The UAE offers access to 182 destinations, while Indian passport holders can travel to 70 destinations through visa-free entry or visa-on-arrival arrangements, according to the latest Passport Index
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has emerged as the world’s leading passport in the 2026 Passport Index, while India ranks 72nd and the United States occupies 10th place, highlighting significant differences in international travel access.
Compiled by Arton Capital, the Passport Index measures passport strength according to the number of destinations holders can visit without obtaining a traditional visa in advance. The rankings reflect visa-free entry and other simplified entry arrangements available to travellers. <Cite refs={[“turn441271search0”]}/>
The UAE leads with a Mobility Score of 182, providing access to 182 destinations. Of these, 138 allow visa-free entry, while 44 offer other qualifying simplified entry arrangements. Singapore and Malaysia share second place with scores of 175, followed by Spain in third place with 174.
European countries feature prominently in the rankings. A group including France, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, the Netherlands and Ireland, alongside Japan, shares fourth place with a score of 173. South Korea and several European countries also rank among the leading passports.
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The United States ranks 10th with a Mobility Score of 167
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According to the index, US passport holders can enter 121 destinations visa-free and obtain a visa on arrival in 46 others, while 31 destinations require a visa
India ranks 72nd with a Mobility Score of 70. Indian passport holders can visit 30 destinations visa-free and obtain a visa on arrival in another 40, while advance visas are required for 128 destinations covered by the assessment.
The gap between India’s score and the UAE’s reflects the differences in travel freedom available to citizens of the two countries. For Indians living overseas, students, business travellers and families visiting relatives, visa requirements can affect travel planning, documentation and costs.
However, passport rankings measure international mobility rather than a country’s economic strength or diplomatic influence. Visa policies can also change as governments revise entry requirements and introduce new exemptions.
Travellers should check the latest rules before departure. Visa-free entry or a visa on arrival does not automatically grant permission to work, study or settle permanently in another country.
