Damac logo black
HomeBLOGDubai’s 1 Billion Followers Su...
January 11, 2025

Dubai’s 1 Billion Followers Summit | Who Will Win the $1M Creator Prize?

Last Updated: April 12, 2025

Welcome to the 1 Billion Followers Summit, the world’s largest gathering of content creators, global leaders, and industry pioneers. Under the theme “Content for Good,” this groundbreaking event is not just a conference—it’s a movement to inspire, innovate, and impact lives through meaningful digital storytelling.

Invest Now in Dubai Real Estate

From 11–13 January 2025, Dubai transforms into the epicenter of the creator economy, welcoming 15,000 attendees to its iconic venues: the Emirates Towers, DIFC, and the Museum of the Future. Organized by the UAE Government Media Office and the New Media Academy, this third edition of the summit is poised to be a game-changer, offering unmatched opportunities for collaboration, learning, and networking.

Event Highlights: Key Details and Themes

Dubai’s relentless commitment to innovation makes it the perfect host for this monumental event. Renowned as a global hub for creativity and entrepreneurship, the city continues to lead the way in fostering digital ecosystems that empower creators and businesses alike. Let’s dive into what makes the 1 Billion Followers Summit a must-attend event for 2025.

  • Dates: The event runs from 11–13 January 2025, spanning three action-packed days of panels, workshops, and networking opportunities.

  • Venues: Hosted at Dubai’s Emirates Towers, the financial district DIFC, and the iconic Museum of the Future, each location reflects Dubai’s vision of innovation and progress.

  • Theme: “Content for Good” focuses on empowering creators to use their platforms for meaningful, positive change, inspiring a new wave of digital storytelling.

What to Expect at the Summit

The summit promises an immersive experience designed to inspire and empower content creators, businesses, and industry leaders alike:

Expect insights from a stellar lineup of global icons:

  • Maye Musk: Model, entrepreneur, and mother of Elon Musk, discussing resilience and impactful parenting.

  • Naguib Sawiris: Egyptian billionaire and media mogul, sharing lessons on innovation and leadership.

  • Ben Relles: AI expert and strategist, exploring how artificial intelligence transforms content creation.

  • Brittany Brown (NASA): Visual storytelling in science and space exploration.

  • Elise Swopes (Adobe): Merging art, technology, and mobile creativity.

  • Over 30 workshops led by global influencers and industry experts.

  • Hands-on sessions covering:

    • Monetizing content creatively.

    • Building authentic brand collaborations.

    • Sustainability in digital storytelling.

  • Meet and connect with 125+ CEOs from global corporations.

  • Engage with 15,000 creators, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders.

Prominent Speakers and Attendees

  • Maye Musk: A celebrated model, author, and the mother of Elon Musk, Maye brings a wealth of experience in resilience and parenting. She will share her journey of raising three successful children, emphasizing the principles that shaped her family’s achievements.

  • Naguib Sawiris: One of Egypt’s most influential billionaires and a global entrepreneur, Sawiris will discuss his groundbreaking innovations in media, telecom, and other industries, offering insights into leadership and the future of business.

  • Ben Relles: Renowned for his expertise in artificial intelligence, Relles will delve into how AI is revolutionizing content creation, from automation to audience engagement.

  • Emma Harman (Whalar Group): A leading voice in brand-talent collaborations, Harman will explore how creators and brands can form impactful partnerships that drive growth.

  • Andre Le Masurier (Skyscanner): With over two decades of branding and marketing experience, Le Masurier will discuss the evolution of branding in the digital era.

  • Elise Swopes: Known for her innovative use of mobile platforms, Swopes will showcase the intersection of art and technology, inspiring creators to explore mobile creativity.

  • Brittany Brown (NASA): As NASA’s Director of Digital Communications, Brown will highlight the power of storytelling in science and how it captivates global audiences.

  • Kate Ward & Zach Honarvar: Founders of Creator Now, they will share their vision of building a creator-centric ecosystem that empowers the next generation of digital storytellers.

  • Paul Bakaus (Spotter): A pioneer in creator tools, Bakaus will reveal how innovative platforms can accelerate workflows and unlock creative potential for content creators.

Invest Now in Dubai Real Estate

Notable Actions and Announcements

  • AI Tools for Creators: Practical sessions on integrating artificial intelligence into content creation to boost efficiency and engagement.

  • Monetizing Content: Strategies to turn passion into profit, focusing on diverse revenue streams.

  • Building Authentic Relationships with Brands: Tips on fostering trust and collaboration between creators and businesses.

  • Trends in Social Media Platforms: Key representatives from YouTube, TikTok, LinkedIn, and Meta will explore the latest platform updates, features, and audience insights.

  • Sustainability in Content Creation: Discussions on using digital platforms to address global challenges and promote sustainable practices.

  • Top 10 Global Creators of the Year: A special segment celebrating the achievements of the most impactful creators who have inspired millions through their content.

  • Major Collaborations: Exciting partnerships between platforms like Meta, LinkedIn, and TikTok will be unveiled, focusing on empowering creators with innovative tools and resources.

This section showcases the influential personalities and groundbreaking activities that make the 1 Billion Followers Summit a transformative event for the global creator economy.

you might also like: Influencer License in Dubai and UAE, All What You Need to Know

1 Billion Followers Summit: $1 Million Content Creator Award Finalists Revealed

The 1 Billion Followers Summit, the world’s largest event dedicated to shaping the content creator economy, has announced the five finalists competing for the prestigious $1 million award, the largest prize ever for meaningful content creation.

Meet the Finalists

  • From Gaza, Mahmoud creates uplifting content showcasing hope amid adversity.

  • Highlights social issues and inspires positive change while contributing to humanitarian efforts.

  • Audience: Over 3 million followers across platforms.

  • Founder of the “Dopamine Caffeine” channel, which simplifies complex books and scientific concepts into engaging and accessible ideas.

  • His mission is to make knowledge available to everyone in an easy-to-understand format.

  • Audience: Over 9 million followers across platforms.

  • A group of four creators united to help displaced families and rebuild communities during crises.

  • Members: Abdullah Saadeh, Hassan Hashim, Hassan Raad, and Abeer Al Saghir.

  • Audience: Combined reach of over 40 million followers.

  • An entrepreneur and motivational speaker who creates content to help people achieve their dreams.

  • Focuses on empowering future leaders and supporting social projects addressing global challenges.

  • Audience: Over 9 million followers.

  • A social media influencer spreading joy, hope, and positivity.

  • Advocates for the transformative power of giving to change lives.

  • Audience: Over 10 million followers.

Here’s everything you need to know about this milestone announcement:

Public Voting Breaks Records

  • The five finalists were selected through public voting held from 22–28 December 2024, attracting an impressive 3.3 million votes from around the globe.

  • This overwhelming participation highlights the summit’s influence and the global interest in impactful content creation.

Event Overview

  • Dates: 11–13 January 2025.

  • Venues: Emirates Towers, DIFC, and the Museum of the Future in Dubai.

  • Theme: “Content for Good” – focused on promoting content that inspires positive change and fosters global unity.

Award’s Vision and Purpose

The 1 Billion Followers Summit Award celebrates content creators who:

  • Inspire positive change and leave a lasting impact on communities.

  • Promote compassion, hope, and empathy among global audiences.

  • Address social issues, empower generations, and bridge cultural divides.

This initiative aims to spotlight creators who influence minds, build connections, and create a better future through meaningful storytelling.

Final Stage and Jury Selection

  • The five finalists will face the final selection by an expert jury during closed sessions on 11 and 12 January 2025.

  • The winner will be announced on Monday, 13 January 2025.

  • Ahmed AlGhandour: Content creator and ambassador for this year’s summit.

  • Prajakta Koli: Global content creator and ambassador for the event.

  • Zakry Dereniowski: Renowned creator known for impactful storytelling.

  • Amine Ehmayer: Winner of the “2024 Hope Creator” award.

  • Hassan Suleiman (Abu Falah): One of the most-followed influencers in the Arab world.

Unprecedented Global Participation

  • The award received 16,000 submissions from creators across 190 countries in just three weeks, reflecting its global appeal and the growing demand for purposeful content.

Why It Matters

The 1 Billion Followers Summit Award not only celebrates creators but also amplifies their voices to inspire millions worldwide. By fostering meaningful collaborations and encouraging impactful storytelling, this event is redefining the role of content creation in driving social progress.

Stay Updated

Follow the 1 Billion Followers Summit for live updates and exclusive coverage of the award announcement and behind-the-scenes insights into this historic event.

Invest Now in Dubai Real Estate

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Attends 1 Billion Followers Summit: Shaping the Content Economy

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, graced the third edition of the 1 Billion Followers Summit with his presence. This global event, hosted over three days from January 11–13, 2025, is the largest of its kind dedicated to the content creation economy. Held under the theme “Content for Good,” the summit takes place at Emirates Towers, DIFC, and the Museum of the Future, welcoming over 15,000 creators and 420 speakers.

Sheikh Mohammed’s Vision for Content Creation

Sheikh Mohammed emphasized the pivotal role of content in shaping awareness, culture, and human development, highlighting its influence on fostering innovation, compassion, and global unity.

“The goal of the 1 Billion Followers Summit is to contribute to building a sustainable economic sector based on content. We are proud to host 15,000 creators with a combined following of 2.3 billion people. The UAE will continue to be a hub and destination for talent in this sector.”– Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum

Global Social Media Platforms Unite

For the first time globally, major social media platforms convened in one space, showcasing their latest tools and strategies for empowering creators:

  • Meta (Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp): Advanced tools for storytelling and bridging cultures.

  • TikTok: Supporting creators through visual storytelling and short-form video trends.

  • YouTube: Enhancing user experiences with continuous support for creative video content.

  • X (formerly Twitter): Encouraging impactful dialogues and supporting writers and thinkers.

  • LinkedIn: A professional community promoting knowledge-sharing and career-focused content.

  • Snapchat: Highlighting inspirational stories and success journeys of creators.

These platforms presented future-focused strategies for combating misinformation, protecting intellectual property, and utilizing AI tools for content creation.

“Invest with Creators” Program

Sheikh Mohammed also visited the jury of the “Invest with Creators” program, which evaluates innovative ideas from startups and individuals in content creation. This initiative, supported by 50 million AED, aims to:

  • Fund and mentor startups and individuals with creative, impactful ideas.

  • Focus on sectors like education, advanced technology, women's empowerment, health, and entrepreneurship.

The program received 500 applications from 40 countries, with 250 entries from startups.

Economic Impact of Content Creation

The summit emphasizes the growing importance of the content economy, valued at $250 billion globally. Key achievements include:

  • Participation of 10 investment funds with a combined value of 50 million AED to support content creators.

  • The summit’s participants represent a managed asset value of $7–8 billion, underlining the sector’s rapid growth.

The $1 Million Content Creator Award

The final day of the summit will crown the winner of the $1 million award, the largest prize ever for meaningful content creation.

  • Top 5 Finalists: Selected via 3.3 million global votes during the public voting period (22–28 December 2024).

    • Mahmoud Zaiter (Palestine): Inspiring hope in Gaza and leading humanitarian efforts.

    • Nasser Al Akeel (Saudi Arabia): Simplifying complex knowledge through engaging videos.

    • “Influencers for Lebanon” Initiative: Helping rebuild communities during crises.

    • Simon Squibb (UK): Motivating future leaders and supporting social enterprises.

    • Samuel Weidenhofer (Australia): Spreading positivity and hope through creative content.

Summit Highlights

  • 340 Sessions: Including panels, roundtables, and keynote speeches.

  • 10+ Investment Funds: Supporting creators and startups.

  • Global Participation: Over 15,000 creators and 420 speakers from around the world.

Key Takeaways

The 1 Billion Followers Summit showcases Dubai’s role as a global leader in the content economy. With groundbreaking collaborations, visionary leadership, and support for creative talent, the summit strengthens the UAE’s position as a hub for innovation, culture, and meaningful storytelling.

Invest Now in Dubai Real Estate

FAQs

Where is the 1 Billion Followers Summit?

The 1 Billion Followers Summit takes place in Dubai, UAE, a city renowned for hosting world-class events and initiatives. The third edition of the summit (2025) is being held across three iconic venues:

  • Emirates Towers: A symbol of Dubai’s commitment to innovation.

  • Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC): A global business hub and center of creativity.

  • Museum of the Future: A landmark representing Dubai’s futuristic vision and technological advancements.

These locations collectively emphasize Dubai's role as a global hub for content creation and innovation.

Who is the Biggest Influencer in Dubai?

Dubai is home to numerous influential personalities across various niches, but some stand out for their massive impact:

  1. Huda Kattan (Huda Beauty): With over 50 million Instagram followers, she is one of the most prominent beauty influencers globally and has built a billion-dollar cosmetics brand.

  2. Mo Vlogs: Famous for luxury lifestyle and supercar content, with a large following on YouTube and Instagram.

  3. Anas Bukhash: Known for his inspirational interviews on his podcast ABTalks, featuring celebrities and thought leaders.

These influencers reflect Dubai’s diverse appeal in beauty, luxury, and intellectual content.

Which Celebrity Is Most Famous in Dubai?

Dubai frequently attracts global celebrities, but a few have a lasting presence:

  1. Cristiano Ronaldo: The football superstar is a frequent visitor, given his partnership with Dubai-based events and awards.

  2. Will Smith: Known for expressing admiration for Dubai’s innovation and hosting events in the city.

  3. Shah Rukh Khan: Bollywood’s King Khan is a global ambassador for Dubai Tourism, often featured in promotional campaigns.

These celebrities embody Dubai’s blend of sports, entertainment, and global appeal.

How Much Do Influencers Get Paid in Dubai?

Influencer earnings in Dubai depend on their follower count, engagement rate, and niche:

  1. Nano-Influencers (1K–10K followers): AED 500–1,500 per post.

  2. Micro-Influencers (10K–50K followers): AED 1,500–5,000 per post.

  3. Macro-Influencers (50K–500K followers): AED 5,000–15,000 per post.

  4. Mega-Influencers (500K+ followers): AED 15,000–100,000+ per post.

Luxury and high-end brand collaborations often pay more, as Dubai is a global hub for luxury tourism, fashion, and lifestyle industries.

How to Earn AED 1,000 in the UAE?

Earning AED 1,000 in the UAE is achievable through various methods:

  1. Content Creation: Write blogs, create social media content, or offer graphic design services.

  2. Tutoring: Offer academic or language lessons through platforms like Superprof or MyPrivateTutor.ae.

  1. Freelancing Websites: Earn via platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or Freelancer.

  2. Survey and Task Apps: Use apps like Toluna or YouGov to participate in surveys and earn rewards.

  1. E-Commerce: Sell handmade items or resell goods on Amazon UAE or Dubizzle.

How Much Does an Influencer with 1,000 Followers Make?

Influencers with 1,000 followers are considered nano-influencers, often working with niche audiences. On average, they can earn:

  • AED 50–150 per post for promoting small brands or local businesses.

  • They may also receive free products or services in exchange for collaborations.

Nano-influencers are highly valued for their authenticity and engagement, often achieving higher ROI for brands targeting specific audiences.

Is TikTok Paying Dubai?

Yes, TikTok pays creators in Dubai through its Creator Fund and brand collaborations. However, TikTok earnings are influenced by several factors:

  1. TikTok Creator Fund: Pays creators based on video views, engagement, and follower count. Payouts in Dubai are competitive due to the region’s high engagement rates.

  2. Brand Collaborations: Dubai-based creators earn significantly from partnerships with global and regional brands in luxury, fashion, hospitality, and tech.

  3. Live Streaming Gifts: TikTok users can earn money through virtual gifts during live streams, which can be converted into cash.

Dubai’s luxury-driven market ensures that TikTok influencers have substantial earning opportunities, particularly in the lifestyle, travel, and beauty niches.

Where is the 1 Billion Followers Summit?

The 1 Billion Followers Summit takes place in Dubai, UAE, a city renowned for hosting world-class events and initiatives. The third edition of the summit (2025) is being held across three iconic venues:

  • Emirates Towers: A symbol of Dubai’s commitment to innovation.

  • Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC): A global business hub and center of creativity.

  • Museum of the Future: A landmark representing Dubai’s futuristic vision and technological advancements.

These locations collectively emphasize Dubai's role as a global hub for content creation and innovation.

Who is the Biggest Influencer in Dubai?

Dubai is home to numerous influential personalities across various niches, but some stand out for their massive impact:

  1. Huda Kattan (Huda Beauty): With over 50 million Instagram followers, she is one of the most prominent beauty influencers globally and has built a billion-dollar cosmetics brand.

  2. Mo Vlogs: Famous for luxury lifestyle and supercar content, with a large following on YouTube and Instagram.

  3. Anas Bukhash: Known for his inspirational interviews on his podcast ABTalks, featuring celebrities and thought leaders.

These influencers reflect Dubai’s diverse appeal in beauty, luxury, and intellectual content.

Which Celebrity Is Most Famous in Dubai?

Dubai frequently attracts global celebrities, but a few have a lasting presence:

  1. Cristiano Ronaldo: The football superstar is a frequent visitor, given his partnership with Dubai-based events and awards.

  2. Will Smith: Known for expressing admiration for Dubai’s innovation and hosting events in the city.

  3. Shah Rukh Khan: Bollywood’s King Khan is a global ambassador for Dubai Tourism, often featured in promotional campaigns.

These celebrities embody Dubai’s blend of sports, entertainment, and global appeal.

How Much Do Influencers Get Paid in Dubai?

Influencer earnings in Dubai depend on their follower count, engagement rate, and niche:

  1. Nano-Influencers (1K–10K followers): AED 500–1,500 per post.

  2. Micro-Influencers (10K–50K followers): AED 1,500–5,000 per post.

  3. Macro-Influencers (50K–500K followers): AED 5,000–15,000 per post.

  4. Mega-Influencers (500K+ followers): AED 15,000–100,000+ per post.

Luxury and high-end brand collaborations often pay more, as Dubai is a global hub for luxury tourism, fashion, and lifestyle industries.

How to Earn AED 1,000 in the UAE?

Earning AED 1,000 in the UAE is achievable through various methods:

  1. Content Creation: Write blogs, create social media content, or offer graphic design services.

  2. Tutoring: Offer academic or language lessons through platforms like Superprof or MyPrivateTutor.ae.

  1. Freelancing Websites: Earn via platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or Freelancer.

  2. Survey and Task Apps: Use apps like Toluna or YouGov to participate in surveys and earn rewards.

  1. E-Commerce: Sell handmade items or resell goods on Amazon UAE or Dubizzle.

How Much Does an Influencer with 1,000 Followers Make?

Influencers with 1,000 followers are considered nano-influencers, often working with niche audiences. On average, they can earn:

  • AED 50–150 per post for promoting small brands or local businesses.

  • They may also receive free products or services in exchange for collaborations.

Nano-influencers are highly valued for their authenticity and engagement, often achieving higher ROI for brands targeting specific audiences.

Is TikTok Paying Dubai?

Yes, TikTok pays creators in Dubai through its Creator Fund and brand collaborations. However, TikTok earnings are influenced by several factors:

  1. TikTok Creator Fund: Pays creators based on video views, engagement, and follower count. Payouts in Dubai are competitive due to the region’s high engagement rates.

  2. Brand Collaborations: Dubai-based creators earn significantly from partnerships with global and regional brands in luxury, fashion, hospitality, and tech.

  3. Live Streaming Gifts: TikTok users can earn money through virtual gifts during live streams, which can be converted into cash.

1. What is the 1 Billion Followers Summit about?

The 1 Billion Followers Summit is the world’s largest event dedicated to the content creator economy, organized by the UAE Government Media Office. The 2025 edition focuses on the theme “Content for Good” and aims to inspire creators to produce impactful content that promotes positive change, bridges cultural divides, and addresses global challenges.

  • Dates: January 11–13, 2025.

  • Venues: Emirates Towers, DIFC, and Museum of the Future, Dubai.

  • Scale: Over 15,000 attendees, 420 speakers, and global representation.

2. Who are the top speakers at the 1 Billion Followers Summit 2025?

The summit features a stellar lineup of global influencers, industry leaders, and visionaries, including:

  • Maye Musk: Model, entrepreneur, and mother of Elon Musk, sharing insights on resilience and parenting.

  • Naguib Sawiris: Egyptian billionaire, discussing innovation in media and telecom.

  • Ben Relles: AI strategist, exploring the role of AI in content creation.

  • Emma Harman (Whalar Group): Brand-talent collaborations in the creator economy.

  • Elise Swopes: Combining mobile creativity with technology to inspire content creators.

3. How many people are attending the 1 Billion Followers Summit?

The summit welcomes a diverse and massive audience:

  • 15,000 attendees from across the globe, including creators, entrepreneurs, and industry professionals.

  • 420 speakers sharing their expertise on various topics, from content monetization to AR/VR in storytelling.

  • Global representation: Participants from over 190 countries.

4. Where can I buy tickets for the 1 Billion Followers Summit?

Tickets for the summit can be purchased online through the official event website.

  • Ticket Types:

    • General Admission: Provides access to key sessions and workshops.

    • VIP Passes: Includes exclusive meet-and-greet opportunities, front-row seating, and special networking events.

  • Registration Deadline: Early bird discounts may apply for bookings before January 5, 2025.

5. What topics will be covered at the 1 Billion Followers Summit?

The summit covers a wide range of trending and future-focused topics, such as:

  • AI in Content Creation: Exploring how artificial intelligence is transforming workflows and engagement.

  • Monetizing Content: Strategies for creators to generate sustainable income.

  • AR/VR Tools: Immersive storytelling techniques for creators.

  • Building Communities: Leveraging digital platforms to foster strong, engaged audiences.

  • Combating Misinformation: Using content to promote factual, impactful storytelling.

6. How does the 1 Billion Followers Summit support creators?

The summit actively empowers content creators through initiatives like:

  • $1 Million Award: The largest prize globally for impactful content, recognizing creators who inspire change.

  • “Invest with Creators” Program: Provides 50 million AED in funding to startups and individuals with innovative content ideas.

  • Workshops and Panels: Over 340 sessions offering hands-on training and expert insights on content creation, branding, and monetization.

  • Networking Opportunities: Connect with CEOs, investors, and global influencers to collaborate and grow.

7. What makes the 1 Billion Followers Summit unique?

The summit stands out as a groundbreaking platform for several reasons:

  • Global Collaboration: Brings together major platforms like TikTok, Meta, LinkedIn, and YouTube for the first time in one event.

  • Massive Scale: With 15,000 attendees and 2.3 billion followers represented, it’s the largest creator economy event in the world.

  • Impactful Theme: Focuses on creating content that fosters positive societal change.

  • Innovation and Investment: Launches cutting-edge tools and supports startups through investment programs.

8. Who are the $1 million award finalists at the 1 Billion Followers Summit?

The five finalists competing for the $1 million award were selected via 3.3 million global votes:

  1. Mahmoud Zaiter (Palestine): Inspiring hope and resilience in Gaza while leading humanitarian efforts.

  2. Nasser Al Akeel (Saudi Arabia): Simplifies knowledge through engaging content on science and books.

  3. “Influencers for Lebanon” Initiative: A team of creators helping rebuild communities during crises.

  4. Simon Squibb (UK): Motivates individuals to achieve their dreams and supports social causes.

  5. Samuel Weidenhofer (Australia): Spreading positivity and hope through his content.

9. How can startups participate in the 1 Billion Followers Summit?

Startups can join the “Invest with Creators” Program, which offers:

  • Funding: Access to 50 million AED in support.

  • Mentorship: Guidance from global industry experts.

  • Networking: Opportunities to connect with influencers, investors, and platform representatives.

To participate, startups must submit applications showcasing their innovative content ideas. Applications are evaluated by a panel of experts.

10. How does Dubai benefit from hosting the 1 Billion Followers Summit?

Dubai’s hosting of the summit solidifies its position as a global hub for innovation and creativity. Key benefits include:

  • Economic Impact: Boosts tourism and drives investments in the $250 billion content economy.

  • Cultural Leadership: Promotes Dubai as a destination for global talent and visionary ideas.

  • Global Exposure: Showcases Dubai’s infrastructure and innovation to a worldwide audience.

Job Creation: Supports the growth of startups and creative industries in the region.

Find your dream home with us:

Off plan properties for sale in Dubai

Properties for sale on installment in Dubai

Buy Apartments in Dubai with easy payment plans

Apartments for sale in Safa Two

Ready to movea Villas for sale in Dubai

Villas for sale on installment in Dubai

Apartments for sale in business bay Dubai