UAE passport ranks second globally with record visa-free access

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UAE passport ranking rises to second globally with visa-free access to 187 destinations, marking a historic milestone.

ABU DHABI: UAE passport ranking has reached a historic high, placing the country second in the world for global travel access.

According to the 2026 Henley & Partners Passport Index, Emirati passport holders can now travel to 187 destinations without needing a visa in advance. This puts the UAE alongside Japan and South Korea, both sharing the second position globally.

Only Singapore ranks higher, offering visa-free access to 192 destinations.

The UAE passport ranking milestone reflects years of steady diplomatic efforts and strategic international partnerships. Visa-free agreements are often the result of long-term negotiations, and this progress highlights the country’s growing global influence.

For travellers, the impact is immediate. Fewer visa requirements mean easier planning, reduced costs and greater flexibility when choosing destinations. Whether for business or leisure, Emirati citizens now have one of the most powerful travel documents in the world.

The UAE passport ranking also strengthens the country’s position as the leading passport in the Middle East, clearly ahead of regional counterparts. This reinforces the UAE’s reputation as a globally connected hub for travel, trade and investment.

Experts say such rankings are not just about convenience, but also about trust and international cooperation. Countries that offer visa-free access signal strong diplomatic ties and confidence in cross-border mobility.

As global travel continues to evolve, the UAE passport ranking stands out as a key indicator of the nation’s expanding reach and influence.

And with mobility becoming more valuable than ever, this achievement places the UAE firmly among the world’s most connected nations.

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