Creators HQ has partnered with YouTube to launch the first YouTube Academy in the Middle East and North Africa, marking a milestone for the region’s creator economy.
The initiative, unveiled in the UAE, aims to equip emerging and established content creators with advanced skills and resources to build sustainable careers on the platform.
The academy will provide tailored workshops, training programmes, and direct mentorship from YouTube experts, helping creators move beyond generic guidance and develop actionable strategies in content production, analytics, monetisation, and audience building. By fostering these capabilities, the programme seeks to elevate the quality and diversity of digital content across the region.
The collaboration aligns with the UAE’s vision to strengthen its role as a global hub for creativity and innovation.
Alia AlHammadi, Vice Chairperson of the UAE Government Media Office, said the academy would empower creators with the expertise needed to thrive while advancing the region’s content economy.
YouTube’s growth in the region underscores the project’s potential impact. In May 2024, the platform reached more than 20 million adults in Saudi Arabia and 7.5 million in the UAE. The number of channels generating seven-figure earnings has also surged, with double-digit growth recorded in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt.
Javid Aslanov, Head of YouTube MENA, said the partnership reflects YouTube’s commitment to empowering the next generation of storytellers.
“Creators in MENA are the future of entertainment and the heart of the creator economy,”
he said.
Future initiatives are already in development, including training on artificial intelligence in content creation and strategies to boost the global reach of Arabic content.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
