Dr Reza Khan, among first to get UAE’s new Blue Visa, speaks out

Wildlife specialist, who came to UAE over 40 years ago, says he is truly humbled

Last updated:
Sharmila Dhal, UAE Editor
2 MIN READ
Dr Reza Khan (centre) receiving his Blue Visa at the World Government Summit yesterday.
Dr Reza Khan (centre) receiving his Blue Visa at the World Government Summit yesterday.
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Dubai: Well-known birdwatcher and wildlife expert Dr Reza Khan is among the first few recipients of the just initiated Blue Visa.

The Blue Visa is a 10-year residence visa designed for individuals who have made an exceptional contribution towards the environment’s protection and sustainability, both inside and outside the UAE. It was announced by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, and the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP) at the World Government Summit (WGS) in Dubai yesterday.

Dr Reza Khan, who earlier worked as Principal Wildlife Specialist at the Public Parks and Recreational Facilities Department at Dubai Municipality, was also in-charge of the Dubai Zoo until 2017 when it was shut. He is among the 20 sustainability champions who received the Blue Visa yesterday.

Deeply honoured

Speaking to Gulf News, Dr Khan said, “I am deeply grateful to the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment for this honour and recognition. The UAE has long been a beacon of progress, prosperity, and humanity—not only for its people but for nature as well. This initiative is a natural continuation of the nation’s commitment to environmental stewardship, embodying the true essence of ‘khalifa’—the responsibility entrusted to us by the Almighty to protect and nurture our world.”

Dr Khan, who has been in the UAE for over 40 years, is a ready-to-share repository of information on anything and everything to do with birds, wildlife and conservation. He has contributed significantly to the identification and conservation of birds and wildlife in the UAE. He is also an author with a huge following, and continues with his desert research projects in his own capacity.

“When one truly loves what they do, they dedicate themselves wholeheartedly, without seeking recognition or waiting for accolades. As a lifelong nature lover and conservationist, my passion has always been rooted in the wonders of the natural world. Spending time in the field, observing wildlife in its prime, capturing its beauty through my lens, researching patterns and behaviours, and studying the impact of human development—these have all been integral to my journey as a wildlife specialist,” said Dr Khan.

“Having spent 40 years in the UAE, my work has taken me across diverse landscapes, from curating at Al Ain Zoo and caring for Dubai Zoo to envisioning a safari and researching the flora and fauna of Al Maroom Desert. These experiences have been the essence of my life’s work. When I retired late last year, I never imagined that the next chapter would unfold in such a profound and humbling way,” he added. His Blue Visa is valid till February 10, 2035.

Dr Khan and his wife Nurun Nahar, have three children and six grandchildren, all of whom are settled in the UAE.

“My grandchildren were as excited as I am and they came over to celebrate my new chapter,” said Dr Khan.

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