The UAE passport is one of the most sought-after travel documents in the Middle East. Issued to Emirati citizens, it provides strong global mobility, access to tax advantages, and long-term economic stability.
However, obtaining UAE citizenship, and therefore a UAE passport, is highly selective. In this guide, we explain who qualifies, how the application process works, and what benefits come with Emirati citizenship.
UAE PASSPORT: KEY TAKEAWAYS
UAE Passport Overview
The UAE passport — officially known in Arabic as Jawāz As-Safar Al-ʾImārātī (جواز السفر الإماراتي) — is the official travel document issued to citizens of the United Arab Emirates. It confirms the holder’s Emirati citizenship and enables them to travel internationally under the visa regulations of each destination.
Renowned for its exceptional global mobility, the Emirati passport ranks 31st based on the GCS Global Passport Index, offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 182 destinations.
Beyond travel freedom, the passport UAE also ensures its holders receive full consular protection and assistance from UAE embassies and diplomatic missions across the globe. This reinforces the country’s growing international influence and prestige.
| Passport ranking | 31st |
| Enhanced Mobility Index | 25th |
| Visa free countries | 123 |
| eTA countries | 4 |
| Visa on arrival countries | 23 |
| Population | 10.48 million |
Can foreigners obtain a UAE Passport?
Getting UAE citizenship is very selective and is rarely given to foreigners. It usually happens only through royal or cabinet nomination for people who show exceptional talent, make significant investments, or have specialized professional skills.
Since the 2021 legal changes, some foreigners can get citizenship without giving up their original nationality. However, there is no direct way to apply. Citizenship is only given through government nomination and approval.
When foreigners receive UAE citizenship, they get a full Emirati passport. This opens up benefits like easier travel, access to public services, and other privileges reserved for UAE citizens.
UAE Passport Rank in 2026
The strength of the Emirati passport is quickly increasing as more foreign investors want access to the range of investment opportunities. As of 2026, the UAE passport ranks 31st out of 200 countries on the GCS Global Passport Index. The score is based on the following:
- Enhanced mobility index: 25th
- Investment index: 6th
- Quality of living index: 121st
UAE Passport Types
Most Emirati citizens have a regular passport that is issued to UAE nationals for travel and identification purposes. However, there are some other UAE passport types, including:
- Diplomatic passport: The UAE diplomatic passport is issued to UAE government officials, diplomats, and their families.
- Service passport: A service passport is a special passport provided to UAE officials and government employees travelling on official government business.
- Temporary passport: A temporary passport is provided to UAE citizens that urgently need to travel but their passport has expired or if their passport is lost or stollen.
UAE Passport Benefits (2026)
There are a range of UAE passport benefits that come along with having an Emirati passport, some of which are outlined below.
01/ Global mobility
One of the main benefits of having a UAE passport is the increased global mobility it provides. Emirati citizens can travel to over 180 countries without a visa or get a visa on arrival, which makes business trips and vacations much easier.
Although travel rules can change, the UAE passport is consistently ranked as one of the strongest in the world. This shows the country’s strong diplomatic ties and respected position internationally.
For a complete list of countries you can visit without a visa, check out our trusted guide to UAE passport visa-free destinations.
02/ Dual citizenship flexibility
In the past, the UAE did not allow dual citizenship. But since 2021, new laws let certain foreign nationals to keep their original nationality when they become Emirati citizens.
Those who may qualify include investors, entrepreneurs, scientists, skilled experts, and professionals who bring valuable contributions to the UAE. Keep in mind that dual nationality is granted through nomination and government approval, not by applying directly.
03/ Easier business operations and financial access
If you hold a UAE passport, you’ll find it easier to open UAE bank accounts, get funding, and start a business in the UAE thanks to simpler administrative procedures.
While foreign nationals are free to open a business in the UAE and have 100% ownership rights without the need for a local sponsor, Emirati citizens still generally face less bureaucracy.
However, for those who do not qualify for citizenship, residency pathways such as the UAE Golden Visa and UAE residency through company formation remain viable alternatives.
04/ Tax efficiency and economic stability
The UAE is well known worldwide for its friendly tax system. It does not charge personal income tax, capital gains tax on most assets, or inheritance tax at the federal level.
Because of this, UAE citizens enjoy a simple tax system that helps protect their wealth and plan for the future. The UAE also has many double taxation agreements that lower tax burdens for international business.
Besides taxes, the UAE has a strong economy, stable currency, and a diverse market supported by trade, finance, real estate, and technology.
05/ High-quality education and healthcare benefits
The UAE is one of the top options for families because it offers some of the best education and healthcare benefits, whether you’re a resident or a citizen.
International schools in the UAE are globally recognized, with some of the leading educational institutions opening in the country to accommodate the growing expat population.
06/ Government housing support and loans
UAE citizens may qualify for government housing programs that offer financial assistance and interest-free loans to buy land or build a home.
07/ Access to public sector careers
Certain senior roles in government and the public sector are reserved for UAE nationals only.
Having a UAE passport lets citizens apply for leadership positions in government departments and key national institutions that non-citizens cannot access.
If you don’t qualify for a UAE passport, check out our UAE Golden Visa Guide for the top residency opportunities
UAE Passport Visa Free Countries
There are various UAE passport visa free countries. A UAE passport holder can travel to 182 countries visa-free or with visa on arrival, including:
| Countries | ||
|---|---|---|
 Albania |  Germany |  Palestine, State of |
 Andorra |  Greece |  Panama |
 Angola |  Grenada |  Paraguay |
 Antigua and Barbuda |  Guatemala |  Peru |
 Argentina |  Haiti |  Philippines |
 Armenia |  Honduras |  Poland |
 Austria |  Hong Kong |  Portugal |
 Azerbaijan |  Hungary |  Qatar |
 Bahamas |  Iceland |  Romania |
 Bahrain |  Ireland |  Russian Federation |
 Barbados |  Israel |  Saint Kitts and Nevis |
 Belarus |  Italy |  Saint Lucia |
 Belgium |  Japan |  San Marino |
 Bosnia and Herzegovina |  Jordan |  Sao Tome and Principe |
 Botswana |  Kazakhstan |  Saudi Arabia |
 Brazil |  Kiribati |  Senegal |
 Brunei Darussalam |  Kuwait |  Serbia |
 Bulgaria |  Kyrgyzstan |  Seychelles |
 Burkina Faso |  Latvia |  Singapore |
 Chad |  Lebanon |  Slovakia |
 Chile |  Liechtenstein |  Slovenia |
 China |  Lithuania |  Solomon Islands |
 Colombia |  Luxembourg |  South Africa |
 Costa Rica |  Malaysia |  Korea, Republic of |
 Croatia |  Mali |  Spain |
 Cuba |  Malta |  Saint Vincent and the Grenadines |
 Cyprus |  Mauritius |  Sudan |
 Czechia |  Mexico |  Sweden |
 Denmark |  Micronesia, Federated States of |  Switzerland |
 Dominica |  Moldova, Republic of |  Syrian Arab Republic |
 Dominican Republic |  Monaco |  Tajikistan |
 Ecuador |  Montenegro |  Thailand |
 Egypt |  Morocco |  Tonga |
 El Salvador |  Mozambique |  Tunisia |
 Equatorial Guinea |  Nauru |  Ukraine |
 Estonia |  Netherlands |  Uruguay |
 Fiji |  Nicaragua |  Uzbekistan |
 Finland |  North Macedonia |  Vanuatu |
 France |  Norway |  Holy See (Vatican City State) |
 Gambia |  Oman |  Zambia |
 Georgia | ||
UAE Passport Requirements in 2026
To apply for a United Arab Emirates passport, you must be:
- A citizen of the United Arab Emirates
- A newborn baby of a United Arab Emirates citizen
- The non-UAE wife of a UAE citizen (you must have been married for at least seven years)
Required Documents for a UAE Passport in 2026
To apply for a UAE passport, you will require the following documents:
- Emirates ID card (original and a copy)
- Family book (original and a copy)
- A recent photograph (sized 5.5cm x 4.5cm against a white background)
- Birth certificate
- Marriage certificate (if applicable)
In addition to these documents, you will be required to submit your old passport when applying for a new UAE passport.
UAE Passport Application Process (2026)
Applying for a new UAE passport
Before applying for a new UAE passport, make sure you meet the eligibility requirements. These vary depending on your situation—whether applying through naturalization, marriage, or investment. Once you are eligible:
- Step one: Prepare your documents: Gather all required paperwork, such as proof of identity, residence, and any relevant certificates.
- Step two: Submit your application: Apply through the official ICP Smart Services online portal. Ensure all uploaded documents are correct before submission.
- Step three: Attend an interview (if requested): Some applicants may be invited to an interview, especially for cases involving cultural integration or economic contribution.
- Step four: Wait for approval: Processing times differ depending on the type of application.
Passports for UAE newborns are issued as part of the ‘Mabrouk Ma Yak’ service. This service facilitates the issuing of identification documents for Emirati newborns, including a birth certificate, Emirati Identity card, and passport.
UAE Passport renewal
Renewing a UAE passport follows a straightforward process:
- Step one: Submit your application: Apply through the official ICP online platform or visit a Customer Happiness Center in person.
- Step two: Provide or update details: Double-check your form and upload any additional documents or information not automatically linked through government systems.
- Step three: Pay the fees: Complete the process by paying the required service fees online.
- Step four: Receive your passport: Once approved, your new passport will be delivered to your address via an authorized courier service.
For UAE citizens abroad, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) provides essential passport services, including emergency passports, diplomatic and special passports, lost or stolen passport replacement, and renewals via embassies or consulates.
UAE Passport Validity
In general, an Emirati passport is valid for five years for those under 21 and ten years for those over 21. This is from the date of issue or until all its pages have been used (whichever instance occurs first). You can renew your UAE passport six months before it expires.
United Arab Emirates Passport Cost
Applying for a UAE passport through Federal Authority For Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) is not an expensive process. The cost of obtaining a UAE passport is as follows
| Fee Type | Amount (AED) | Approx. Amount (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Request fee | 10 | $2.72 |
| Issue fee | 40 | $10.89 |
| Delivery fee | 15 | $4.08 |
| Total | 65 | $17.70 |
UAE Passport Processing Time
If you apply for a UAE passport through the ICP Smart Service portal you can obtain your passport in as little as two days.
How Can Global Citizen Solutions Help You?
Global Citizen Solutions is a boutique migration consultancy firm with years of experience delivering bespoke residence and citizenship by investment solutions for international families. With offices worldwide and an experienced, hands-on team, we have helped hundreds of clients worldwide acquire citizenship, residence visas, or homes while diversifying their portfolios with robust investments.
We guide you from start to finish, taking you beyond your citizenship or residency by investment application.
