As per the latest development, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) made major improvements to its long-term residency programs in an effort to draw in international talent and reaffirm its dedication to sustainability and professional quality. Two prominent programs, the Blue Residency Visa and the Golden Visa program, grant 10-year residency to people that support environmental conservation and important professions.
Blue Residency VisaIntroduced in May 2025, the 10-year Blue Residency Visa is designed for individuals who have demonstrated exceptional contributions to environmental preservation and sustainability. The UAE's extended "Year of Sustainability" aligns with this initiative, which shows the nation's dedication to building a more sustainable future.
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Eligibility criteria:Members of businesses and international organisations devoted to environmental causes.
Leaders of associations and members of NGOs actively participate in environmental projects.
winners of international honours for exceptional environmental action contributions.
Renowned sustainability-focused researchers and campaigners.
Application process:Applications can be submitted using the smart services platform or mobile application of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP).
Required documents include a valid passport (with at least six months' validity), proof of work and accomplishments in the environmental field, and a recent color photograph.
Applicants must pay the applicable fees and submit their application online.
Benefits:Long-term stability with a 10-year residency
No requirement for a local sponsor.
Ability to sponsor immediate family members.
Access to UAE's top-tier services, including healthcare and education.
Opportunities for collaboration on environmental projects and access to funding and resources.
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Expanded Golden Visa ProgramFive new categories have been added to the UAE's Golden Visa program, which was launched in 2019 and allows experts in a variety of areas to remain there for ten years. This calculated action seeks to increase the nation's competitiveness and innovation by luring and keeping international talent.
Newly added categories:Healthcare professionals, including nurses with over 15 years of service in Dubai Health.
Teachers and educators who have excelled academically at colleges, schools, and early childhood centres.
Digital content creators, filmmakers, and social media influencers.
E-sports and gaming professionals as part of the Dubai Programme for Gaming 2033.
Luxury yacht owners contributing to the maritime sector.
Application process:Qualified professionals can apply online without the need for a local sponsor.
Applicants will need to submit proof of their contributions and achievements in their respective fields.
The visa allows holders to live, work, and invest in the UAE, and they may also be able to sponsor their family members.
Benefits:Long-term residency and improved job stability.
Chances for career advancement and development.
Access to the strong services and infrastructure of the UAE.
Recognition and support from the UAE government for their contributions.
In a strategic effort to draw global talent and reinforce its commitment to sustainability and professional excellence, the UAE has rolled out the new Blue Residency Visa and expanded its Golden Visa program. These initiatives offer long-term residency to individuals making significant contributions in key professional sectors and environmental sustainability, positioning the UAE as a forward-looking nation dedicated to innovation, green development, and inclusive progress.
Blue Residency VisaIntroduced in May 2025, the 10-year Blue Residency Visa is designed for individuals who have demonstrated exceptional contributions to environmental preservation and sustainability. The UAE's extended "Year of Sustainability" aligns with this initiative, which shows the nation's dedication to building a more sustainable future.
Read more: Which tiger reserve matches your zodiac sign?
Eligibility criteria:Members of businesses and international organisations devoted to environmental causes.
Leaders of associations and members of NGOs actively participate in environmental projects.
winners of international honours for exceptional environmental action contributions.
Renowned sustainability-focused researchers and campaigners.
Application process:Applications can be submitted using the smart services platform or mobile application of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP).
Required documents include a valid passport (with at least six months' validity), proof of work and accomplishments in the environmental field, and a recent color photograph.
Applicants must pay the applicable fees and submit their application online.
Benefits:Long-term stability with a 10-year residency
No requirement for a local sponsor.
Ability to sponsor immediate family members.
Access to UAE's top-tier services, including healthcare and education.
Opportunities for collaboration on environmental projects and access to funding and resources.
Read more: 6 forest-hugging beaches for the ultimate cool escape
Expanded Golden Visa ProgramFive new categories have been added to the UAE's Golden Visa program, which was launched in 2019 and allows experts in a variety of areas to remain there for ten years. This calculated action seeks to increase the nation's competitiveness and innovation by luring and keeping international talent.
Newly added categories:Healthcare professionals, including nurses with over 15 years of service in Dubai Health.
Teachers and educators who have excelled academically at colleges, schools, and early childhood centres.
Digital content creators, filmmakers, and social media influencers.
E-sports and gaming professionals as part of the Dubai Programme for Gaming 2033.
Luxury yacht owners contributing to the maritime sector.
Application process:Qualified professionals can apply online without the need for a local sponsor.
Applicants will need to submit proof of their contributions and achievements in their respective fields.
The visa allows holders to live, work, and invest in the UAE, and they may also be able to sponsor their family members.
Benefits:Long-term residency and improved job stability.
Chances for career advancement and development.
Access to the strong services and infrastructure of the UAE.
Recognition and support from the UAE government for their contributions.
In a strategic effort to draw global talent and reinforce its commitment to sustainability and professional excellence, the UAE has rolled out the new Blue Residency Visa and expanded its Golden Visa program. These initiatives offer long-term residency to individuals making significant contributions in key professional sectors and environmental sustainability, positioning the UAE as a forward-looking nation dedicated to innovation, green development, and inclusive progress.
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