The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment made this announcement together with the Federal Authority of Identity and Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security, that Phase 1 of the Blue Visa initiative in the UAE has been launched.
Environmental protection and sustainability champions shall be granted this type of visa.
Key Highlights of the Blue Visa Initiative
Official Announcement
- The Blue Visa proclaimed itself at the World Governments Summit 2025, which took place in Dubai from 11 to 13 February.
- This is a 10-year residence visa for sustainability professionals.
Eligibility and Recipients
The first phase will award the Blue Visa to 20 sustainability thought leaders and innovators. Eligible candidates include:
- Supporters of environmental action
- Members of international organizations and global companies
- Members of associations and NGOs
- Winners of various global sustainability award considerations
- Activists and researchers with a distinguished reputation in matters relating to the environment.
Application Process
Candidates who are interested can apply through:
- Direct application to the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security.
- Nominations from competent UAE authorities for any worthy contributions in sustainability.
Blue Visa Digital System
- The first phase of the project will introduce an electronic application system via the ICP.
- A government agency in the sustainability sector can submit an application through the official website of ICP following the procedures prescribed for it.
- Visa services will enable 24-hour access to the ICP website and its mobile application across the globe.
Extension of UAE’s Residency Programs
Blue visa, in line with the other residence programs namely the Golden Visa Residency Program and Green Residency , targets professionals and investors in various fields.
Government Statements on the Initiative
Minister of Climate Change and Environment Dr. Amna Bint Abdullah Al Dahak stated:
- The UAE’s commitment to become a global front-runner in sustainability is unwavering.
- The initiative responds to the call to host the best sustainability minds, innovators, and researchers.
- The program will be employing their expertise toward accomplishing far-reaching national sustainability objectives.
A 24/7 Blue Visa application processing service will be available from the ICP, Major General Suhail Saeed Al Khaili, the ICP Director General, said. The Authority has approved the terms and conditions under which the visa shall be granted.
UAE’s Commitment to Sustainability
- Much more than just a one-time measure, it’s an ongoing UAE sustainability and climate action effort.
- It consolidates the UAE strategy to entice highly skilled people who can contribute to the attainment of global and regional environmental objectives.
This venture will focus UAE as a leading centre for sustainability and will enable drawing big changes in the domain of innovation, partnership in the field of biodiversity conservation.
