UAE passport ranks 5th globally on Henley Passport Index

Visa-free access expands to 184 destinations

According to the latest Henley Passport Index, based on exclusive data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), UAE passport holders now enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 184 destinations worldwide. This marks an increase of 149 destinations since 2006, the largest gain in the index’s history.

Diplomatic engagement and strategic partnerships

The UAE has strengthened its passport power through sustained diplomatic engagement, strategic visa policies, and expanding bilateral and multilateral partnerships. Dr. Christian H. Kaelin, Chairman of Henley & Partners, said the UAE’s rise demonstrates how political stability, long-term vision, and proactive diplomacy directly translate into mobility benefits and soft power.

UAE ranks ahead of traditionally strong passports

The UAE now ranks ahead of New Zealand (6th), the United Kingdom and Australia (both 7th), Canada (8th), and the United States (10th). This achievement underscores the UAE’s emergence as a global leader in constructive international relations, reflected in visa-free access for its citizens.

Leadership praises diplomacy and global cooperation

Omar Obaid Al Shamsi, Under-Secretary of the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, highlighted that the record-breaking ascent reflects the nation’s forward-looking vision, openness, and global cooperation. He noted that expanding travel freedom provides citizens with greater opportunities while promoting global growth and collaboration.

Global travel trends and economic impacts

With IATA forecasting over 5.2 billion airline passengers worldwide in 2026, passport strength is increasingly critical for economic and social participation. Willie Walsh, Director-General of IATA, emphasised that convenient travel and secure borders are both achievable through technological advances such as digital IDs and passports.

Research highlights keys to passport power

Henley & Partners research identifies factors underpinning passport strength, including visa reciprocity, proactive foreign relations, economic stability, and tourism-led openness. Countries that actively negotiate visa waivers and maintain political and economic stability consistently expand travel freedom.

UAE as a model for strategic global engagement

Dr Kaelin noted that passport strength is not accidental—it is built through clear vision and policy. The UAE has prioritised tourism, trade, and global engagement as part of its economic diversification strategy, resulting in successive improvements in visa-free access and exemplifying how long-term global strategy enhances passport power.