The United Arab Emirates has approved a new ten-year Blue residency visa for individuals who have made exceptional efforts and contributions to protecting the environment.
Through a post on X released on May 15, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum revealed that those eligible for the ten-year visa could be concentrating their eco-efforts either on marine or land environmental protection, or the quality of the air, sustainability and its modern technologies, the circular economy, or other fields related to environmental protection, VisaGuide.World reports.
Authorities Facilitate Application Procedures for a Blue Residency Visa
Blue Residency will be granted to supporters of environmental action locally and in international organisations, global award winners, activists, and leading researchers in ecological fields
Those interested in the UAE Blue Residency are invited to submit their applications directly through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security services.
| The Blue Residency visa will be awarded to |
|---|
| Members of international organizations |
| International company members |
| Association and NGO members |
| Global award winners |
| Distinguished activists and researchers in environmental work |
The sustainability of our economy has become linked to the sustainability of our environment… and our national directions are clear and firm in this field.
The new residency scheme is part of initiatives the country has launched to mark 2024 as the year of sustainability. The sustainability drive was extended into 2024 after green themes dominated last year – when the country invited residents to join collective efforts to adopt sustainable practices.
The UAE typically issues residency visas that have a validity of two years. In 2019, the country announced a ten-year residency scheme called Golden Visas for investors, entrepreneurs, scientists, outstanding students and graduates, and humanitarian pioneers. The country announced a five-year residency called green visas for skilled professionals, freelancers, investors and entrepreneurs three years later.
UAE’s Golden Visa Program Introduced to Boost Economy Growth
Last month, VisaGuide reported that the UAE Golden Visa Program, which attracts internationals, underwent new changes in March of this year. As a result, authorities in the UAE planned to introduce a ten-year golden visa and five-year silver licenses.
In this regard, they said the new move aims to increase government revenue, ensure business continuity, and promote economic growth.
Following the new rules, internationals have the right to choose several platforms to do so, including the following:
- ae
- Emirates Red Crescent
- National Voluntary Program for Emergencies, Crises and Disasters
- Dubai Volunteer Center
- Sharjah Voluntary Centre
- Dubai Cares
- Social Contribution Authority (Ma’an)
In March 2024, the UAE also unfolded plans to grant long-term golden visas for businesses to attract a more significant number of wealthy internationals.