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UAE Launches First Phase Of Blue Visa System For Environmental Champions

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

February 13, 2025

The UAE has officially launched the first phase of its Blue Visa system, granting 10-year residency permits to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to environmental protection and sustainability. The announcement was made during the World Governments Summit (WGS) 2025 in Dubai on February 11–13.

Aimed At Sustainability Advocates

The Blue Visa targets environmental champions, including NGOs, international organizations, award winners, and activists who have significantly contributed to sustainability. The first recipients of the visa will include 20 thought leaders and innovators in the field of sustainability, as confirmed by the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment and the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security (ICP).

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How To Apply For The Blue Visa

This new visa offers 10-year residency to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to environmental causes. Eligible applicants include members of international organizations, global award winners, and environmental researchers or activists. Applicants can apply directly to the ICP or be nominated by the appropriate authorities in the UAE.

The Blue Visa will be granted electronically, with applications submitted through government agencies working in the sustainability sector, following the ICP’s approved procedures. The system, activated during the first phase, is an extension of the Golden and Green Residency programs.

Strengthening UAE’s Global Sustainability Role

Dr. Amna Bint Abdullah Al Dahak, UAE’s Minister of Climate Change and Environment, emphasized the country’s commitment to becoming a global sustainability leader. She noted that the Blue Visa initiative aligns with the UAE’s vision of attracting innovators and environmental leaders to achieve ambitious national sustainability goals.

Continuous Access To Blue Visa Services

Major General Suhail Saeed Al Khaili, ICP’s director-general, announced that eligible individuals will have 24/7 access to the Blue Visa service through the ICP’s website and mobile app, subject to the established terms and conditions.

This initiative marks another significant step in the UAE’s sustainability journey, continuing its efforts to build a more sustainable future for its citizens and the world.

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Stelios Bi-Communal Awards To Award €500,000 Across 39 Teams In Cyprus

The annual Stelios Bi-Communal Awards, a hallmark of cross-community collaboration in Cyprus, will once again celebrate the innovative joint ventures between Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot entrepreneurs. The ceremony, scheduled for June 8 in Nicosia, underscores the vital role of business co-operation in fostering both economic growth and peaceful coexistence on the island.

Strengthening The Fabric Of Bi-Communal Collaboration

This year marks the 16th consecutive edition of the awards, which have contributed to creating business partnerships across the island. Organizers confirmed that 39 bi-communal teams, representing 78 entrepreneurs, will participate. According to the official announcement, Nikos Christodoulides is expected to attend the ceremony, adding institutional presence to the event.

Catalysing Innovation And Economic Opportunity

Teams are evaluated based on collaboration, innovation and business potential. The prize structure includes a Gold Award of €150,000, shared equally between partners. Two teams will receive Silver Awards totaling €200,000, while six teams will share €150,000 under the Bronze category. This structure distributes funding across multiple ventures at different stages of development.

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A Legacy Of Partnership And Investment

Since its launch, the programme has distributed more than €5.3 million in prize funding. Support comes from Stelios Haji-Ioannou, founder of the easy family of brands and chairman of the Stelios Philanthropic Foundation. The initiative continues to focus on supporting joint ventures between Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot entrepreneurs.

The Road Ahead

The upcoming ceremony, set to be held at the Stelios Philanthropic Foundation headquarters at 5 Markou Drakou Street in Nicosia at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, June 8, 2026, promises to be a landmark event. It will gather entrepreneurs and senior officials in a celebration of bi-communal success, reaffirming the potential of entrepreneurship to bridge divides and drive sustainable growth in Cyprus.