The United Arab Emirates has achieved the strongest long-term rise ever recorded on the Henley Passport Index, climbing 57 places over the past 20 years to rank fifth worldwide in 2026.
According to the latest edition of the index, which is based on data from the International Air Transport Association, UAE passport holders now enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 184 destinations. This marks an increase of 149 destinations since 2006, the largest gain by any country in the index’s history.
Henley & Partners, which publishes the index, attributed the UAE’s ascent to sustained diplomatic engagement, strategic visa policies, and the expansion of bilateral and multilateral partnerships. Dr. Christian H. Kaelin, chairman of Henley & Partners, described the UAE’s rise as unmatched, citing long-term vision, political stability, and proactive diplomacy as key drivers of enhanced global mobility and soft power.
The UAE now ranks ahead of several traditionally strong passports, including those of New Zealand, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and the United States. Officials say the ranking reflects the country’s growing role as a global connector and its emphasis on openness and cooperation.
Omar Obaid Al Shamsi, under-secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said the achievement reflects the leadership’s commitment to dialogue and international partnership, adding that expanded travel freedom creates wider opportunities for Emirati citizens while supporting global collaboration.
As global travel demand is forecast to exceed 5.2 billion passengers in 2026, experts note that passport strength is becoming increasingly important for economic participation and international engagement. Henley & Partners research shows that stable governance, reciprocal visa policies, and openness to tourism and trade are central to sustained gains in passport power, areas where the UAE continues to invest strategically.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
