The United Arab Emirates (UAE) passport has been ranked the most powerful in the world for 2026, according to the latest Passport Index published by Arton Capital. Emirati citizens can now travel to 182 destinations without the need to obtain a traditional visa in advance, marking a significant enhancement in the country’s global mobility.
This ranking places the UAE ahead of Singapore and Malaysia, which jointly hold second place with access to 175 destinations each, and Spain in third place with 174. The UAE’s passport offers a seven-destination advantage over Singapore and Malaysia and an eight-destination lead over Spain.
The mobility score of 182 for the UAE passport comprises 138 destinations that allow visa-free entry and an additional 44 countries that provide simplified visa or entry arrangements. There remain 16 destinations that still require a conventional visa for Emirati travelers.
The Passport Index, which ranks passports based on travel freedom, operates as a real-time platform that updates its data whenever countries adjust their visa policies. This approach contrasts with traditional annual rankings that typically refresh figures at set intervals.
Beyond the UAE, fourth place is shared by a group of countries including Belgium, Luxembourg, France, Denmark, Germany, Sweden, Finland, Italy, Switzerland, Greece, Portugal, Austria, Croatia, Norway, Ireland, and Japan, each with travel access to 173 destinations.
The ranking underscores the UAE’s rising international stature and the increasing diplomatic ties that have facilitated greater travel flexibility for its citizens. It reflects broader efforts by the UAE government to enhance global connectivity and foster international relations.