Following a notable improvement in the global ranking of Pakistan’s passport, Pakistani citizens can now enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 32 countries.

According to the latest report by Henley & Partners, a leading global citizenship advisory firm, Pakistan’s passport has risen to 100th place worldwide, up from 113th in 2021. The advancement is seen as a result of Pakistan’s active diplomatic engagement and strengthened international relations.

This positive development coincides with a new agreement between Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), allowing visa-free travel for holders of diplomatic and official passports from both nations. The arrangement removes pre-departure visa formalities for eligible travellers and is expected to enhance bilateral cooperation.

The visa exemption was agreed during the 12th session of the Pakistan-UAE Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC), where both sides signed a memorandum of understanding to this effect.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, in a post on the social media platform X, confirmed that he signed the agreement with UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al-Nahyan. He described the move as a key step towards “deepening institutional collaboration and reinforcing our fraternal relationship”.

Officials have welcomed the initiative, highlighting its potential to streamline official travel and further strengthen the trust and diplomatic partnership between Islamabad and Abu Dhabi.