UAE Introduces Blue Visa: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has launched the first phase of the Blue Visa, a special 10-year residency permit for people working towards environmental sustainability. The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, along with the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security (ICP), announced this at the World Governments Summit 2025 in Dubai, which is taking place from February 11 to 13.
In this first phase, 20 experts and innovators in sustainability will get the Blue Visa. This visa is meant for people who have made a big impact on environmental protection, including international organization members, NGO workers, business leaders, award winners, and researchers. Interested individuals can apply online through ICP or be nominated by UAE authorities.
The Blue Visa is an addition to the UAE’s other long-term residency programs, like the Golden and Green Visas. This move is part of the country’s larger sustainability goals. The application process is fully online, allowing government agencies in the environmental sector to submit nominations through the ICP platform.
Dr. Amna Bint AbdullahAlDahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, said this visa shows the UAE’s strong commitment to sustainability. She said that the initiative aims to support environmental experts in achieving the country’s long-term goals.
Major General Suhail Saeed Al Khaili, Director-General of ICP, confirmed that people can apply for the Blue Visa anytime through the official website and mobile app.
Dubai’s New Visa for Indian Travellers
At the same time, Dubai has introduced a new five-year multiple-entry visa to make travel between India and the UAE easier. The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism said this move will help strengthen economic ties, boost tourism, and support business relations between the two regions.
Saudi Arabia Single-Entry Visas Limits
Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia has earlier announced a major visa policy change affecting travelers from 14 countries, including India, with effect from February 1, 2025. With this regulation, Saudi Arabia will issue only single-entry visas for travelers from these countries. This change affects tourism, business, and family visit visas. The previous one-year multiple-entry visa has been suspended indefinitely.
The rule applies to travelers from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Egypt, Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia Sudan, Ethiopia, Nigeria, Jordan, Iraq and Yemen.