The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has retained its position as the most powerful passport in the world for the seventh year, according to the 2025 Passport Index released by Arton Capital.
The latest rankings show the UAE holding a clear lead at a time when global mobility has been achieved, with many major passports losing visa-free access as countries tighten entry requirements.
The UAE maintains the most powerful passport in the world
The report shows that in the year the UAE declined, the UAE continued to offer freedom of movement, underscoring its appeal among people working around the world who want flexibility and access to mobility. Arton Capital noted that the country remains a strong draw for global citizens seeking a secure base and extensive international connections.
Several Asian nations have recorded rapid development. Singapore made the biggest jump in the number of individual passports, rising from 30th to 2d with a Mobility Score of 175. Malaysia rose from 41east to 17th With a score of 174. Japan and South Korea also remain high in the rankings despite a slight decline.
Arton Capital said the rise of Asian passports reflects the growing influence of the state which is now translating into meaningful travel benefits.
European countries continue to dominate the top tier of the index but saw reduced scores compared to 2024.
Passports from the UK, US and Canada also record some of the biggest drugs of all. The UK fell from 32d to 39thextending a long downward trend since Brexit. The US and Canada Each lost five points, moving to 41east and 40th. Australia and New Zealand also entered. Arton noted that the expansion of these countries aligns with the findings of the survey that shows the rich are richer in terms of migration.
The Power of Passport shifts in 2025
Global openness fell in 2025 as the passport index recorded a drop in its global openness score, signaling the suspension of the post-pandemic recovery of freedom of movement. The report says many high-profile passport holders have lost their visa-free status due to security measures and revised travel regimes.
Apart from this, governments are increasing the adoption of digital systems such as electronic travel authorization. The UK, Israel, Turkmenistan, St Kitts and Nevis, and the Maldives have introduced etas, while Canada is replacing visa requirements for ETA citizens. The Passport Index Forecasts in more than 25 countries will adopt similar systems by 2026, driven in part by the planned issuance of the European Union of Etias by more than 60 countries.
Armand Arton, CEO of Arton Capital, said: “This year confirms what we have been following for some time: Global mobility continues to follow for a long time, and the period of post-applid reopening is quickly behind us.
“But within this, we see the UAE still dominating, while Asian countries are emerging as the top players in travel. Our number is only growing.”
