UAE Passport Retains Its Place as the World’s Most Powerful in 2026

The UAE passport has retained its position as the world’s most powerful passport in 2026, according to the latest Passport Index by Arton Capital, extending the country’s record streak at the top of the ranking.

The UAE recorded a mobility score of 182, its highest-ever score in the index. Emirati passport holders can access 127 destinations visa-free, 45 with visa on arrival and 10 through electronic travel authorisation (eTA), giving them broad international travel access.

The UAE has held the number-one position in Arton Capital’s Passport Index since 2018, reflecting the country’s sustained efforts to expand international mobility through diplomatic relations and visa agreements. The latest ranking marks the ninth consecutive year that the UAE passport has topped the index.

UAE continues to strengthen global mobility

The passport’s strong performance highlights the UAE’s growing international connectivity. Easier access to destinations around the world provides Emirati citizens with greater flexibility for tourism, business, education and international travel.

The UAE’s progress is also notable in the Henley Passport Index, another major global passport ranking. In the latest July 2026 edition, the UAE climbed to joint second place, alongside Japan and South Korea, with visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 188 destinations. Singapore remains in first place with access to 192 destinations.

Henley also highlights the UAE as the biggest long-term mover in the history of its index. Since 2006, the country has added 153 destinations to its visa-free or visa-on-arrival access, representing the largest gain recorded by any passport in the index’s history.

A major milestone for the UAE

The UAE’s continued rise in global passport rankings reflects the country’s growing diplomatic reach and international partnerships.

With the UAE passport now leading the Passport Index for nine consecutive years and ranking among the world’s strongest passports in the Henley index, the country has established itself as a global leader in international mobility.

For UAE citizens, the result means greater freedom to travel internationally with fewer visa restrictions, reinforcing the passport’s status as one of the most valuable travel documents in the world.