Revealed: How UAE influencers make up to Dh100,000 in just one week

Dubai: Imagine you’re sitting in a cozy Dubai café, sipping a steaming cup of karak, while your friend scrolls through endless reels on their phone. They grumble about their 9-to-5 job, saying, “I could totally be an influencer.” But little do they know, behind that casual remark lies the billion-dirham question every aspiring content creator in the UAE is asking: TikTok or Instagram?

Let’s cut through the hype and get to the real figures. Recent data shows TikTok influencers in the UAE can earn anywhere from Dh700 to Dh70,000 per post. The average annual income for top creators is around Dh490,000, and that’s just in the early stages of the game.

Viral videos help creators hit the jackpot, especially since TikTok’s Creator Fund pays around 0.8 to Dh4 per 1,000 views—which might seem small, but when millions of views roll in, the cash adds up fast.

On the other hand, Instagram offers a different kind of earning. Instagram pays about Dh18 to 36 per 1,000 views, with some creators earning up to Dh73 per 1,000 views for sponsored content. The platform’s advertising system is well-established, giving creators more predictable and steady income—think brand deals, sponsored posts, and partnerships.

TikTok’s appeal is clear—short, punchy videos that can go viral overnight. In the UAE, TikTok’s Creator Fund is paying creators between Dh1.5 and Dh11 per 1,000 views. That may seem modest, but when a TikTok hits 10 million views, that’s around Dh15,000 in the bank.

Influencers like Aisha Al Farsi, a TikToker, have openly shared how viral videos have transformed their lives. “One viral dance challenge brought in over Dh100,000 in a week,” she says. “It’s about riding the wave and creating content that resonates with your audience.”

The Saudi influencer economy grew by over 32% in the first quarter of 2025, with TikTok leading the charge, and the UAE is quickly catching up. For creators who understand the platform’s fast-paced nature, the potential for big payouts is real.

While TikTok’s viral hits can make you rich overnight, Instagram offers stability. The platform’s mature advertising ecosystem means brands are willing to pay premium rates—especially for luxury, fashion, and lifestyle content that Dubai is famous for.

Social media ad spending in the UAE is projected to reach Dh1.65 billion in 2025, with Instagram snagging a big share of that pie. Creators like Lina Al Habshi have built careers on high-quality sponsored posts, earning upwards of Dh20,000 per campaign.

“Consistency is key,” Habshi explains. “Brands love working with creators who can deliver quality content regularly. It’s about building trust and long-term relationships.”

The UAE’s unique market offers massive opportunities. According to the Middle East Social Commerce Market Intelligence Report 2025, the social commerce industry is expected to hit Dh13.7 billion in 2025. Instagram Reels, combining TikTok’s short-video style with Instagram’s monetisation tools, is becoming a favourite among creators. Engagement rates on Reels are higher than traditional posts, opening doors for better brand deals.

“UAE audiences love authentic, engaging content,” says influencer Hassan Al Farsi. “If you master Reels, you’re in a sweet spot for both visibility and earnings.”

Here’s the truth—success isn’t about choosing TikTok or Instagram; it’s about how you approach content creation. Creators who treat their craft as a business are seeing their earnings grow by around 14% annually. They understand their audience, post consistently, and diversify their income streams.

“Don’t put all your eggs in one basket,” advises a beauty influencer Maya Jassim. “Use both platforms, repurpose your content, and build your community. That’s how the real money happens.”

Smart UAE creators aren’t loyal to just one platform—they dominate both. TikTok’s viral potential can bring quick fame and big payouts, while Instagram’s steady stream of brand collaborations offers long-term stability.

The UAE’s creator economy is just getting started, with advertising spend growing at double-digit rates. Whether you’re chasing TikTok’s wild ride or Instagram’s dependable climb, the secret is to treat content creation seriously—connect with your audience, keep posting, and stay consistent.

Thinking about joining the ranks of top UAE creators? Remember, it’s not just about the platform. It’s about your dedication, creativity, and willingness to treat content creation as a serious business. The opportunity is here—are you ready to grab it?