Business Desk 
Jun 28, 2025
The Pakistani passport has seen an improvement in global rankings, giving citizens greater access to international travel. According to the latest Henley & Partners Passport Index, Pakistan now ranks 100th worldwide, a notable jump from its 113th position in 2021.
This positive shift means Pakistani passport holders can now travel to 32 countries either visa-free or with visa-on-arrival. Travel experts say the development highlights Pakistan’s stronger global ties and improved diplomatic efforts.
Pakistan passport ranking improves
The upgrade comes after a string of bilateral agreements and accountable diplomatic meetings, including a recent agreement between Pakistan and the UAE pertaining to travel.
In view of this agreement, all holders of diplomatic and official passports from both countries can travel without needing a visa. The agreement was signed on the occasion of the 12th session of the Pakistan-UAE Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC).
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar issued a post on social media site 'X' that confirmed the agreement and indicated that the exemption from the visa represents a “shared resolve to strengthen fraternal ties and deepen cooperation.”
Officials state that the travel exemption agreement with the UAE will ease official travel and create avenues for deeper ties and relationships at the level of government-to-government contacts.
Furthermore, the agreement could help Pakistan project a better image in the international context, developing its own reputation that it is willing to forge stronger partnerships.
While the visa-exemption agreement is not yet for ordinary Pakistani citizens, and progress on that front will no doubt take time, the fact that the green passport is being welcomed with an upgrade to its ranking is encouraging progress.
