The UAE became the first country in the world to launch the UAE Blue Visa — a 10-year renewable residency programme designed to attract sustainability professionals and environmental champions from around the globe.
First Phase of the Blue Visa Rollout
The programme was unveiled at the World Governments Summit 2025, held in Dubai from February 11 to 13. The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, jointly with the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP), announced that the first phase would award Blue Visa permits to 20 sustainability innovators and thought leaders.
Dr Amna Bint Abdullah Al Dahak, UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment, said the visa enables the country to attract global sustainability talent as a cornerstone of its national green-economy strategy. Dr Sultan Al Jaber, COP28 President and Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, added that the initiative builds on "the legacy created by COP28" and underscores the UAE's commitment to leveraging technology and innovation for impactful environmental solutions.
Who Qualifies for the UAE Blue Visa?
The Blue Visa is open to individuals who have made exceptional contributions to environmental protection and sustainability, both inside and outside the UAE. Eligible applicants include:
- Environmental activists and researchers - Members of international organisations and NGOs - Global sustainability award winners - Corporate environmental protection specialists working for multinational companies - Professionals advancing land and marine conservation, air quality improvement, or sustainable technology
Unlike the Golden Visa, the Blue Visa does not require employer sponsorship, property ownership, or a large financial investment — it is purely merit-based.
How to Apply
Major General Suhail Saeed Al Khaili, Director General of ICP, confirmed that applications are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week through the ICP digital platform. Applicants can either apply directly via the ICP website or be nominated by a UAE government authority.
A Greener Vision for the UAE
The Blue Visa sits alongside the existing Golden and Green Residency programmes, forming a suite of long-term residency pathways that reflect the UAE's ambitions in environmental leadership and sustainable development. By offering decade-long residency to environmental champions, the UAE is investing in the human capital needed to drive its green economy forward — and cementing a legacy built on COP28, the UN climate change summit hosted in Dubai in 2023.
