UAE Blue Visa Requirements 2026: Complete Eligibility Guide

Everything you need to know about qualifying for the UAE’s 10-year environmental Blue Visa — eligibility categories, sustainability criteria, application process, and costs.

Quick Answer: Who Qualifies for the UAE Blue Visa in 2026? The UAE Blue Visa is a 10-year, renewable residence permit for individuals who have made exceptional contributions to environmental protection and sustainability. Launched at the World Government Summit 2025, eligibility extends to conservationists protecting ecosystems and endangered species, sustainability advocates in renewable energy and circular economy, environmental researchers developing ecological solutions, recipients of global environmental awards, financial supporters contributing AED 1 million+ to ecological causes, academics with master’s or doctoral degrees in environmental sciences, and investors with AED 2 million+ in UAE ecological projects. Applications are processed through the ICP Smart Services portal with a nomination fee of AED 350.

Introduction to the UAE Blue Visa

The UAE Blue Visa represents the Emirates’ most ambitious immigration initiative aligned with global environmental objectives. First announced in May 2024 and officially launched at the World Government Summit in February 2025, this 10-year residence permit is specifically designed for individuals who have made exceptional contributions to environmental protection, sustainability, and climate action.

The Blue Visa offers long-term residence, family sponsorship, and business ownership opportunities, empowering you to build a lasting presence in the UAE for your environmental work.

Administered by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP), the Blue Visa application process involves submitting required documentation through the ICP Smart Services portal. Clear instructions on steps and fees, including the AED 350 nomination fee, help readers understand how to proceed confidently.

Blue Visa Background: UAE Net Zero 2050 and COP28

The Blue Visa emerged from the UAE’s comprehensive climate strategy, announced in October 2021, which commits the nation to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. This makes the UAE the first Middle Eastern and North African country to announce such a commitment. The strategy involves investments totaling more than AED 600 billion in clean and renewable energy through 2050.

COP28, the 28th United Nations Climate Change Conference held in Dubai, further accelerated the UAE’s environmental initiatives. The conference resulted in the UAE Consensus, a landmark agreement that addresses the fossil fuel transition, climate finance, and adaptation measures. The Blue Visa programme directly supports the implementation of these commitments by building a resident community of environmental expertise.

Blue Visa vs Golden Visa: Key Differences

While both the Blue Visa and Golden Visa offer 10-year residence without employer sponsorship, they target distinct applicant profiles and serve different strategic objectives.

Blue Visa Eligibility Categories

The UAE Blue Visa encompasses seven distinct eligibility pathways, each designed to attract specific environmental expertise to the Emirates. Applicants must demonstrate exceptional contributions in at least one category.

Conservationist Requirements

The conservationist pathway targets individuals actively engaged in protecting marine life, terrestrial ecosystems, and endangered species. This category recognizes hands-on conservation work rather than purely academic contributions.

Eligible Conservation Activities

• Marine ecosystem protection and coral reef restoration
• Endangered species conservation and breeding programmes
• Mangrove and wetland preservation initiatives
• Desert ecosystem rehabilitation projects
• Wildlife habitat protection and management
• Anti-poaching and wildlife trafficking prevention
• Biodiversity monitoring and documentation
• Native species reintroduction programmes

Required documentation for conservationists:

• Portfolio documenting conservation projects (minimum 5 years of work)
• Letters of recognition from environmental organizations
• Media coverage or publications featuring conservation efforts
• Partnerships with recognized conservation bodies (WWF, IUCN, etc.)
• Measurable outcomes demonstrating environmental impact
• Recommendation letter from the Ministry of Climate Change or equivalent authority
• Passport with a minimum of 6 months’ validity
• Passport-sized photographs with a white background

Sustainability Advocate Requirements

Sustainability advocates encompass professionals working in renewable energy, waste reduction, circular economy, and sustainable business practices. This category targets individuals implementing practical solutions to environmental challenges.

Required documentation for sustainability advocates:

• Professional CV highlighting sustainability experience
• Project portfolio with measurable environmental outcomes
• Industry certifications (LEED AP, GRI, ISO 14001, etc.)
• Letters from organizations confirming sustainability impact
• Publications, presentations, or media coverage of work
• Quantified environmental benefits (emissions reduced, energy saved, waste diverted)

Environmental Researcher Requirements

The environmental researcher pathway recognizes scientists and academics developing solutions to ecological challenges. This category requires demonstrated research output with practical applications to environmental problems.

Priority Research Areas

• Climate change mitigation and adaptation
• Renewable energy technology and storage
• Water desalination and conservation
• Air quality and pollution control
• Marine and terrestrial ecology
• Sustainable agriculture and food security
• Waste management and recycling technology
• Carbon capture and sequestration
• Environmental toxicology and remediation
• Biodiversity and ecosystem services

Required documentation for researchers:

• Doctoral degree in environmental science or related field
• Publication record in peer-reviewed journals (minimum 10 papers)
• Research affiliation with a recognized institution
• Grant funding history demonstrating research competitiveness
• Patents or technology transfer agreements (if applicable)
• Conference presentations and keynote invitations
• Recommendation letters from academic peers

Environmental Award Recipients

Recipients of recognized environmental awards qualify for the Blue Visa through demonstrated excellence in sustainability or conservation. Awards must be from credible organizations with established selection processes.

Required documentation for award recipients:

• Official award certificate or trophy documentation
• Letter from the awarding organization confirming recipient status
• Public announcement or press release of the award
• Description of award criteria and selection process
• Documentation of an award-winning project or achievement

Financial Supporter Requirements

The financial supporter pathway recognizes individuals who have made substantial monetary contributions to environmental causes. The minimum contribution threshold is AED 1 million to qualifying ecological initiatives.

Required documentation for financial supporters:

• Bank statements or transfer records showing the contribution
• Receipt from the receiving organization
• Letter from the recipient confirming the contribution and the environmental purpose
• Registration documents of the recipient organization
• Description of ecological programmes supported
• Cumulative contribution record (if multiple donations)

Academic Expert Requirements

Academic experts holding advanced degrees in environmental disciplines qualify for the Blue Visa based on educational credentials. This pathway requires a minimum of a master’s degree, with doctoral qualifications preferred.

Required documentation for academic experts:

• Degree certificate attested by the UAE Embassy and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
• Academic transcripts showing coursework in environmental subjects
• Thesis or dissertation abstract demonstrating environmental focus
• Letter from a degree-granting institution confirming graduation
• Professional CV highlighting environmental expertise
• Publication record (if applicable)

Environmental Investor Requirements

Environmental investors committing capital to UAE-based green projects qualify for the Blue Visa through the investment pathway. The minimum investment threshold is AED 2 million for projects advancing the UAE’s environmental objectives.

Required documentation for environmental investors:

• Investment approval from ICP
• Proof of capital deployment (bank transfers, share certificates)
• Project documentation demonstrating environmental objectives
• Ecological impact assessment or sustainability certification
• Business license or fund registration documents
• Investment maintained for visa duration

Blue Visa Application Process

Blue Visa applications are processed exclusively through the ICP Smart Services portal. The application follows a two-stage process: nomination request, followed by a visa application upon approval.

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Verify eligibility: Confirm qualification under one of the seven eligible categories with supporting documentation.
2. Prepare documents: Gather all required certificates, portfolios, and evidence of environmental contribution.
3. Submit nomination request: Complete the nomination form through the ICP Smart Services portal (smartservices.icp.gov.ae).
4. Pay nomination fee: Submit an AED 350 nomination processing fee.
5. Await nomination review: ICP reviews the application and verifies environmental credentials (10-20 working days).
6. Receive nomination approval: Approved applicants receive notification to proceed with visa application.
7. Submit visa application: Complete the residence visa application through the ICP portal.
8. Obtain entry permit (if abroad): Receive a 6-month multiple-entry license to enter the UAE.
9. Complete medical examination: Undergo a fitness test at an approved UAE health center.
10. Submit biometrics: Provide fingerprints and a photograph at the ICP service center.
11. Receive Emirates ID: New Emirates ID issued within 5-7 working days.
12. Obtain residence stamp: Final 10-year Blue Visa stamp applied to passport.

Processing Timeline

Blue Visa Costs and Fees

Total Blue Visa costs range from AED 4,500 to AED 7,000, depending on the applicant’s location and processing requirements. The following table itemizes standard fees applicable to Blue Visa applicants.

Blue Visa Benefits

The Blue Visa provides comprehensive benefits equivalent to the Golden Visa, with additional recognition for contributions to the UAE’s environmental objectives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Official Resources and Links

Verify all requirements and submit applications through official UAE government channels:

Contact information:

1. ICP Toll-Free: 600 522 222
2. Ministry of Climate Change: 800 623
3. UAE Government Contact Center: 600 565 656

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and reflects regulations in effect as of January 2026. The Blue Visa is a newly launched programme, and requirements may evolve as implementation progresses. Always verify current requirements through official UAE government portals (u.ae, icp.gov.ae) before applying. Processing times, fees, and documentation requirements may vary by category and individual circumstances. This content does not constitute legal or immigration advice.

Last Updated: January 2026 | Sources: ICP, UAE Government Portal (u.ae), Ministry of Climate Change and Environment