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The UAE cabinet has unveiled a new initiative, offering a 10-year Blue Residency visa to individuals who have made significant contributions to environmental protection. This prestigious visa is also open to those working in the circular economy and related fields.
Announcement by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, announced this groundbreaking initiative during a Cabinet meeting held at Qasr Al Watan in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday.
Read Also: Dubai Gaming Visa: Dubai Launches Innovative Visa Program
Commitment to Sustainability in 2024
“In line with our national goal to make 2024 the Year of Sustainability, we have launched the ‘Blue Residency,’ a 10-year visa for those who have made exceptional efforts to safeguard the environment. This includes contributions to marine and land ecosystems, air quality, sustainability technologies, the circular economy, and other related areas. The sustainability of our economy is intertwined with the sustainability of our environment,” stated Sheikh Mohammed.
Eligibility Criteria for the Blue Residency Visa
The Blue Residency visa will be awarded to:
Members of International Organizations
International Company Members
Association and NGO Members
Global Award Winners
Distinguished Activists and Researchers in Environmental Work
Interested individuals can apply through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security, or via nominations by competent authorities.
Additional Visa Options in the UAE
The UAE also offers 10-year Golden Visas to:
- Investors
- Entrepreneurs
- Scientists
- Outstanding students and graduates
- Humanitarian pioneers
- Frontline heroes
Summary of Recent UAE Cabinet Decisions
The Cabinet meeting also resulted in several key decisions:
National Youth Agenda 2031
Approval of the National Youth Agenda 2031, focusing on the future development of the youth sector.
Higher Education Institution Classification
Approval of a national framework for the classification of higher education institutions.
Regulation of Marketing Calls
Regulation of marketing calls (cold calling) to protect consumer rights in the UAE.
Achievements in the Space Sector
Review of achievements and progress in the UAE space sector.
Committees for Fraud and Statistics
Establishment of the Supreme Committee for Combating Commercial Fraud and the National Committee of Statistics.
Artificial Intelligence and Digital Transactions
Restructuring of the UAE Council for Artificial Intelligence and Digital Transactions and the UAE Sustainable Aviation Fuel Committee.
Generative Artificial Intelligence Guidelines
Approval of guidelines for the use of generative artificial intelligence in the UAE government and creation of a CEO role for AI.
International Agreements
Ratification of an investment agreement with India and approval of a comprehensive economic partnership agreement with Korea.
Conclusion
The Blue Residency visa is more than just a permit; it’s a tribute to those dedicated to creating a sustainable and greener future. This initiative underscores the UAE’s commitment to environmental leadership and sets a global benchmark for environmental conservation efforts.