The United Arab Emirates has introduced a 180-day multiple-entry permit for expatriates applying for the prestigious Blue Residency visa — a 10-year residency program aimed at honoring individuals who have made exceptional contributions to environmental sustainability and climate action.
The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) announced the new initiative, which allows eligible individuals from outside the UAE to enter the country and complete all required procedures for obtaining the long-term Blue Residency.
The move is part of the UAE’s ongoing efforts to solidify its role as a global leader in environmental innovation and climate responsibility.
Described as the country’s first long-term residency specifically dedicated to environmental champions, the Blue Residency visa is open to individuals with significant achievements in environmental conservation, clean and renewable energy, and sustainability — both within the UAE and internationally.
According to the ICP, the visa is available to a broad range of candidates, including:
-
Influential individuals with a notable positive impact in climate-related fields
-
Scientists and researchers approved by the UAE Council of Scientists
-
Investors and entrepreneurs in environmental sectors
-
Inventors, innovators, and elite professionals working in government or private environmental institutions
Applicants can obtain the 180-day entry permit through the ICP’s official website or the UAEICP mobile application. The streamlined process consists of five steps and takes approximately seven minutes to complete.
Required documents include a valid passport with at least six months’ validity, a personal photo, proof of eligibility, and payment of the relevant fees. Once submitted, the service is typically processed within one working day, pending document verification.
This multiple-entry permit is modeled after a similar initiative offered to Golden Visa applicants, which allowed a six-month window — extendable for another six months — to finalize procedures for their 10-year residency.
The launch of the entry permit marks a significant expansion of the Blue Residency initiative, which was first unveiled during the World Government Summit in February 2023. At the time, 20 prominent individuals in the field of sustainability were awarded the Blue Residency in recognition of their efforts and impact.
The initiative is part of the UAE’s broader strategy to attract and retain top global talent in environmental sectors, aligning with its ambitious climate action goals.
It builds on the foundation of the country’s long-term visa programs — including the Golden and Green visas — which have helped position the UAE as a hub for innovation, scientific research, and sustainable development.
Officials say the Blue Residency is more than a visa — it is a statement of intent. By offering long-term residency to pioneers in climate and environmental work, the UAE hopes to foster a thriving ecosystem of change-makers who can contribute to global environmental solutions from within the Emirates.
Interested candidates are encouraged to begin their application through the ICP’s digital platforms. The newly introduced 180-day permit ensures applicants have ample time to complete all necessary formalities and start their journey toward becoming part of the UAE’s growing community of environmental leaders.