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UAE: Veteran wildlife expert 'planning to leave' gets Blue Visa after 35-year career
Reza Khan was among the first 20 thought leaders and sustainability champions to receive the 10-year residency permit
- PUBLISHED: Wed 12 Feb 2025, 1:17 PM
Dubai’s renowned wildlife expert Reza Khan was preparing to return to Bangladesh after over four decades in the UAE when an unexpected call changed everything.
The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment informed him that he was among the first 20 thought leaders and sustainability champions to receive the Blue Visa, a 10-year residency granted to individuals making exceptional contributions to environmental protection.
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“This is a blessing from God,” Khan told Khaleej Times, recalling how he was watching birds near the Abu Dhabi border on Friday when he received the news. “I was planning to leave, but now I have another chance to do what I love, which is to watch and document wildlife in its natural habitat. I can’t imagine missing out on this.”
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Khan said that the ministry had first contacted him last year, informing him that they were recommending his name for the new visa. “I was keeping my fingers crossed,” he said.
At 79, Khan remains a key figure in wildlife conservation. Originally from Bangladesh, he moved to the UAE after working as an assistant professor of zoology at Dhaka University. He later served as Principal Wildlife Specialist at Dubai Municipality and oversaw Dubai Zoo until its closure in 2017. Over the years, he has played a significant role in identifying and protecting the country’s wildlife, making him a trusted expert for researchers, journalists and conservationists.
After a 35-year career with Dubai Municipality, Khan retired in October 2024, but his passion for conservation has not waned. “Dubai is my home. My children and grandchildren are here. My love for nature is lifelong,” he said. His Blue Visa, valid until February 10, 2035, ensures he can remain in the UAE and continue his contributions to environmental research and documentation.
Khan has authored several books, including one on Dubai Zoo and a pictorial guide to the birds of the Emirates. His work has taken him from Al Ain Zoo to Al Marmoom Desert, playing a key role in shaping the UAE’s conservation landscape. “The UAE has always been a leader in progress, prosperity and environmental responsibility,” he said. “This visa is a testament to the nation’s commitment to protecting nature. I am deeply grateful to the UAE leadership for this honour, and I pray that I can continue to serve in the way I know best.”
Khan and his wife, Nurun Nahar, have three children and six grandchildren, all settled in the UAE.
The Blue Visa, 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 in Dubai on Tuesday, is awarded to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to environmental protection and sustainability, both within the UAE and globally.