UAE Passport Rises to Global Top Tier in 2025 Henley Index

UAE Passport Enters Global Top Tier, Ranked 8th in 2025 Henley Index

The United Arab Emirates has secured one of its most notable foreign policy achievements with its passport entering the top tier of the 2025 Henley Passport Index. The ranking reflects the UAE’s decade-long diplomatic push to enhance global mobility, diversify partnerships and strengthen its international profile.

Global Position and Expanded Travel Access

In the 2025 index, the UAE ranks 8th worldwide , granting its citizens visa-free or visa-on-arrival entry to 184 destinations . This places the country alongside leading European economies and cements its status as the most powerful passport in the Middle East and Gulf region. The mobility expansion is one of the fastest improvements recorded by any country in the past ten years.

Strategic Diplomacy Driving the Rise

The UAE’s ascent is rooted in sustained outreach, including reciprocal visa-waiver agreements, participation in global travel dialogue platforms and intensified economic partnerships. By aligning diplomatic engagement with trade, security and investment interests, the country has increased acceptance of Emirati travellers and solidified its reputation as a stable, forward-looking state.

Economic Advantage and Citizen Benefits

Greater travel freedom has significant spillover effects. Students, professionals and entrepreneurs benefit from reduced administrative barriers, while businesses gain smoother access to major global markets. The strengthened passport also supports broader national initiatives such as residency reforms, global talent attraction and efforts to position the UAE as an international business hub.

Exam Oriented Facts

• UAE passport ranked 8th in the 2025 Henley Passport Index.

• Visa-free/visa-on-arrival access to 184 destinations .

• UAE improved 34 places in ten years , the fastest rise globally.

• Index is based on IATA travel data .