The UAE has reached a historic milestone in the Henley Passport Index 2026 , climbing to second place with visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 188 destinations. The achievement marks the biggest improvement in the index’s 20-year history, highlighting the country’s growing diplomatic influence and expanding global reach.
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A Historic Milestone for the UAE
The UAE passport has officially become the world’s second most powerful travel document, according to the latest Henley Passport Index 2026. Emirati citizens can now enter 188 destinations without obtaining a visa in advance or by receiving one on arrival.
The UAE shares the second position with Japan and South Korea , while Singapore retained the top spot with access to 192 destinations. The annual rankings are based on exclusive IATA Timatic data, the global standard for travel and visa information.
From 35 Destinations to 188 in Two Decades
The UAE’s rise is the most significant ever recorded in the history of the Henley Passport Index. In 2006, the Emirati passport allowed access to only 35 destinations. Twenty years later, that figure has grown to 188, representing an increase of 153 destinations—the largest improvement achieved by any country since the index began.
The milestone reflects years of diplomatic engagement, stronger international relations, and visa agreements that have steadily expanded travel opportunities for UAE citizens.
Why This Ranking Matters Beyond Visa-Free Travel
The latest ranking is about more than easier travel. It signals the UAE’s growing influence on the global stage and reinforces its position as a leading destination for investment, business, tourism, and skilled professionals.
Henley & Partners says passport strength increasingly reflects a country’s diplomatic relationships, economic partnerships, and international credibility. The report also recorded a 41% rise in enquiries from UAE residents about residence and citizenship-by-investment programmes following heightened regional tensions earlier this year.
Global Passport Rankings Continue to Evolve
The 2026 rankings also reveal changing global mobility trends. While Singapore remains the strongest passport globally, the United States has slipped to 10th place with access to 180 destinations, and the United Kingdom now ranks sixth.
At the bottom of the index, Afghanistan remains the weakest passport with access to 22 destinations, followed by Syria, Iraq, Yemen, Pakistan, and Somalia . The report highlights a record 170-destination gap between the world’s strongest and weakest passports.
The UAE’s Global Standing Continues to Grow
Henley & Partners attributes the UAE’s remarkable progress to sustained diplomacy, international cooperation, and long-term efforts to strengthen global partnerships. The report notes that the country’s passport strength now exceeds what its peace ranking alone would suggest, demonstrating the impact of strategic foreign policy and economic engagement.
As nations compete to attract investment, talent, and businesses, passport strength has become an important indicator of international influence and global connectivity.
A Passport That Reflects the UAE’s Growing Global Influence
The UAE’s rise to the world’s second-most powerful passport is more than a travel milestone. It reflects two decades of expanding international partnerships, stronger diplomatic ties, and increasing global confidence in the country. With access to 188 destinations, the Emirati passport now stands as one of the strongest symbols of the UAE’s growing role in an increasingly connected world.
