The UAE passport has been ranked the strongest in the world for the fourth consecutive year, as per the latest “Passport Index.” With a total score of 180, Emirati citizens can access over 90% of the world without significant travel restrictions.
Out of the 198 countries that issue visas, UAE passport holders enjoy visa-free access to 133 countries, visa-on-arrival in 47 countries, and need pre-arranged visas for just 18 nations.
In second place, Spain scored 179, narrowly surpassing Germany. Spanish citizens can visit 134 countries visa-free, obtain visas on arrival in 45 countries, and require pre-arranged visas for 19 countries, slightly behind the UAE in overall mobility.
European Nations Continue to Lead
European countries dominated the rankings, securing the top 18 positions. Finland climbed to third place, surpassing France and Italy. France, scoring 178, held its position as the strongest passport among G20 nations.
Notable Changes in Rankings
Kosovo showed remarkable progress this year, gaining 35 mobility points after joining the Schengen Zone. On the other hand, the UK and the US experienced significant drops. The UK, previously in the top 10 in 2017, fell to 32nd place, losing 10 positions. The US dropped from 27th place last year to 38th in 2024, marking it as the weakest passport among G7 nations. Comparatively, China’s passport ranked 110th.
GCC Countries’ Rankings
Among GCC nations:
- Qatar ranked 95th, with 76 visa-free, 44 visa-on-arrival, and 78 requiring pre-arranged visas.
- Kuwait came 96th (62/50/86).
- Saudi Arabia secured 100th place (57/46/95).
