The United Arab Emirates passport has risen to the top spot on the list of the most powerful passports. This is according to the Passport Index – an online service that provides insights on passports and visas. UAE passport holders now enjoy the greatest freedom of movement globally of anyone in the world. UAE passport holders can travel visa-free to 167 countries. The second most powerful passports are the Singaporean and German passports. The USA passport is ranked at number four. Holders of the Afghanistan passport have the least freedom of movement.

The UAE passport reached number one on the eve of the country's 47th National Day celebrations. The UAE prime minister expressed his pride in his country's achievement. He tweeted: "A big 'thank you' goes to the working teams for their great efforts to strengthen the UAE's status, enhance its reputation, and facilitate procedures for Emirati citizens. Congratulations to the UAE leadership and people." A Passport Index spokesman said: "The Emirati passport has witnessed unprecedented progress globally in the past few years, reflecting the international stature of the country."