Global travel has become an essential aspect of modern living, and the strength of a passport often determines the ease and freedom with which citizens can explore the world. The UAE passport has solidified its position among the most powerful globally, ranking 10th in the Henley Passport Index for 2025. This milestone reflects enhanced global mobility for Emirati citizens and the UAE’s rising influence on the international stage.

According to the Henley Passport Index, which evaluates passports based on their visa-free and visa-on-arrival access to other countries, the UAE passport now allows entry to 185 destinations without requiring lengthy visa procedures. This places it in the top echelon of global passports and represents the highest score the UAE has achieved since the index was first established in 2006.

For comparison, the UAE ranked 62nd in 2006. It has made remarkable strides over the past 19 years, moving up 52 places and adding 127 destinations to its visa-free access. This rapid ascent is a testament to the UAE’s robust diplomatic initiatives and strategic partnerships worldwide.

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What Makes a Passport Powerful?

The strength of a passport lies not only in the freedom it grants to travel visa-free or with visa-on-arrival access but also in its reflection of a nation’s economic stability and diplomatic reach. A powerful passport signifies a country's ability to establish trust and cooperation with other nations.

Its collaboration with major global powers further exemplifies the UAE's growing influence. A key initiative is its partnership with U.S. Customs and Border Protection, which in October 2024 enabled Emirati citizens to apply for the Global Entry program, streamlining entry into the United States.

Global Passport Rankings for 2025

The Henley Passport Index ranks passports based on the number of destinations holders can access visa-free or with visa-on-arrival. Here are the top 15 for 2025:

1. Singapore

2. Japan

3. Finland, France, Germany, Italy, South Korea, Spain

4. Austria, Denmark, Ireland, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden

5. Belgium, New Zealand, Portugal, Switzerland, U.K.

6. Australia, Greece

7. Canada, Malta, Poland

8. Czechia, Hungary

9. Estonia, United States

10. Latvia, Lithuania, Slovenia, UAE

The rise of the UAE passport to the top 10 most powerful passports in the world is a significant achievement, reflecting the nation’s growing global stature and its commitment to fostering international relationships. With visa-free access to 185 destinations, Emiratis can now explore the world with unprecedented ease, showcasing the UAE’s influence and leadership on the global stage.