Another month, another passport ranking, and the UAE is once again sitting pretty at number two. This time it’s the Global Passport Index 2026, put together by Global Citizen Solutions, and the results are just as flattering as the last one.
UAE Passport Ranked 2nd On Global Passport Index 2026
UAE passport holders can access 183 destinations worldwide. That breaks down to 123 visa-free destinations, 60 that need a visa on arrival or e-permit, and only 11 that require a visa arranged in advance. The index looked at 197 countries across 14 different indicators, split between mobility, investment potential, and quality of life, so this one’s measuring more than just how many borders you can cross without paperwork.
Where The UAE Stands Overall
On investment specifically, the UAE ranked fourth globally with a score of 79.8, reflecting the strength of its economy and how attractive it is to investors. Combine everything, mobility, investment and quality of life, and the UAE lands at 21st overall globally but still first in the Middle East. Sweden topped the full index, followed by Switzerland, Finland, Germany and the Netherlands.
Also Read: UAE Passport Retains & World’s Most Powerful Rank In 2026; Top 10 List Inside!
How This Compares
If this sounds familiar, that’s because it is. The Henley Passport Index also ranked the UAE second globally earlier this year, with access to 187 destinations there instead of 183. The numbers differ slightly because each index weighs things differently, but the takeaway’s the same. The UAE passport keeps climbing, and it’s still the only Arab nation anywhere near the top of these rankings.
Two different indexes, two different methodologies, and the same story: this is a very good time to be holding an Emirati passport.
Cover Image Courtesy: CanvaPro/Bradai Abderrahmen from Getty Images
For more such snackable content, interesting discoveries and the latest updates on food, travel and experiences in your city, download the Curly Tales App. Download HERE.
FAQs
What rank did the UAE passport get on the Global Passport Index 2026? The UAE passport ranked second globally on the Enhanced Mobility Index.
The UAE passport ranked second globally on the Enhanced Mobility Index.
How many destinations can UAE passport holders access?
UAE passport holders can access 183 destinations, including 123 visa-free and 60 visa-on-arrival or e-permit destinations.
Is this the same as the Henley Passport Index ranking?
No, this is a separate index by Global Citizen Solutions. The Henley Passport Index ranked the UAE second as well, but with access to 187 destinations.
Which country topped the Global Passport Index 2026?
Sweden topped the overall index, followed by Switzerland, Finland, Germany and the Netherlands.