Blue Residency Visa: A New Initiative for Environmental Champions

Good news for those looking for long-term residency in Dubai! The UAE Cabinet has made a groundbreaking decision to introduce the 10-year Blue Residency visa. The government designed the scheme for those who have contributed tremendously to environmental protection either inside or outside the country. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, approved this new visa policy in a cabinet meeting that took place at Qasr Al Watan, Abu Dhabi.

Let’s explore the details of the Blue Residency Visa, its eligibility, the application process, and how the new policy aligns with the broader aim of celebrating 2024 as the year of sustainability.

Details About the Initiative

After approving the Blue Residency Visa system in the cabinet meeting, His Highness Sheikh Al Maktoum said, 

The sustainability of our economy has become linked to the sustainability of our environment.

This statement highlights the UAE's dedication to boosting economic growth through environmental preservation.

On this occasion, Dr. Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, UAE Special Envoy for Climate Change and COP28 President, states,

Building on the momentum of COP28, which concluded last December with the landmark UAE Consensus, this initiative further cements the UAE’s role as a global leader in sustainability, environmental stewardship, and nature conservation.

Along with the Blue Visa initiative, the cabinet also approved the adoption of the National Youth Agenda until 2031. The agenda's goal is to empower young individuals economically, strengthen their national identity, foster their scientific capabilities, increase their social impact, and engage them as ambassadors for the nation.

How do I get the Blue Residency visa?

Before understanding the process of application, find out who can apply for the new visa. Here is the list of individuals who are eligible to apply for the 10-year Blue Residency visa:

• Those who advocate environmental action, both locally and internationally
• Members of associations and non-governmental organizations promoting environmental welfare
• Individuals who received global awards for their contribution to environmental conservation
• Representatives of international companies contributing positively to sustainability.
• Activists and researchers dedicated to environmental efforts, encompassing Emirati nationals and conscientious residents, promoting environmental stewardship

Note that efforts to enhance air quality and promote sustainable technologies can also get the UAE Blue Visa. The authorities facilitating those interested in the Blue Residency visa are the Federal Authority for Identity, Port Security, Citizenship, and Customs. Relevant authorities can also nominate deserving candidates for long-term residency.

2024: A Year Dedicated to Sustainability

The new residency scheme is a commendable initiative that aligns with the country's aim to commemorate 2024 as the 2nd consecutive year dedicated to sustainability. The Dubai government has been proactive in launching a series of sustainability initiatives in recent years that aim to transform the emirate into a model for environmental stewardship and sustainable urban development. Some of these initiatives include Dubai Can, Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, and the Clean Energy Strategy.

Other Types of Residency Visas

The UAE offers different types of residency visas to entrepreneurs, investors, and extraordinary talented individuals. These visa types include a two-year residency visa, a Golden Visa, and a Green Visa. The Golden Visa offers a 10-year residency scheme for investors, entrepreneurs, scientists, outstanding students and graduates, and humanitarian pioneers, while the Green Visa offers 5 years of residency to skilled professionals, freelancers, investors, and entrepreneurs.

The Blue Residency represents the latest evolution in the UAE's progressive visa schemes, underscoring the nation's commitment to environmental sustainability and recognizing those making significant contributions to this critical cause. As the world faces growing environmental challenges, initiatives like the Blue Residency are essential in fostering a global community dedicated to sustainable development and environmental protection.

Residency visas in the UAE typically have a duration of two years. However, in 2019, the nation unveiled the Golden Visas program, offering a decade-long residency option to investors, entrepreneurs, scientists, exceptional students and graduates, and humanitarian leaders, among others. Subsequently, three years later, the UAE introduced Green Visas, providing a five-year residency solution tailored to skilled professionals, freelancers, investors, and entrepreneurs.