Blue Visa: UAE launches 10-year residency for conservation experts

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has unveiled the Blue Visa, a 10-year residency permit, for foreign nationals who have made substantial contributions to environmental conservation.

This was announced during the World Governments Summit 2025 on Tuesday.

These individuals must have made significant contributions to the environment both within the UAE and globally.

Environmental protection experts are those involved in safeguarding the natural environment to conserve natural resources and preserve the existing environment, and, where feasible, to repair negative trends.

This new visa is for investors, entrepreneurs, and skilled professionals who align with the UAE’s commitment to sustainability, which has been a key focus throughout 2024.

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It offers exclusive benefits to global environmental leaders.

Dr. Amna Bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, stated that the Blue Visa reinforces the UAE’s position as a global leader in sustainability.

She said: “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.”

With the introduction of the first phase of its electronic system, applicants can obtain electronic approval through submissions made by relevant government agencies within the sustainability sectors, as they follow procedures outlined on the International Conference on Protective Structures (ICP) website.

Application requirements vary based on the applicant’s category and credentials. However, all interested individuals must provide supporting documents showcasing their contributions and achievements in sustainability, climate change, and environmental protection.

Sustainability advocates and experts seeking the UAE’s Blue Visa can apply directly to the ICP or through nomination by competent authorities in the UAE. Applicants must first submit a nomination request or be nominated by a competent authority, which serves as an initial application approval.

Once nomination approval is granted, applicants can proceed with their application. Current UAE residents must update their visa status.

The application process requires personal details such as full name, contact information, category, and nomination request number. Additional details include nationality, occupation, date of birth, passport information, faith, and address.

Applicants outside the UAE must first secure a six-month multiple-entry visa to complete the residency visa procedure. The fee for a nomination request is Dhs350.

The ICP offers round-the-clock access to the Blue Visa service for individuals who are eligible through its website and mobile application, once the terms and conditions are adhered to.

Experts involved in environmental sustainability who are interested in obtaining the UAE’s Blue visa can apply directly to Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security.