Emirati passport holders can now claim the world’s strongest passport, according to the 2026 Passport Index by Arton Capital. The UAE ranks first, with citizens able to access 182 destinations without applying for a traditional visa in advance. The ranking gives the UAE a seven-destination lead over the countries in second place.
The UAE Passport Just Became The World’s Strongest Again
The UAE’s mobility score of 182 comprises 138 visa-free destinations and 44 destinations offering a visa on arrival or an electronic travel authorisation (eTA). Citizens still need to arrange a visa before travelling to 16 destinations, according to the Emirates News Agency (WAM).
How The Rest Of The Top Ten Looks
Singapore and Malaysia share second place, with access to 175 destinations each. Spain follows in third with 174, while eight countries share fifth place with 172 destinations, including South Korea, Poland and Hungary. The UK ranks seventh, while the United States sits in tenth place.
The UAE has held the top position in Arton Capital’s index since 2018. Its current score of 182 also marks the highest figure recorded by the index.
The broader picture is less encouraging for international travellers. The index’s World Openness Score, which measures global travel accessibility, has fallen to its lowest level since 2023. Against that backdrop, the UAE’s continued lead stands out.
Why Other Rankings Look Different
You may have come across a different UAE passport ranking elsewhere. That is because passport indexes use different data sources and methods to measure travel access.
The Henley Passport Index, which draws on data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), ranked the UAE second in July 2026, with access to 188 destinations.
Arton Capital’s Passport Index uses a mobility score that includes visa-free entry, visas on arrival and electronic travel authorisations. It also updates its rankings in real time, which can affect the figures.
Before booking, check the latest entry rules with the destination’s official authorities or embassy, and confirm requirements with your airline. Some countries also require at least six months of passport validity, although the exact rule varies by destination.
The UAE’s top position is a significant milestone, but the practical benefit lies in knowing which entry rules apply to your next trip.
Cover Image Courtesy: CanvaPro/ Bradai Abderrahmen from Getty Images
FAQs
Why does Henley show a different result?
Henley uses IATA data and placed the UAE second in July 2026 with 188 destinations. Arton Capital counts visa-free, visa-on-arrival and electronic authorisation access, and updates in real time.
Which is the world’s most powerful passport in 2026?
In Arton Capital’s Passport Index, it is the UAE passport with a score of 182. The Henley Passport Index, which uses a different method, currently has Singapore on top with 192.
How many destinations can Emiratis visit without a visa?
The score of 182 combines 138 visa-free destinations with 44 offering visa on arrival or an electronic travel authorisation. Only 16 destinations need a pre-arranged visa.