UAE-based content creators now have a direct path from influence to entrepreneurship with the launch of Amazon Creators Foundry, announced at the 1 Billion Followers Summit in Dubai.
What Is Amazon Creators Foundry?
The programme is a partnership between Creators HQ — the region's first dedicated hub for content creators — and Amazon Ads. It is designed to help eligible creators develop, launch, and scale their own product brands on Amazon.ae, with pathways to global markets beyond the UAE.
Announced during the fourth edition of the 1 Billion Followers Summit, held 9–11 January 2026 under the theme "Content for Good," the initiative reflects a growing shift in the creator economy from content monetisation to full-scale entrepreneurship.
What Creators Get
Through Amazon Creators Foundry, selected creators within the Creators HQ network receive end-to-end support:
- Training and mentorship covering product ideation, online retail fundamentals, brand building, digital marketing, and customer acquisition strategies - Access to Amazon's seller tools and infrastructure - Dedicated storefronts on Amazon.ae - Amazon Ads credits to increase product visibility and reach
Eligible creators may also expand beyond the UAE by joining Amazon's global selling programme, connecting their products with customers in international markets.
What the Leaders Said
Alia Al Hammadi, Vice Chairperson of the UAE Government Media Office and CEO of the 1 Billion Followers Summit, said the initiative reinforces the UAE's position as a global hub for the creator economy. She noted that empowering creators to build sustainable online businesses supports innovation while contributing to the country's growing digital economy.
Rayan Karaky, Managing Director of Amazon Ads for EMEA and Southeast Asia, said creators are uniquely positioned to build successful products because of their deep understanding of audience needs. He added that Amazon Creators Foundry helps turn those insights into scalable commercial ventures.
A Summit Built for Scale
The 1 Billion Followers Summit brought together more than 15,000 creators and over 500 speakers, representing a combined global audience of 3.5 billion followers — making it the world's largest gathering dedicated to the creator economy.
