The UAE has announced the launch of the global “100 Dreams” initiative, offering a total of $1 million in funding. The programme will award 100 selected content creators and entrepreneurs $10,000 each, equivalent to approximately Dh36,700, to help turn their ideas into sustainable businesses.

The initiative was unveiled in Dubai on Thursday, October 15, 2026, ahead of the fifth edition of the 1 Billion Followers Summit.

The “100 Dreams” programme is being launched in partnership with British entrepreneur and content creator Simon Squibb, with support from the UAE National Media Office.

The initiative aims to support people with ideas in content creation, digital media, entertainment, filmmaking, media technology and related innovative businesses who need funding, training or professional connections to bring them to life.

🔵 What support will selected participants receive?

In addition to the $10,000 grant, each of the 100 selected participants will receive six weeks of free business training and expert mentoring.

The course will be delivered in partnership with Simon Squibb and his team, covering topics including branding, sales, securing sponsorships, understanding social media algorithms and generating revenue from digital platforms.

Participants will also receive support to establish a company and obtain a business licence in the UAE, as well as assistance with the Golden Visa application process. However, Golden Visa approval remains subject to the relevant government authorities.

Travel to Dubai to attend the summit is also included in the support package.

🔵 Who can apply?

The initiative is open to people aged 18 and above from around the world and is not limited to UAE citizens or residents.

Applicants are not required to relocate permanently to Dubai, but they must be able to establish a company in the UAE, travel to Dubai and participate in the six-week programme.

Applications are scheduled to open on November 20, 2026. Interested applicants can currently join the waiting list through the initiative’s website.

🔵 The goal: Building major media companies

Alia Al Hammadi, Vice Chairperson of the UAE Government Media Office, stressed that the initiative is not solely intended to increase content creators’ income, but to help build sustainable businesses.

She expressed hope that within the next 10 years, one of the companies created through the initiative will achieve a valuation of more than $1 billion.

The fifth edition of the 1 Billion Followers Summit will be held in Dubai from January 8 to 10, 2027, under the theme “Content for Good”.