United Arab Emirates has strengthened its position as the world’s most powerful passport in 2026, according to the latest data released by Arton Capital’s Passport Index.
The UAE passport achieved a record score of 182, allowing Emirati citizens access to 182 global destinations. The country has held the top ranking since 2018, reflecting its expanding diplomatic and economic influence worldwide.
Officials said the UAE’s continued rise is linked to its long-term mobility strategy, international engagement and bilateral agreements. Since the launch of the UAE Passport Force Initiative by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 2017, the country has climbed from 88th place to the top global position in less than a decade.
Singapore retained second place in the rankings with a score of 175, while Malaysia remained the only other Asian passport within the top tier at 17th position.
Despite Asia accounting for nearly half of global GDP growth in 2026, countries including South Korea and Japan dropped four places in the rankings, further highlighting Europe’s continued dominance in passport strength.
European countries including Spain, Belgium, Luxembourg, France and Denmark remained among the world’s strongest passports.
