UAE Passport Achieves Joint Second Place in Global Power Ranking

Here's what it means for you.
Enhanced travel freedom can open new business opportunities and global networking for professionals.
What happened
On April 13, 2026, the Henley Passport Index ranked the UAE passport joint second most powerful globally.
The Context
- Historic Ranking: The UAE passport's rise to joint second place, alongside Japan and South Korea, marks its highest position ever, with access to 187 destinations.
- Diplomatic Gains: This ascent is attributed to sustained diplomatic efforts and bilateral agreements that have expanded visa-free access significantly over the past decade.
- Regional Leadership: The UAE now holds the strongest passport in the Middle East, surpassing Singapore's top position, reflecting its growing influence on the global stage.
The Number
— the number of visa-free or visa-on-arrival destinations accessible to UAE passport holders, highlighting the passport's enhanced global mobility.
Takeaway
Expect continued growth in international partnerships and travel opportunities for Emirati professionals, reinforcing the UAE's status as a global connectivity hub.
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