UAE initiates first phase of decade-long Blue Visa system

Blue Visas are to be given to 20 leading figureheads in sustainability the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, and the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP) has announced.

The Ministry said that the leaders and innovators will receive them in the upcoming first phase. The announcement came during the World Governments Summit 2025, taking place in Dubai.

The Blue Visa is a 10-year residence visa designed for individuals who have made an exceptional contribution towards environment protection and sustainability, both inside and outside the UAE.

This visa is given to supporters of environmental action, including members of international organisations, international companies, members of associations and non-governmental organisations, global award winners, and distinguished activists and researchers in environmental work.

Sustainability advocates and experts interested in obtaining the UAE’s Blue Visa can apply directly to Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security, or through nomination by competent authorities in the UAE.

The activation of the initiative comes in continuation of the UAE's ongoing efforts in the field of sustainability. The first phase of the electronic system, provided by ICP allows for obtaining electronic approval through applications submitted by relevant government agencies in the sustainability sectors, in accordance with approved procedures on the Authority's website.

The Blue Visa is an extension of the Golden and Green Residencies, which were launched earlier.