The UAE has achieved a remarkable feat,

 according to the latest Henley Passport Index! The UAE passport is now ranked among the top 10 most powerful passports globally. This prestigious ranking allows Emirati citizens visa-free travel to an impressive 185 countries and territories.

This achievement marks a significant climb for the UAE.  Since the inception of the index in 2006, the UAE passport has rocketed up 53 places, moving from 62nd to its current 9th position. This impressive progress reflects the UAE's diplomatic efforts, adding a whopping 152 destinations to its visa-free list.

What is the Henley Passport Index?

The Henley Passport Index is the go-to ranking for passport power. It ranks all the world's passports based on the number of destinations their holders can access without a prior visa. The ranking relies on data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and analysis by Henley and Partners.

Why is the UAE Passport So Powerful?

Experts attribute the UAE's rapid rise to the Emirati government's strategic focus on establishing the UAE as a global hub for business, tourism, and investment. Dr. Juerg Steffen, CEO of Henley and Partners, highlights the link between visa-free access and economic prosperity. Countries with powerful passports tend to enjoy greater GDP per capita, increased foreign investment, and stronger international trade ties.

Global Rankings

Singapore takes the top spot, with its citizens enjoying visa-free access to a whopping 195 destinations! France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and Spain follow closely in joint-second place, each with visa-free access to 192 destinations. Seven countries share the third spot with visa-free access to 191 destinations. The US finds itself in eighth place with access to 186 destinations.

The UAE Shares the Spotlight

The UAE is not alone in the prestigious 9th position. Estonia and Lithuania also boast a visa-free score of 185. Iceland, Latvia, Slovakia, and Slovenia round out the top 10, each with a score of 184.

Understanding the Rankings

The Henley Passport Index considers 199 passports and 227 travel destinations. The ranking compares the visa-free access of these passports. Destinations requiring no visa, including visa on arrival (VOA), visitor's permit, or electronic travel authorization (ETA), receive a score of 1. Conversely, destinations requiring a visa or a government-approved electronic visa (e-Visa) before departure receive a score of 0. The total score for each passport equals the number of destinations for which no visa is required.