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The United Arab Emirates remains committed to bringing a revolution through sustainability projects and initiatives. UAE’s sustainability efforts stem from a long-term vision of creating a sustainable future for the UAE and the rest of the world. Furthering these goals, the government has introduced yet another groundbreaking initiative: the Blue Visa.
The UAE Blue Visa is a long-term residency program meant for specialists in the fields of environmental conservation and sustainability. It’s the government’s heartfelt way to show appreciation for those who dedicate themselves to caring for Mother Earth.
In May 2024, a cabinet meeting was held, led by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, during which the first official announcement was made regarding the approval of a 10-year residency, the Blue Visa program.
The decision was taken in alignment with the country’s long-term goals of positioning the UAE as a leader in sustainability for the future.
The UAE Blue Visa is a 10-year residency visa introduced for individuals who have made significant contributions and efforts towards environmental protection and sustainability. The visa covers sustainability efforts both inside and outside the UAE.
“The sustainability of our economy has become linked to the sustainability of our environment,” is a simple yet powerful statement made by His Highness during the Cabinet meeting of 2024, which is a testament to the UAE’s respect for green initiatives.
The Blue Visa is granted to supporters of environmental action, those who go the extra mile to save our nature. It includes:
During the World Government Summit 2025 in Dubai, which was held from February 11 to 13, the first phase of the Blue Visa system was finally launched by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MoCCAE) in partnership with the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports (ICP). During this phase, twenty (20) sustainability experts will be receiving the visa.
Minister of Climate Change and Environment, Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, assured the UAE’s commitment to being a global sustainability leader, saying, “This initiative aims to leverage their (sustainability experts) contributions to achieve ambitious national goals and build a sustainable future for the people of the UAE and the world”.
In addition to being nominated by the relevant authorities, eligible individuals can apply directly through ICP. There are two methods:
Direct application: The application process is fully electronic and available 24/7 visa the ICP website or the mobile app.
Nomination: The government agencies in the sustainability sector can nominate eligible individuals.
The ICP smart services offers an easy-to-use portal for UAE blue visa application:
Authorities will access the authenticity of application, and upon approval, applicants will receive blue visa.
There are many benefits that holders of Blue Visa in UAE can enjoy:
The launch of the Blue Residency for contributions to protect the environment is remarkable, not just at the national but global level. It aims to attract the best minds, the world global environmental leaders, to contribute to the UAE’s sustainable economic and social development.
The initiative also promotes green innovation, advanced technology and artificial intelligence that create impactful solutions and reduce the environmental footprint.
This program will elevate the status of UAE as global hub of innovation and a leader in energy and environmental stability. Overall, its goal is to leave a better place to live for humanity and the future.
UAE’s efforts towards a sustainable future achieved another milestone with the introduction of the Blue Visa. This 10-year long-term residency offered to eligible individuals is another example of the UAE’s commitment to a greener environment.
Those who are eligible gain more than just a residency permit, they gain access to the technological, innovative and sustainability movements shaping the nation. They can live comfortably in the UAE and work towards the betterment of the environment without any interruptions.
Looking to make Dubai your hub for sustainable business? We ensure it is a decision that will change your future. Let us at Dubiz Business Setup help you start your dream business setup in the UAE. From the necessary licenses to business bank accounts and additional tax support, our experts can take care of all your major concerns.
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To apply for blue visa through ICP, you can expect to pay around AED 250* in total. Please check ICP’s website for latest information.
When making application for blue residency in UAE, you would need to submit documents including:
Note: Check with ICP for latest requirements.
The blue visa UAE offers a generous validity of ten (10) years.
Those with exceptional contributions in environment both within and outside UAE can apply for blue visa. It includes members of international organizations, international companies, members of associations and NGOs, and activities researchers in environmental field.
The other types of long-term residence visas in UAE include golden visa (having 10 years validity) and green visa (having 5 years validity).
The Blue Visa aims to attract the best minds in the world for the conservation of the environment and to contribute to the nation’s sustainable economic and social development.
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