Israeli Passport Achieves Record High Global Ranking Despite Regional Conflict

Israel ranks 18th globally in the Henley Passport Index, marking its highest position since the index's inception 20 years ago. This ranking is notable given Israel's low standing on the Global Peace Index, where it is placed 159th, reflecting ongoing regional conflicts and instability. The Henley Passport Index, based on exclusive data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), measures passport strength by visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to destinations worldwide.

Israel is one of two major exceptions, alongside the United States, where passport strength is driven not by domestic peace but by accumulated diplomatic capital, geopolitical influence, economic importance, and international trust in its institutions. Singapore leads the index with visa-free access to 192 destinations, while the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has made the most significant gains over the past two decades, rising to joint second place with Japan and South Korea, each with access to 188 destinations.

The report highlights a global trend where passport power increasingly reflects diplomatic and economic integration rather than peace alone. For example, France ranks 4th in passport strength but 99th in peace, and Ukraine ranks 31st in passports despite its low peace ranking due to ongoing conflict with Russia. The UAE's dramatic rise, adding 153 visa-free destinations in 20 years, exemplifies how sustained diplomatic engagement can transform global mobility.

The Henley & Partners firm also noted a surge in citizenship and residency program applications, particularly from UAE residents, following regional tensions. Despite a global decline in peace levels, the lowest since World War II, the expansion of international mobility continues, underscoring passport strength as a key indicator of a country's global standing. Daniel Smailin, head of Henley & Partners' Israeli office, emphasized that "passport power has become one of the most significant measures of a country's status on the global stage." Dr. Christian H. Klein, chairman of Henley & Partners, added that strong passports belong to countries others seek partnerships with for trade, investment, and security.

The report also notes a shift in global power dynamics, with Asia gaining prominence in passport rankings and Europe maintaining a strong presence but facing increased competition. The United States, once ranked first in 2006, now holds the 10th position, while the UK and Canada have improved their standings. The gap between the strongest and weakest passports has widened, with Afghanistan remaining at the bottom with visa-free access to only 22 destinations, compared to Singapore's 192.