The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has officially launched its highly anticipated Blue Visa program, aiming to honor sustainability leaders and innovators at the World Governments Summit 2025. This 10-year residency visa is set to be awarded to 20 distinguished individuals who have made significant contributions to environmental protection both within and outside the UAE.
The Blue Visa, which was announced during the summit, reinforces the UAE's commitment to becoming a global hub for sustainability and environmental innovation. Dr. Amna Bint Abdullah Al Dahak, the Minister of Climate Change and Environment, expressed the initiative's importance, stating, "This initiative aims to leverage their contributions to achieve ambitious national goals and build a sustainable future for the people of the UAE and the world," as reported by Emirates News Agency WAM.
This new residency visa is specially designated for sustainability thought leaders, including members of international organizations, corporate representatives, and individuals from non-governmental organizations. It also includes activists and researchers who have actively contributed to environmental action, setting it apart from previous residency programs like the Golden and Green Visas.
Initially, the program will grant the Blue Visa to 20 individuals recognized for their outstanding achievements and dedication to environmental causes. Applications for the visa can be submitted directly through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security (ICP), or through nomination by UAE authorities, making it accessible for eligible sustainability advocates globally.
Major General Suhail Saeed Al Khaili, Director-General of ICP, confirmed the visa service will operate 24/7, allowing potential applicants to access the application process conveniently through the authority's website and mobile application. This accessibility is part of the broader efforts to streamline application processes across the UAE, ensuring adequate participation from sustainability advocates around the world.
The introduction of the Blue Visa is part of the UAE’s strategic plan to promote sustainable living and innovation, aligning with past residency programs. The Golden Visa, launched in 2019, targets investors and high-achieving individuals, followed by the Green Visa introduced in 2022, aimed at skilled professionals, freelancers, and entrepreneurs.
With environmental awareness becoming increasingly pivotal for global development, the Blue Visa is seen as another step for the UAE to strengthen its leadership role in global sustainability initiatives. This initiative reflects the country's readiness to cultivate and support professionals who contribute to tackling climate change.
Interested candidates must demonstrate their contributions to sustainability and provide supporting documents along with their applications. The fee for submitting nomination requests is set at Dhs350. For applications from outside the UAE, individuals will need to first secure a six-month multiple-entry visa before applying for the residency visa.
Overall, the launch of the Blue Visa symbolizes the UAE's proactive approach to building and fostering a community focused on environmental protection and sustainability, bridging local efforts with global environmental goals. It marks another milestone as the UAE continues to push forward its agenda for sustainability, laying solid foundations for future initiatives.
With 2024 planned as another year of sustainability efforts, this new visa not only rewards selected individuals but also inspires global action, creating pathways for leaders and innovators to collaborate and effect positive change. The Blue Visa is more than just residency; it's about nurturing leaders who can help pave the way for sustainable practices worldwide.