UAE Passport Ranking 2025: What It Means
The United Arab Emirates passport is now the 8th most powerful passport in the world, according to the Henley Passport Index 2025. Emirati citizens can travel to 184 destinations without needing a prior visa, either through visa-free or visa-on-arrival options.
This ranking marks a significant rise from 42nd place in 2015, underscoring the UAE’s strong international relations and successful diplomacy over the last decade.
Where UAE Citizens Can Travel Visa-Free (2025)
As of 2025, the UAE passport allows travel to:
- 184 destinations worldwide
- Major business and tourism hubs across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas
- Key Schengen countries, Southeast Asian nations, and more
More powerful than the passports of the United States (182) and Canada (183)
2025 Henley Passport Index: Top 10 Countries
| Rank | Country | Visa-Free/Arrival Access |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Singapore | 193 |
| 2 | Japan, South Korea | 190 |
| 3 | Germany, France, Italy | 189 |
| 4 | Netherlands, Finland, Sweden | 188 |
| 5 | Greece, New Zealand | 187 |
| 6 | United Kingdom | 186 |
| 7 | Australia, Hungary, Malta | 185 |
| 8 | UAE, Estonia | 184 |
| 9 | Canada, Latvia, Slovakia | 183 |
| 10 | USA, Iceland, Lithuania | 182 |
Why the UAE Passport Got Stronger
1. Strong Global Diplomacy
The UAE continues to build new bilateral visa agreements, especially with Europe, Asia, and Latin America.
3. GCC Influence
The UAE’s leadership within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) adds weight to its diplomatic engagements.
3. Strategic Travel Policies
Active partnerships with international bodies and frequent global summits helped raise the UAE’s travel freedom.
In Conclusion
The UAE passport’s rise to the 8th spot globally in 2025 is a testament to the country’s international influence and strategic diplomacy. With easier travel to 184 countries, Emiratis now enjoy greater global freedom and opportunities.
Related Travel Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
A: 184 countries offer visa-free or visa-on-arrival entry.
A: Yes, the UAE is ranked 8th with 184 destinations; the U.S. ranks 10th with 182.
A: New visa agreements, diplomatic relationships, an increased global cooperation.
