UAE introduces Blue Visa: Who's eligible and how to apply
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 Visa
Introduced 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).
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
Click Here - This Might Save You From Losing Money
Expertinspector
Click Here
Undo
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 Program
Five 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.
One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
34 minutes ago
- Time of India
Why should a vegetarian order from non-veg serving eatery if it hurts sentiments, asks consumer panel
A consumer redressal commission in Mumbai has said if meat-based food hurts a "strictly vegetarian" person's religious sentiments, why should the individual opt to order from a restaurant serving both veg and non-veg items. It seems reasonable that "a prudent person would be able to distinguish between veg and non-veg food before consuming," the District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission, Mumbai Suburban (Additional) said in an order passed last month. The commission dismissed a complaint by two persons against an eatery for allegedly wrongly serving them non-vegetarian food. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Free P2,000 GCash eGift UnionBank Credit Card Apply Now Undo "If the complainants were strictly vegetarian and non-veg food hurts their religious sentiments, then why did they opt to order the food items from the restaurant which was delivering both non-veg and vegetarian food , instead of ordering the food from the restaurant which was exclusively vegetarian and served only and only vegetarian food," it said. As per the complainants, they had ordered a steamed 'Darjeeling momo combo' with a soft drink from a Wow Momos outlet at Sion in Mumbai on December 19, 2020. Live Events They claimed to have specifically emphasised their vegetarian preference twice. However, they received steamed "chicken Darjeeling momos", the complainants said. They further alleged that the eatery staff ignored their instructions and that the display board at the outlet did not clearly indicate vegetarian or non-vegetarian options for the combo. The complainants claimed they suffered mental trauma, emotional distress and their religious feelings were hurt due to the negligence of the company. They sought Rs 6 lakh in compensation for the distress caused. The company, on the other hand, contended the complainants themselves ordered non-vegetarian items, as indicated by the invoice. It alleged that the complainants physically abused their employee and created a nuisance, leading them to refund the order and provide the products free of cost. The company submitted that the complainants were not "consumers" under the Consumer Protection Act due to the refund. Despite the alleged behaviour, the company said it offered a gift voucher worth Rs 1,200 as a goodwill gesture, but the complainants demanded Rs 3 lakh each. The complaint was filed with malafide intention to harass the company, it claimed. The commission noted that the invoice indicated the complainants ordered non-veg momos. "A prudent person would be able to distinguish between veg and non-veg food before consuming it seems reasonable," the commission noted. The commission pointed out that while the offer board's photo did not clearly state if the steamed Darjeeling Momo combo was veg or non-veg, it did mention "veg/non-veg" at the bottom, implying the availability of both the options. Furthermore, the complainants failed to provide evidence or details regarding any religious ceremonies they claimed were affected, the commission said. The complainants have not been able to establish any deficiency in service on the part of the company, it added.
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Lucknow nominated as UNESCO 'City of Gastronomy'; set to join Hyderabad on global culinary map
Photo credit: AI LUCKNOW: The city of Nawabs, known for its sumptuous kebabs and royal culinary traditions, is now vying for global recognition. Lucknow has been officially nominated for inclusion in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) as a 'City of Gastronomy' a title currently held by only one other Indian city, Hyderabad. Confirming the development, Lucknow divisional commissioner Roshan Jacob said, 'We have submitted our nomination, and additional data will be sent by the end of June. Post that, Unesco may conduct a field visit to verify our claims. Lucknow's culinary culture is not just historic—it's a living tradition passed down over centuries.' The nomination, coordinated by the state's department of tourism and culture, highlights the city's rich Awadhi fare—iconic dishes like Tunday kebabs, galawati, nihari, biryani, khasta, kulfi, and jalebi that have drawn food lovers from across the globe. Heritage conservationist Abha Narain Lambah, appointed to prepare the Unesco dossier, noted, 'Lucknow's gastronomic heritage was enriched by the royal kitchens of Awadh and continues to thrive across communities—from Brahmins and Baniyas to Kayasthas, Khattris and working-class families. The city offers a diverse culinary ecosystem, from legendary kebabs to humble khasta and puri-sabzi.' 'Food Lucknow is a major food destination,' she added. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Wrinkles? No. Philips Garment Steamers Book Now Undo Special Secretary, Tourism, Eesha Priya, said the application is now under review by the Union Ministry of Culture. 'The blueprint prepared by Abha's team is detailed and data-backed. We're hopeful Lucknow will make the cut,' she said. Unesco's Creative Cities Network recognises cities with vibrant cultural sectors. Globally, cities like Alba (Italy), Arequipa (Peru), Bergen (Norway), Belem (Brazil), and Bendigo (Australia) are already part of the list under the gastronomy category. Experts say Lucknow offers a compelling case. 'The artistry in Awadhi cooking—from the dum pukht technique to refined spice layering—is unmatched. Lucknow isn't just about food, it's about storytelling through cuisine,' said Ahad Arshad, a local food chain operator. Culinary expert Adil Hussain added, 'Hyderabad may be known for its biryani and haleem, but Lucknow offers a deeper, more nuanced food journey—from Mughlai meats to street snacks. It's a complete sensory experience.' Officials point out that while the city is celebrated for its non-vegetarian delights, vegetarian and sweet offerings are just as noteworthy. 'Dishes like Bajpai ki Puri, Durga ke Khaste, Malai Paan, and Motichur ke Laddoo are integral to Lucknow's identity,' said an officer involved in the bid. With the final submission underway and Unesco assessment awaited, Lucknow could soon find itself on the world's gastronomic map—one kebab at a time.
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Meet Scott Bessent - the gay banker who beat up Elon Musk
The White House witnessed two rare phenomenon this year- an openly gay Republican taking charge of the US treasury department and that same person beating up the richest man Elon Musk . Moreover, the brawl between Scott Bessent and Musk eventually contributed to the latter's messy break-up with Donald Trump. The confrontation unfolded in the West Wing following a contentious Oval Office meeting, where both men lobbied Trump over who should lead the IRS. After the meeting, Bessent called Musk a 'total fraud,' accusing him of failing to deliver on promised spending cuts. In response, Musk allegedly delivered a forceful shoulder strike to Bessent's ribcage 'like a rugby player,' triggering a brief brawl that bystanders had to break up, as narrated by MAGA activist Steve Bannon. Trump, upon learning of the incident, reportedly said it was 'too much.' The scuffle ended with Musk being escorted out of the West Wing. Who is Scott Bessent? Scott Bessent is the first openly gay Treasury Secretary and the first openly LGBTQ Senate-confirmed Cabinet member in a Republican administration. A Yale graduate, he built a distinguished career in finance with roles at Brown Brothers Harriman, the Olayan Group, and Kynikos Associates before entering public service. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch vàng CFDs với mức chênh lệch giá thấp nhất IC Markets Đăng ký Undo He has been a long-time advocate, supporter and mentor of financial literacy and education programs. He has endorsed key pillars of Trump's economic agenda, including business deregulation, tax cuts, and tariffs targeting major US trading partners. In announcing his nomination on November 22, Trump praised Bessent as 'a strong advocate of the America First Agenda.' However, Bessent has faced some skepticism from conservatives. When Trump first considered him for the role, it sparked criticism from Elon Musk, the billionaire tapped to co-lead the newly established Department of Government Efficiency. 'Bessent is a business-as-usual choice,' Musk had said, adding, 'Business-as-usual is driving America bankrupt, so we need change one way or another.'
