long-term pathway that contrasts with more restrictive visa regimes in neighbouring countries. Digital creators get a visa track of their own Filmmakers, content creators, and digital influencers now have access to an independent visa track through Creators HQ. Announced at the 1 Billion Followers Summit, this pathway does not require employer sponsorship, making it especially attractive to freelancers and digital entrepreneurs. Dubai's creative economy currently contributes an estimated $2 billion per year, according to the Department of Economic Development, a figure expected to grow as digital-first talent relocates to the emirate. E-sports professionals join the list With the gaming industry booming across the region, professionals over the age of 25 working in e-sports and game development are now eligible for long-term residency. Applications can be made through Dubai's DPG33 initiative, with mandatory accreditation from Dubai Culture. Abu Dhabi's Department of Culture and Tourism has adopted a similar model. According to Statista, the UAE's gaming sector is valued at $1.8 billion, while Esports Insider reports that Abu Dhabi hosts around 20% of global gaming events. Luxury yacht owners and executives now eligible Under the new Golden Quay initiative, Abu Dhabi has opened the visa programme to yacht owners with vessels exceeding 40 meters in length and executives within the luxury maritime sector. The inclusion reflects the emirate's push to grow its $1.2 billion maritime tourism economy, according to AD Ports. Visa holders under this category are eligible to sponsor family members, further incentivising long-term residence and investment. Streamlined application, global edge The Golden Visa programme remains self-sponsored and application-based, with a streamlined process handled through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP). Processing takes roughly 30 days, considerably shorter than similar skilled migration schemes in Australia or Singapore. Applicants must provide proof of qualifications, professional contributions, or ownership, depending on their category. Family sponsorship is available across most tracks, reinforcing the UAE's long-term settlement model. Aligned with vision 2030 The expansion forms a key pillar of the UAE's Vision 2030, which targets the attraction of 100,000 skilled professionals to drive innovation-led growth. CBRE data shows non-oil sectors contributed 8% GDP growth in 2024, gains now reinforced by talent acquisition across healthcare, education, gaming, and luxury tourism. LinkedIn data also reveals a 70% retention rate among Golden Visa holders, underscoring the programme's success in anchoring top global professionals. A shift in regional policy thinking Unlike temporary employment visas common across the Gulf, the UAE's model encourages permanence, entrepreneurship, and autonomy. With over 20,000 Golden Visas issued since the programme's launch in 2019, the latest expansion further distances the Emirates from its regional counterparts in terms of immigration policy and economic openness. By extending the Golden Visa to these newly prioritised sectors, the UAE sends a clear message: the future belongs to creators, caregivers, and innovators, and they are welcome to build that future from within its borders.
Time of India
01-07-2025
- Business
- Time of India
UAE Golden Visa Expands: These five new professionals are eligible - do you qualify?
The UAE's expanded Golden Visa now welcomes professionals from healthcare, education, digital media, gaming, and luxury yachting with 10-year residency benefits/Representative Image. In a significant move to strengthen its position as a global hub for innovation and skilled professionals, the United Arab Emirates has announced the expansion of its prestigious Golden Visa program. This update, made public in May 2025, adds five new eligibility categories to the 10-year residency scheme. Professionals from diverse fields including healthcare, education, digital content, e-sports, and maritime luxury can now access long-term residency benefits without employer sponsorship, making the UAE an increasingly attractive destination for global talent and their families. New Golden Visa Categories and Who Can Apply The UAE's Golden Visa program, originally launched in 2019, now encompasses a broader range of professionals with the aim of accelerating economic diversification and attracting knowledge-based talent. The five newly introduced categories are: 1. Nurses With Long-Term Service On May 12, 2025, coinciding with International Nurses Day, Dubai Health, under the directive of Sheikh Hamdan, announced 10-year visas for nurses with over 15 years of service. This decision honours the critical role of nurses in healthcare, especially as Dubai receives around 3.7 million medical tourists annually, according to Dubai Health Authority (DHA) data. 2. Teachers and Educators Private school teachers, principals, and university academic staff in Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah are now eligible for the visa. The Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) in Dubai and RAK DOK in Ras Al Khaimah manage the scheme, which recognizes academic excellence and allows for family sponsorship. The initiative aims to elevate the UAE's already strong educational system, which ranks 10th globally per UNESCO. 3. Content Creators Launched at the 1 Billion Followers Summit , the creative residency track targets filmmakers and social media influencers. Managed by Creators HQ, this visa requires no employer sponsorship, making it particularly attractive to digital nomads and freelancers. The move supports Dubai's growing media industry, which contributes $2 billion annually, according to Dubai's Department of Economic Development (DED). 4. E-Sports and Gaming Professionals Applicants aged over 25 can now apply through Dubai's DPG33 initiative and require accreditation from Dubai Culture. Abu Dhabi's Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT) extends similar benefits, reinforcing the UAE's presence in the booming global gaming sector. With a gaming market valued at $1.8 billion and major events drawing significant footfall, the UAE is becoming a key player in the e-sports landscape, according to Statista. 5. Luxury Yacht Owners Under Abu Dhabi's Golden Quay initiative, owners of yachts longer than 40 meters, as well as executives in the yacht industry, are eligible for the 10-year residency. The visa includes family sponsorship and supports the emirate's luxury maritime tourism industry, currently valued at $1.2 billion, per AD Ports. Strategic Vision and Economic Impact The Golden Visa expansion is a strategic component of the UAE's Vision 2030, which aims to transition the national economy away from oil dependence by attracting 100,000 skilled professionals by 2030, as reported by the Emirates News Agency (WAM). The updated program is designed to reinforce critical sectors: Healthcare and Education: Bolstered by long-serving nurses and educators, which in turn support Dubai's ambition to be a leading medical and academic destination. Creative Economy: Driven by digital content creators and gamers. Dubai's gaming-related events alone attract approximately 500,000 visitors every year, according to the Dubai Economy and Tourism (DET). Maritime and Luxury Tourism: Strengthened through the inclusion of luxury yacht owners, contributing to the 8% GDP growth in non-oil sectors, per CBRE. By allowing family sponsorship across most new categories, the UAE encourages long-term settlement and community integration, a feature that differentiates it from neighbouring nations such as Qatar, where residency options remain limited. Simplified Process and Global Edge Unlike traditional residency systems that require employer sponsorship, the UAE's Golden Visa is self-sponsored. Applications are submitted through the ICP's online portal or licensed government-affiliated agencies in Dubai. Required documents vary by category and include: Verified qualifications and experience Evidence of impact or contributions (for creatives and educators) Proof of ownership (for yacht owners) Processing takes around 30 days, according to the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) significantly faster than countries like Singapore, where approval may take up to 90 days, as per the Ministry of Manpower (MOM). The system's simplicity and flexibility especially appeal to freelancers and independent professionals, making it competitive with other programs such as: Canada's Express Entry Australia's Skilled Migration Visa Singapore's Global Talent Programme Crucially, this approach has helped retain top talent, with 70% of Golden Visa holders remaining in the UAE after initial issuance, as per LinkedIn data. Positioning the UAE on the Global Stage The Golden Visa program is not just a residency plan, it's part of a broader strategy to shape the UAE's global identity as a destination for opportunity, innovation, and investment. Since its launch in 2019, the program has already issued 20,000 Golden Visas, according to WAM. Emirates (EK) and Etihad (EY) airlines enhance accessibility with routes to over 150 global destinations, facilitating international arrivals. Dubai alone is home to 15,000 startups, according to Dubai Development Authority (DDA), highlighting the country's robust entrepreneurial landscape. Abu Dhabi hosts 20% of all global gaming events, per Esports Insider, cementing the UAE's reputation as a growing powerhouse in the gaming sector. The UAE's tax-free regime, combined with long-term residency and high-end infrastructure, continues to attract high-net-worth individuals and top-tier professionals globally.
Time of India
01-07-2025
- Business
- Time of India
UAE Golden Visa: Welcoming 5 new professional categories, see if you qualify
In a significant move to strengthen its position as a global hub for innovation and skilled professionals, the United Arab Emirates has announced the expansion of its prestigious Golden Visa program. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now This update, made public in May 2025, adds five new eligibility categories to the 10-year residency scheme. Professionals from diverse fields including healthcare, education, digital content, e-sports, and maritime luxury can now access long-term residency benefits without employer sponsorship, making the UAE an increasingly attractive destination for global talent and their families. New Golden Visa Categories and Who Can Apply The UAE's Golden Visa program, originally launched in 2019, now encompasses a broader range of professionals with the aim of accelerating economic diversification and attracting knowledge-based talent. The five newly introduced categories are: 1. Nurses With Long-Term Service On May 12, 2025, coinciding with International Nurses Day, Dubai Health, under the directive of Sheikh Hamdan, announced 10-year visas for nurses with over 15 years of service. This decision honours the critical role of nurses in healthcare, especially as Dubai receives around 3.7 million medical tourists annually, according to Dubai Health Authority (DHA) data. 2. Teachers and Educators Private school teachers, principals, and university academic staff in Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah are now eligible for the visa. The Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) in Dubai and RAK DOK in Ras Al Khaimah manage the scheme, which recognizes academic excellence and allows for family sponsorship. The initiative aims to elevate the UAE's already strong educational system, which ranks 10th globally per UNESCO. 3. Content Creators Launched at the 1 Billion Followers Summit , the creative residency track targets filmmakers and social media influencers. Managed by Creators HQ, this visa requires no employer sponsorship, making it particularly attractive to digital nomads and freelancers. The move supports Dubai's growing media industry, which contributes $2 billion annually, according to Dubai's Department of Economic Development (DED). Tired of too many ads? go ad free now 4. E-Sports and Gaming Professionals Applicants aged over 25 can now apply through Dubai's DPG33 initiative and require accreditation from Dubai Culture. Abu Dhabi's Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT) extends similar benefits, reinforcing the UAE's presence in the booming global gaming sector. With a gaming market valued at $1.8 billion and major events drawing significant footfall, the UAE is becoming a key player in the e-sports landscape, according to Statista. 5. Luxury Yacht Owners Under Abu Dhabi's Golden Quay initiative, owners of yachts longer than 40 meters, as well as executives in the yacht industry, are eligible for the 10-year residency. The visa includes family sponsorship and supports the emirate's luxury maritime tourism industry, currently valued at $1.2 billion, per AD Ports. Strategic Vision and Economic Impact The Golden Visa expansion is a strategic component of the UAE's Vision 2030, which aims to transition the national economy away from oil dependence by attracting 100,000 skilled professionals by 2030, as reported by the Emirates News Agency (WAM). The updated program is designed to reinforce critical sectors: Healthcare and Education: Bolstered by long-serving nurses and educators, which in turn support Dubai's ambition to be a leading medical and academic destination. Creative Economy: Driven by digital content creators and gamers. Dubai's gaming-related events alone attract approximately 500,000 visitors every year, according to the Dubai Economy and Tourism (DET). Maritime and Luxury Tourism: Strengthened through the inclusion of luxury yacht owners, contributing to the 8% GDP growth in non-oil sectors, per CBRE. By allowing family sponsorship across most new categories, the UAE encourages long-term settlement and community integration, a feature that differentiates it from neighbouring nations such as Qatar, where residency options remain limited. Simplified Process and Global Edge Unlike traditional residency systems that require employer sponsorship, the UAE's Golden Visa is self-sponsored. Applications are submitted through the ICP's online portal or licensed government-affiliated agencies in Dubai. Required documents vary by category and include: Verified qualifications and experience Evidence of impact or contributions (for creatives and educators) Proof of ownership (for yacht owners) Processing takes around 30 days, according to the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) significantly faster than countries like Singapore, where approval may take up to 90 days, as per the Ministry of Manpower (MOM). The system's simplicity and flexibility especially appeal to freelancers and independent professionals, making it competitive with other programs such as: Canada's Express Entry Australia's Skilled Migration Visa Singapore's Global Talent Programme Crucially, this approach has helped retain top talent, with 70% of Golden Visa holders remaining in the UAE after initial issuance, as per LinkedIn data. Positioning the UAE on the Global Stage The Golden Visa program is not just a residency plan, it's part of a broader strategy to shape the UAE's global identity as a destination for opportunity, innovation, and investment. Since its launch in 2019, the program has already issued 20,000 Golden Visas, according to WAM. Emirates (EK) and Etihad (EY) airlines enhance accessibility with routes to over 150 global destinations, facilitating international arrivals. (EY) airlines enhance accessibility with routes to over 150 global destinations, facilitating international arrivals. Dubai alone is home to 15,000 startups, according to Dubai Development Authority (DDA), highlighting the country's robust entrepreneurial landscape. Abu Dhabi hosts 20% of all global gaming events, per Esports Insider, cementing the UAE's reputation as a growing powerhouse in the gaming sector. The UAE's tax-free regime, combined with long-term residency and high-end infrastructure, continues to attract high-net-worth individuals and top-tier professionals globally.
