Latest news with #YearofSustainability
Arabian Post
4 days ago
- Business
- Arabian Post
Dubai Financial Centre Unveils Global Sustainability Initiative
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai The Dubai International Financial Centre has announced the launch of the Future Sustainability Forum, a global platform aimed at accelerating sustainable finance and innovation. Scheduled to take place on 4–5 December 2024 at Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai, the event seeks to foster collaboration among industry leaders, investors, policymakers, and technology innovators to address pressing environmental challenges. Arif Amiri, CEO of DIFC Authority, emphasised the forum's role in advancing climate action through collaborative efforts and innovative financial solutions. The initiative aligns with DIFC's broader commitment to sustainable economic growth and its leadership in the Dubai Sustainable Finance Working Group, established in 2019. ADVERTISEMENT The forum will explore eight core pillars, including sustainable banking and finance, renewable energy, sustainable infrastructure, and green technology. It aims to channel investment flows between the global north and south, supporting the UAE's Year of Sustainability and its objectives for COP28.
Fintech News ME
7 days ago
- Business
- Fintech News ME
Dubai Future District Fund Backs Over 190 Startups in 2024, Raises Over $1.65B
At its Annual General Meeting, the Dubai Future District Fund (DFDF), anchored by the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and the Dubai Future Foundation (DFF), shared key updates from its 2024 performance. The meeting highlighted a year marked by strategic growth, closer alignment with Dubai's economic goals, and steps towards supporting a resilient and inclusive innovation environment. The AGM also set the tone for DFDF's direction in 2025, which has been nationally designated as the Year of the Community. In reference to the UAE's declaration of 2024 as the Year of Sustainability, DFDF reiterated its focus on long-term value creation, responsible innovation, and community-focused investment. Over the course of the year, the Fund strengthened its partnerships with founders, investors and stakeholders addressing real-world challenges, reinforcing its dual role as both a capital provider and a facilitator within the broader ecosystem. The Board of Directors reported that DFDF supported more than 190 portfolio companies through a combination of direct investments and 12 Fund of Funds initiatives. These funds collectively secured over US$1.65 billion in capital commitments by the end of 2024. The Fund also maintained its alignment with the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), contributing to the development of the technology, talent and venture capital landscape in the region. Khalfan Belhoul, Chairman of the DFDF Board of Directors and Chief Executive Officer of the Dubai Future Foundation, said: 'These achievements underscore the central role that the Dubai Future District Fund plays in driving the growth of Dubai's digital economy, one that thrives on innovation and leverages the latest future technologies across key sectors.' In 2024, DFDF extended its efforts beyond investment, aiming to demonstrate the broader role of venture capital in fostering public and private collaboration and scalable innovation. The Fund published a number of value creation case studies in cooperation with institutions across various sectors, underscoring its expanding function as a strategic enabler. Engagements included exploratory partnerships with the Dubai Land Department and Dubai Health, designed to connect government priorities with startup-led solutions. The Fund also piloted projects with Nestlé and AWS to identify opportunities for technology adoption and business enablement. These activities form part of DFDF's wider aim to convert capital into tangible outcomes, supporting not only financial returns but also operational value, strategic direction and innovation capacity among stakeholders in the region's future economy. Looking towards 2025, DFDF signalled a renewed emphasis on building connections across the innovation ecosystem, in line with the UAE's Year of the Community theme. The Fund aims to enhance linkages between founders and funders, startups and regulators, and regional and global networks. 'Innovation thrives not in isolation, but within inclusive, connected communities,' said Arif Amiri, DFDF Board Member and Chief Executive Officer of DIFC Authority. 'As the Fund continues to position Dubai as a global pioneer for innovation, we are more committed than ever to cultivating collaboration with partners globally who are also committed to driving future economic growth.' For 2025, DFDF will focus on expanding capital deployment, prioritising investments that contribute to ecosystem development and economic resilience. It also plans to increase engagement across the innovation community, using dedicated platforms to bring together leading founders, investors, operators and policymakers.
Time of India
15-05-2025
- Business
- Time of India
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
NDTV
14-05-2025
- Business
- NDTV
UAE Opens Blue Visa For Expats: What Is It And How To Apply
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has started allowing eligible individuals to apply for its multiple-entry visa, which is eligible for 180 days (or six months) from the date of entry. Called the 'blue visa', the document will grant a 10-year residency to people who have made extraordinary contributions in certain field as listed by the UAE's Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP). The categories mentioned by ICP are environmental protection, sustainability, and clean and renewable energy. The blue visa was first announced in 2024 and officially launched this year. Now, eligible individuals can apply for the coveted visa whether they are based in the UAE or abroad. Who Will Benefit? According to Gulf News, distinguished individuals who have made positive impact in the said fields can apply for blue visa. Scientists and researchers with significant global achievements, investors and entrepreneurs operating in the field of environment, climate change and sustainability, and specialists working in government and private environment institutions within the UAE. The emirate is focusing more and more on sustainability and this category of visa aligns with the country's long-term goal of making the UAE more sustainable. It celebrated 2024 as second consecutive Year of Sustainability. How To Apply For Blue Visa? ICP has a smart services platform and mobile application where eligible individuals can apply. Here are the steps: Open the website or app, fill in the required information like email ID etc Give proof of work and accomplishments in the field of environment A valid passport with at least six months of validity Pay the applicable fees Submit the application The transaction will be confirmed via email How to Apply for the UAE Blue Visa from Outside The Country This is an important step if you are applying for the UAE's blue visa from India or any other country. As of Tuesday, May 13, 2025, the application process for the six-month visa is officially open. What You'll Need: A valid copy of your passport A recent colour photograph Documents proving your eligibility for the blue visa Application Process: Fill out your personal details in the online application form Upload the required documents Pay the applicable fees Submit your application Receive a confirmation email once your transaction is complete According to ICP, the entire process takes just seven minutes. "The service is completed within one working day once all documents are verified," the agency said in a brief statement. Blue visa is an extension of the highly sought after golden visa that has been into existence for some time. It also provides a six-month validity period, which can be extended once.
