The UAE Expands Horizons: Blue Visa Launch and Unprecedented Consular Services for Long-Term Residents

  • UAE
  • May 17, 2026

The United Arab Emirates continues to transform its residency architecture, further cementing its position as a long-term home for global talent. The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security has officially rolled out the highly anticipated 10-year ‘Blue Visa’, aimed at recognizing individuals making exceptional contributions to environmental protection and sustainability. Concurrently, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has introduced a landmark policy shift granting 10-year Golden Visa holders access to select consular services when traveling abroad—a privilege historically reserved exclusively for Emirati nationals. Coupled with a newly launched AI-powered digital platform named ‘Salama’ that processes visa renewals in minutes, these legislative adjustments reflect a decisive move toward fully integrating long-term expatriates into the national fabric. 

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