The United Arab Emirates has experienced the highest long-term increase of any nation on the Henley Passport Index, making an unprecedented 57-place jump in the last 20 years to be ranked 5th in the world in 2026.
As per the latest Henley Passport Index, which celebrates its 20th year this year and is compiled using exclusive data provided by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), UAE passport holders are now granted visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 184 destinations across the world.
It is a remarkable growth of 149 destinations since 2006, which is the highest growth rate the country has experienced in the history of the index.
The UAE has continued to consolidate its passport strength by maintaining an active diplomatic participation, disciplined visa policy, and the development of bilateral and multilateral relationships.
Chairman of Henley & Partners and creator of the index, Dr. Christian H. Kaelin, said, “The UAE’s rise on the Henley Passport Index is without parallel. It demonstrates how long-term vision, political stability, and proactive diplomacy can translate directly into tangible mobility benefits for citizens, and increasing soft power for the country.”
The UAE has surged past more traditionally dependable passports such as those of New Zealand (6th), the United Kingdom and Australia (both 7th), Canada (8th), and the United States (10th).
This development highlights the fact that the UAE has become a key player in the development of constructive international relationships in various regions, which is directly indicated in the scope of visa-free access that its citizens have.
In response to the ranking, Omar Obaid Al Shamsi, Under-Secretary of the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stated, “The record-breaking ascent of the UAE passport reflects our leadership’s forward-looking vision and unwavering commitment to openness, dialogue, and global cooperation. This achievement is the result of the tireless efforts of UAE diplomacy to establish strategic partnerships that elevate the nation’s standing on the international stage.”
Al Shamsi added, “By expanding travel freedom, the UAE ensures that our citizens enjoy ever-greater opportunities across the world, while simultaneously fostering global growth and collaboration. The UAE’s journey stands as an inspiring example of how vision, engagement, and openness can translate into tangible benefits for both citizens and the wider international community.”
With international travel demand projected to increase, IATA predicts over 5.2 billion airline passengers around the globe in 2026. Passport strength is emerging as a more and more important facilitator of economic and social engagement and soft power.
Director-General of IATA, Willie Walsh, reported, “A record number of people are expected to travel in 2026. The unequivocal economic and social benefits generated by this travel grow as it becomes more accessible. As many governments look to more tightly secure their borders, technological advances such as digital ID and digital passports should not be overlooked by policymakers. Convenient travel and secure borders are possible.”
A unique study of Henley and Partners on the predictors of passport strength identifies the most important structural variables, which stand behind the powerful passport, such as reciprocity in visa policies, active foreign policy, economic situation, and tourism-driven openness.
However, the countries that negotiate vigorously on visa waivers as well as establish collaborative relationships are more likely to increase travel freedom among their citizens.
The study also demonstrates that political and economic stability, along with a high level of receptiveness of foreign visitors and residents, is closely correlated with the continued passport power gains, and the UAE is acting as a model.
Dr. Kaelin further added, “Passport strength is not accidental – it is built by a clear vision and policy. Our research shows that countries which invest in diplomatic credibility, reciprocal openness, and international cooperation are rewarded with greater mobility for their citizens. Nations such as the UAE especially, through their steady and clear leadership, have prioritized tourism, trade, and global engagement as part of broader economic diversification strategies, helping drive successive improvements in visa-free access. The UAE exemplifies how a long-term, strategic approach to global engagement translates directly into passport power.”
