UAE among world's most powerful passports

Have an Emirati passport? Well, get busy with your travel plans because the UAE has just soared into the top 10 of the world’s most powerful passports, grabbing the 9th spot!

The coveted Henley Passport Index ranking reveals that UAE passport holders can jet off to 185 countries and territories without the hassle of a visa. Talk about a golden ticket.

Let’s rewind a bit. In 2006, the UAE was languishing in 62nd place – hardly the stuff of globetrotting dreams. But fast forward 18 years, and bam – the UAE has catapulted up the ranks, adding a jaw-dropping 152 destinations to its visa-free access list. That’s a whopping 429 per cent increase.

This massive rise is no accident. The UAE’s strategic diplomatic moves and tireless negotiations have paid off, transforming its passport into a formidable travel companion. What started as a humble passport allowing entry to just 35 destinations is now a powerhouse of global mobility.

The Henley Passport Index isn’t just about bragging rights. It highlights how the UAE’s diplomatic savvy has not only broadened travel freedoms but also boosted its economic prowess. With a flourishing tourism sector and a robust business environment, the UAE has become a magnet for investment and international attention.

But it’s not just about business. The UAE’s enviable position as a travel hub reflects its commitment to a comprehensive approach to international relations. By strengthening diplomatic ties and positioning itself as a global player, the UAE has opened up a world of opportunities – both for its citizens and for travellers.

And it doesn’t stop there. For the third year running, the UAE is set to top the charts as the world’s leading wealth magnet. By the end of 2024, a record-breaking 6,700 millionaires are expected to call the UAE home, with newcomers hailing from India, the Middle East, Russia, Africa, and beyond. The UAE’s blend of world-class infrastructure and business-friendly policies makes it a prime destination for the global elite.

The latest Henley & Partners research underscores the link between visa-free access and economic success. Countries with higher scores often enjoy better GDP per capita, more foreign investment, and stronger international trade relationships. The UAE’s strategic visa policies and progressive immigration approaches are prime examples of how to leverage global mobility for economic gain.

However, the landscape is ever-evolving. Recent changes in global visa policies remind us that reciprocity and diplomatic agility are key. With nations like Namibia and Nigeria adjusting their visa policies, staying ahead in the visa game requires constant effort.

The world’s most powerful passports

Curious about the competition? Here’s the latest lineup:

Rank	Country	Visa-Free Destinations
1	Singapore	195
2	France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Spain	192
3	Austria, Finland, Ireland, Luxembourg, Netherlands, South Korea, Sweden	191
4	UK, Belgium, Denmark, New Zealand, Norway, Switzerland	190
5	Australia, Portugal	186
6	Greece, Poland	188
7	Canada, Czechia, Hungary, Malta	187
8	US	186
9	Estonia, Lithuania, UAE	185
10	Iceland, Latvia, Slovakia, Slovenia	184

Singapore takes the crown with access to 195 destinations, while the UK is in fourth place with 190. The US has slipped to 8th place, and Afghanistan continues to hold the bottom spot.

Dr. Juerg Steffen, CEO of Henley & Partners, remarked: “The strength of a nation’s passport has become a critical indicator of its global influence and economic potential. Governments can strategically enhance their passport power, unlocking unprecedented opportunities for their citizens and economies.

“The ability to travel visa-free to a wide array of destinations is no longer merely a convenience – it’s a powerful economic tool that can drive growth, foster international cooperation, and attract foreign investment.”