UAE launches 1st phase of 10-year-long Blue Visa

Gulf Today, Staff Reporter

The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security have announced the details of activating the first phase of the Blue Residency System in the UAE.

This phase represents the first long-term residency (10 years) tailored to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional contributions and efforts in the domain of environmental protection, sustainability, clean and renewable energy from both domestic and international sources.

The Ministry said that 20 thought leaders and innovators in the field of sustainability will be granted the Blue Residency within this phase.

This was part of a programme of events at the World Governments Summit 2025, which is taking place in Dubai from Feb.11-Feb.13, 2025.

Dr Amna Bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, stated that the UAE is committed to consolidating its standing as a global hub of sustainability through the implementation of innovative initiatives and projects. She further noted that the blue residency symbolises the prudent vision of the wise leadership to attract minds, innovators and exceptional achievements in the field of climate change and sustainability within the country and benefit from these contributions to achieve ambitious goals and create a sustainable future for the people of the country and all the peoples of the world.

Major General Suhail Saeed Al Khaili, Director General of the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security, has stated that the Authority will provide the Blue Residence service to the designated groups on a 24-hour basis. This service will be accessible via the Authority's website and smartphone application, and will be subject to the terms and conditions that have been approved. The objective of this initiative is to ensure that the designated groups benefit fully from the service, and to achieve the strategic objectives of launching the Blue Residence.

There are four groups of people who can get the blue residency in the UAE. The first group is for "distinguished influencers who have made outstanding contributions, shown exceptional effort, and had a really positive impact in the environment, climate change, sustainability, and clean and renewable energy".

The second category is for "scientists and researchers who have achieved a lot and have an impact all over the world in the areas of the environment, climate change, sustainability, and clean and renewable energy." To be included in this category, you need to be nominated and approved by the "Emirates Scientists Council".

The third category encompasses "investors and entrepreneurs in the fields of environment, climate change, sustainability, clean and renewable energy.

The fourth category includes "elite specialists working in governmental and private environmental institutions within the country.