UAE launches ‘Blue Residency Visa’ as ‘Year of Sustainability’ initiative continues
Reflecting its deepening focus on environmental protection and sustainability initiatives, the UAE has launched a ten-year ‘Blue Residency Visa’ for individuals making exceptional efforts and contributions to protect nature, be it marine, land or air.
HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, announced the visa in a post on social media platform X, noting: “The sustainability of our economy has become linked to the sustainability of our environment and our national directions in this area are clear.”
Eligible individuals have been invited to submit their applications through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security. In addition, relevant authorities can also nominate individuals for the long-term residency programme.
Insight into different residency visas granted by UAE
The standard residency visas in the UAE typically last for a couple of years. In 2019, the Gulf state introduced a 10-year residency programme, called Golden Visas, targeting investors, entrepreneurs, humanitarian leaders, scientists and exceptional students.
Three years later, the Emirates launched another residency option for citizens across the globe. The ‘Green Visas’ programme offers a 5-year validity period and are aimed at investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals and freelancers.
The ‘Blue Residency Visa’ system comes as the UAE continues the ‘Year of Sustainability’ throughout 2024. The sustainability campaign is an invitation to everyone living in the country to become a part of the collective effort to adopt sustainable practices.
Environmental consciousness and sustainable practices
The extended ‘Year of Sustainability’ builds upon the success of last year’s initiatives. It seeks to foster environmental consciousness and sustainable practices, in an effort to instill a sense of responsibility among the UAE’s diverse population.
The Emirates’ focus on environmental protection had never been this high. The nation hosted the biggest annual climate conference in November 2023, convening participants from different countries to make decisions on pressing challenges facing the global community.
The COP28 Summit achieved early success on its first day itself as participants agreed to operationalise the landmark Loss and Damage Fund to compensate vulnerable countries. In addition, the UAE Consensus is facilitating a smooth transition away from fossil fuels.
