The new Blue Visa in Dubai, a 10-year residency visa, was introduced for individuals who have made significant contributions to sustainability, both within and outside the UAE. Just like other residency visas, the Blue visa is also designed to attract exceptional workers. This visa is granted to individuals promoting environmental protection programs, as well as members of international companies/organizations, global award winners, members of associations, activists, and researchers in environmental services. The government grants this visa to both local Emiratis and environmental promoters.
The most significant advantage of the 10-year residency visa in the UAE is that it does not require a sponsor to live in the country. The visa program will not only attract talent but also encourage UAE residents to extend their stay in the country. Interested sustainability contributors and experts can obtain the UAE Blue Visa by applying to the ICP or through nomination by the relevant authorities in the UAE. Discover everything about Blue Visa, including its requirements, application process, benefits, and its impact on the UAE’s economy.
What is a Blue Visa in Dubai?
The Blue Visa in the UAE is a 10-year residency visa for individuals who have made outstanding contributions to sustainability and the environment. The visa targets climate contributors, including scientists, entrepreneurs, researchers, and innovators in relevant fields. Since 2024 is the second consecutive year that Dubai is focusing on environmental protection and sustainability, the visa will help achieve its sustainability goals.
Who is Eligible for a Blue Visa Dubai?
The Blue Visa was launched in 2025 for Individuals contributing to environmental causes. According to the ICP, scientists, entrepreneurs, researchers, and inventors who have made exceptional contributions to green technology and environmental protection are eligible to apply.
What are the Steps to Apply for a Blue Visa Dubai?
Eligible individuals can submit their form through the UAE’s Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP). The acceptance or nomination depends on the competent government bodies if you promote environmental causes.
Submit Application Directly – Blue Visa Dubai
You can submit your blue visa application in the UAE directly to the government entity responsible for citizenship, customs, port security, and identity management.
Here are the steps,
- Open the smart ICP platform or mobile application and provide your ID and email address.
- Provide proof of contribution towards climate or environmental causes.
- Passport with a validity of 6 months.
- Pay your fee
- Submit your application.
- You will be notified of fee transactions via email.
Through Nomination – Blue Visa Dubai
Get nominations from recognized authorities in the UAE.
Recommendations – Blue Visa Dubai
Get recommendations from relevant organizations in the UAE.
Submit Required Documents – Blue Visa Dubai
You’ll need the following documents,
- Passport copy
- Proof of environmental or climate contribution.
- Recent photographs and identification details.
- Recommendation letters (if applicable)
Medical Examination
After submitting your application, you’ll need to go through a medical examination and a background check.
Visa Approval
After your application is approved, you will receive your blue visa for Dubai. You can then obtain your Emirates ID and residency stamp on your passport, which grants you a 10-year blue visa.
Stay Compliant
Ensure you stay compliant with the Blue Visa requirements and continue to work towards environmental causes to maintain your Blue Visa in Dubai.
What are the Benefits of a Blue Visa Dubai?
Blue visa offers a lot of advantages to the candidates, which include the following,
Work Flexibility
Unlike other work visas in the UAE, Blue Visa holders are not required to work for a specific company; they can change their job without needing to renew their visas. Highly qualified individuals seeking alternative employment options can take advantage of this opportunity.
Extended Stay
A blue visa allows you to stay in the country for up to five years. The extended stay helps foreigners to secure their jobs and plan for the future.
Sponsorship for Family
A Blue Visa holder can sponsor their Family, including their spouses and children. This advantage is welcomed by professionals seeking to make the UAE their new home.
Public Services Accessibility
Those with a valid Blue Visa are eligible to access health and education facilities just like UAE citizens. These services raise the living standard of foreign nationals.
What Jobs Could Lead to Blue Visas in Dubai?
The Blue Visa is offered to a diverse range of professionals, activists, and researchers in the fields of climate and sustainability. Here’s a brief breakdown of these categories,
Environmental Researchers & Scientists
Advanced degree holders and researchers in various climate-related fields, such as renewable energy and marine biology, may be eligible for blue visas in Dubai.
Sustainability Activists
Individuals advocating for waste reduction, renewable energy, and a circular economy may be eligible for a blue visa.
NGO & Environmental Professionals
Activists in NGOs and international organizations recognized for their environmental work are eligible.
Innovators
Corporate innovators who reduce waste, carbon emissions, or ecological damage can be considered for recognition.
Startups in Green Technology
Founders of green technology startups and those in the renewable energy sector may also qualify.
Award Winners
Global award winners and recognised individuals in sustainable energy may also be eligible for a blue visa.
Environmental Policy Makers
Policy makers for environmental and sustainable energy.
What are the Required Documents for a Blue Visa Dubai Application?
For a blue visa application in the UAE, you need to provide the following necessary documents,
Proof of Environmental Contribution
These can include project reports, research papers, awards, or certificates from recognized international organizations recognizing your work in climate and environmental sustainability.
Personal Identification Documentation
A valid copy of your passport and a recent coloured photograph
Recommendation Letters
Endorsement letters or nominations from environmental authorities (if applicable)
How Long is the Validity of a Blue Visa Dubai?
The validity of the Blue visa is 10 years, offering long-term stability to individuals working towards environmental stability.
How can Foreigners Apply for a Blue Visa Dubai from outside the UAE?
ICP offers a smart platform and mobile application where eligible individuals can submit their application. Here’s what you need,
- Provide your details in the application form.
- Upload the required documentation or certificates.
- Submit your fee.
- Get your transaction confirmation via email.
How Long Does it Take for a Blue Visa Application to Complete?
According to the ICP in the UAE, the application process takes seven minutes. Once your documents are submitted and verified, the services will be completed within one day.
What are the other Long-Term Visa Offers by the UAE?
Other than the blue visa, the UAE offers the following long-term visas,
Golden Visa
The Golden Visa is a 10-year residency visa offered to individuals in various categories, including real estate investors, health professionals, business owners, entrepreneurs, talented individuals in the arts and culture, pioneers in humanitarian work, directors, and athletes. You can contact AlRiyadu for more information regarding the UAE Golden Visa.
Green Visa
A green visa is a 5-year residency permit for entrepreneurs, independent workers, and skilled individuals, eliminating the need for a local sponsor. Additionally, eligible individuals include those who wish to launch, invest in, or join a company.
Multi-entry Visa
These visas are issued to tourists, visiting relatives, business travelers, or individuals with other purposes, and can have a validity of 30 days, 60 days, or up to 5 years.
Summary
The launch of the Blue Visa Dubai is a strategic move by the UAE government aimed at attracting highly skilled individuals from around the world. This program enables individuals to stay longer, utilize various services, and move freely within the community. The program will not only increase the country’s competitiveness but also support economic growth.
Contact Al Riyady for further assistance regarding blue visa, golden visa services, and more.
