The UAE passport has secured the fifth position among the world’s strongest passports in the Henley & Partners Passport Index 2026, marking a notable improvement of five places compared to the previous year. The ranking highlights the UAE’s growing global mobility and the success of its long-term diplomatic and visa-liberalisation strategies.
According to the index, UAE passport holders now enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 184 countries and territories, placing the nation ahead of traditionally strong passports such as those of the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Iceland. The UAE shares the fifth position with Hungary, Portugal, Slovakia, and Slovenia.
Singapore topped the 2026 rankings with access to 192 destinations, followed by Japan and South Korea in second place. Denmark, Luxembourg, Spain, and Sweden jointly ranked third, reflecting strong mobility privileges for their citizens.
Henley & Partners noted that the UAE has delivered the most impressive performance globally over the past two decades. Since 2006, the country has added 149 new visa-free destinations, resulting in a remarkable climb of 57 places in the global rankings. This sustained progress has been attributed to consistent diplomatic engagement, strategic international partnerships, and proactive visa facilitation agreements.
The UAE passport’s continued rise underscores the country’s expanding international influence and reinforces its position as one of the world’s most connected nations.
