Lessons from Dubai.

The creator economy is constantly evolving and at Changer, we’re always tuned into what’s next.

One of the best places to see that change in motion is the 1 Billion Followers Summit.

If you’re not familiar, it’s one of the world’s biggest creator events, held in Dubai. Thousands of creators, entrepreneurs, investors, and platforms come together to explore where the industry is headed. It’s become a key global meeting point for the creator economy.

This year, the team behind the Summit hosted an exclusive, invite-only retreat with 36 creators and industry leaders to help shape the future of the event, and the industry, heading into 2026.

Changer Co-Founder Ant McCormack was invited to be part of it. Here are some reflections from his week.

Hey, Ant here!

I just got back from Dubai, where I joined an exclusive group of creators and industry leaders for the 1 Billion Followers Summit retreat. It was one of those rare moments where you get to zoom out and really take stock of what’s happening globally in the creator space.

Despite our different backgrounds, markets, and stages, we’re all solving for the same things. That was the big reminder.

A few takeaways that stuck with me.

1. Dubai is going all-in on creators
There’s serious momentum behind the creator economy here. Government backing, funding pipelines, new infrastructure, dedicated creator community spaces. Creators aren’t just being recognised, they’re being supported as real economic drivers. It’s a solid example of what happens when a system treats creators as key to the creator economy, not just talent.

2. Everyone’s wrestling with how to build long term success
Even top-tier creators like Khalid Al Ameri (one of the biggest in Dubai) are talking openly about the challenge of growing their business beyond uploading more content. What’s universal for creators is how you approach your content and business: shifting your mindset to think like a founder, using tools that free you from repetitive tasks, and building a circle of support around you.

3. Talent management is growing up
There’s a shift happening in how creators are supported behind the scenes. Managers like Gurpreet Singh are stepping in not just as negotiators, but as strategic partners, thinking long-term, building infrastructure, and helping creators make moves with intention. Less reactive, more resilient.

4. Collaboration is still the edge
What really hit home was the openness of our global creator economy community. No gatekeeping. Just creators and industry folks swapping stories, strategies, and challenges across borders. That’s the superpower of this space. It’s one of the key things that continues to give me the most optimism about where we’re all heading.

I left Dubai and the 1 Billion Followers Summit Retreat with these thoughts in mind for creators. Think beyond content. Build your systems. Find your peer community who get it. And back yourself for the long game.

Dubai reminded me just how global this movement really is and how much potential there still is to unlock in the creator economy.

The 1 Billion Followers Summit is on 9, 10, 11 January 2026 in Dubai.
Who's in? You can find out all the details here.

Cheers! Ant

If you're asking yourself these questions?

Then the  MBA for Creators is for you.

We've partnered with Tyler Chou to bring you this transformative program to help creators scale their revenue, sharpen their strategy, and build something that lasts.

Applications are open now for LA in September and New York in October.  

📍 Los Angeles - September 25–26
📍 New York City - October 2–3

Each city is limited to 25 spots

We can’t wait to see what you’ll build.
✌🏼 Team Changer