UAE introduces 10-year 'Blue Residency Visa' for environmental protection advocates

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has unveiled a new long-term residency program called ‘Blue Residency,’ offering 10-year visas to individuals recognized for their contributions to environmental protection and sustainability efforts both within and beyond the UAE.

The UAE introduced this residency scheme as part of its initiatives to designate 2024 as the Year of Sustainability, following a year focused on environmental themes that encouraged residents to engage in sustainable practices.

About the Blue Residency Program: The Blue Residency will be granted to advocates of environmental initiatives, including members of international firms, organizations, and NGOs; recipients of global awards; and notable activists and researchers dedicated to environmental causes. Eligible candidates can apply via the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security, and relevant entities can also nominate individuals for this long-term residency.

Statements on the Program: Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, stated, "The sustainability of our economy has become linked to the sustainability of our environment."

David Mackenzie, GMD of the recruitment agency Mackenzie Jones, praised the UAE’s 10-year visa program for its success, noting that it allows residents to live without company sponsorship, providing significant freedom.

Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, Cop28 President and Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, called the Blue Residency visa groundbreaking. He emphasized its role in attracting global environmental leaders to contribute to the UAE’s sustainable development and highlighted the nation’s commitment to leveraging advanced technologies and artificial intelligence to address climate challenges and create opportunities for a brighter future.

Dr. Al Jaber also noted that the Blue Visa aligns with the legacy of the Cop28 conference, which showcased the UAE’s commitment to multilateralism, international cooperation, and a united global approach to climate change challenges. The visa aims to establish the UAE as a leader in developing technologies, such as artificial intelligence, that can help address climate change.

Previous Visa Programs in the UAE: In 2019, the UAE introduced the Golden Visas, a 10-year residency program for investors, entrepreneurs, scientists, exceptional students, and pioneers in humanitarian fields. Three years later, the country launched the Green Visas, a five-year residency program targeting skilled professionals, freelancers, investors, and entrepreneurs.

Source: Naira Metrics

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