The UAE has secured a spot in the Top 10 Most Powerful Passports in the World, according to the Henley Passport Index released on Tuesday. The country ranks 9th, with a visa-free score of 185 countries and territories.
Since the index's inception in 2006, the UAE has climbed an impressive 53 places, from 62nd to its current 9th position, adding 152 destinations.
The Henley Passport Index ranks all the world’s passports based on the number of destinations their holders can access without a prior visa. The index uses exclusive data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), processed by Henley and Partners’ research team.
Dr. Juerg Steffen, CEO of Henley and Partners, commented on the achievement, saying, “The UAE’s meteoric ascent is the result of deliberate and concerted efforts by the Emirati government to position the UAE as a global hub for business, tourism and investment.”
He added, “Our research has consistently shown a strong correlation between a country’s visa-free score and its economic prosperity. Nations with higher visa-free scores tend to enjoy greater GDP per capita, increased foreign direct investment, and more robust international trade relationships.”
Singapore has reclaimed its title as the "world’s most powerful passport" in the latest ranking. It stands as the solo topper, with its citizens now enjoying visa-free access to 195 out of 227 travel destinations worldwide.