UAE Unveils New 10-Year Blue Residency Visa

The United Arab Emirates has introduced a 10-year Blue Residency visa for individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to environmental protection. The new residency scheme was unveiled during a Cabinet meeting by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

The Blue Residency Visa is the first long-term residency for individuals with exceptional contributions and efforts in the field of environment action and sustainability both inside and outside the UAE. Contributions made to environment protection, whether in marine life, land-based ecosystems, air quality, sustainability technologies, the circular economy, or related fields, will be considered for the visa. The main aim of the latest initiative is to amplify and maintain the UAE's efforts in sustainability.

وضمن مشاريع مجلس الوزراء لتنفيذ التوجهات الوطنية التي أعلنها رئيس الدولة حفظه الله بأن يكون العام 2024 عاماً للاستدامة .. اعتمدنا اليوم "الإقامة الزرقاء" … وهي إقامة طويلة الأمد لمدة ١٠ سنوات سيتم منحها للأفراد ذوي الإسهامات والجهود الاستثنائية في مجال حماية البيئة سواء البحرية… pic.twitter.com/c765IficS6

— HH Sheikh Mohammed (@HHShkMohd) May 15, 2024

It will specifically be granted to supporters of environmental action, including members of international organizations and companies, members of associations and non-governmental organizations, global award winners, and distinguished activists and researchers in environmental work from both Emirati nationals and responsible residents advocate of environmental protection. Eligible applicants can submit their applications directly through the services of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security or through nominations by competent authorities.