UAE Passport Soars to Fifth Place in Global Ranking
The United Arab Emirates has secured a remarkable position in the latest Henley Passport Index for 2026. The country now holds the fifth spot globally, marking a significant achievement in passport strength.
Surpassing Traditional Powerhouses
This new ranking places the UAE ahead of several nations with traditionally strong travel documents. The list includes the United Kingdom, Canada, New Zealand, Australia, and the United States. In the Middle East region, the UAE passport stands at the very top, making it the most powerful travel document there.
Singapore remains the only country ranking higher, offering its citizens visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 192 destinations. However, the UAE has made impressive strides to narrow this gap through consistent efforts.
Two Decades of Unprecedented Growth
Over the past twenty years, the UAE has demonstrated the most substantial long-term improvement on the Henley Passport Index. Since 2006, the country has climbed an extraordinary 57 places. During this period, Emirati citizens gained visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 149 additional destinations.
This represents the largest increase recorded in the index's twenty-year history. The achievement reflects sustained diplomatic work, proactive international engagement, and strengthened bilateral and multilateral partnerships.
Expert Recognition of UAE's Achievement
Dr. Christian H. Kaelin, Chairman of Henley & Partners and creator of the passport index, described the UAE's rise as "without parallel." He noted that long-term vision, political stability, and strategic diplomacy have directly resulted in tangible mobility benefits for citizens.
These developments have also enhanced the country's global soft power. The expansion of the UAE passport's reach underscores the nation's emergence as a global leader in building constructive international relationships.
Practical Benefits for Emirati Citizens
With access to 184 countries, Emirati citizens now enjoy unprecedented freedom to travel for various purposes. This includes tourism, business activities, and personal visits. The UAE now positions itself among the world's most mobile nations, offering its people remarkable global access.
The country's strategic approach to diplomacy and international relations continues to yield significant advantages for its passport holders worldwide.
