UAE Blue Visa – A complete guide
The UAE government, in recent years, have announced multiple visa programmers for individuals who contribute positively in the growth of the country. One of the more popular initiatives amongst expats is the Blue Visa; a 10-year residency for people who have made “exceptional contributions” in protecting the UAE’s environment. Here are all the details about UAE Blue Visa service.
ALL ABOUT UAE BLUE VISA
This initiative was announced after a Cabinet meeting under the leadership of H. H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and the Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. It is in line with the UAE’s strategic goals of making the country more sustainable.
This comes after the UAE had introduced golden visas offering 10-year residency.
UAE BLUE VISA ELIGIBILITY
As per the official statement by WAM, Blue Card Residence Permit or Blue Visa will be issued to individuals who have made significant contributions to environmental protection and sustainability. This would include people who have worked in protecting the environment, both marine and land. Similarly, work done to improve air quality and enhance sustainable technology will also be eligible.
Emiratis or residents who are members of international organisations or companies, members of associations and non-governmental entities, global award winners and distinguished activists and researchers in environmental work can apply.
Relevant authorities of each emirate can also nominate individuals for the UAE Blue Visa.
UAE Blue Visa documents required
Here is a list of UAE Blue Visa documents required:
- Passport Copy
- Project impact reports
- Evidence of work and accomplishments in environmental fields
- Certificates or awards related to environmental sustainability
- Letters of recommendation from recognised environmental organisations
- CV with your contributions to environmental protection
HOW TO APPLY FOR BLUE VISA UAE?
Interested individuals can apply via the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship. Moreover, competent authorities of the state can also nominate individuals based on their endeavours.
UAE Blue Visa application process is straightforward.
- Go to Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship website.
- Find services: Blue Residence – Fields of Environment, Sustainability, and Climate Change – Issue new visa
- Fill in personal information
- Select applicant category (Influencers, innovators, investors or researchers).
- Fill in nomination information
- Attach relevant documents
- Add address and submit
Please note that applicants who are applying from outside the UAE must apply for 6-month multi-entry visa first.
WHAT IS THE UAE BLUE VISA FEES?
As per reports, UAE Blue Visa fees for nomination is AED 350. Other fees and charges may apply depending on your individual visas.
WHAT ARE THEY SAYING?
Dr Sultan Al Jaber, COP28 President and Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, stated that Blue Residency Visa will help attract global leaders.
“The blue residency visa aims to attract global environmental leaders to contribute to the UAE’s sustainable economic and social development. It underscores the nation’s dedication to leveraging advanced technologies and artificial intelligence to create impactful solutions.
“With a forward-thinking approach, these solutions will address climate challenges and transform them into opportunities for a brighter future for humanity and our planet,” he added.
“The conference was a paradigm shift, showcasing the UAE’s unwavering commitment to multilateralism, international co-operation and developing a united global approach to the challenges of climate change.”
“This visa will build on that good work and will help further establish the UAE as a front-runner in the development of technologies, such as artificial intelligence, that can help address climate change,” he said.
Dr. Amna Al Shamsi, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, stressed that this initiative will be a positive step towards achieving a more sustainable future.
“The Blue Residency will have a major role in attracting talents in the field including innovators, and climate champions from all over the world, who will contribute to the advancement of the UAE’s work in fostering a sustainable future for all.”
FAQs
WHAT ROLE DOES THE MINISTRY OF CLIMATE CHANGE AND ENVIRONMENT IN THE UAE PLAY?
Read our guide about the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment in the UAE, which sheds light on its functions and long term strategy.
WHERE CAN I READ MORE ABOUT DUBAI VISAS?
Go through our explainer about Dubai visas to look at the different options available to you.
WHAT ARE THE CONDITIONS FOR AN INVESTOR VISA IN THE UAE?
You can read about all UAE investor visa types in our guide.
That is all for now about the UAE Blue Visa. If you are someone who has done extensive work in enhancing sustainability, this might be your chance to benefit and build a life in the country whilst pushing for planet-friendly solutions and ideas.
