Qatar has retained its position in the latest quarterly update of the Henley Passport Index, ranking 47th globally and second among Middle Eastern countries. Released on July 22, 2025, the ranking evaluates 199 passports based on the number of destinations accessible without prior visa requirements. Qatari passport holders currently enjoy visa-free access to 112 destinations out of 227 worldwide.

GCC Rankings

Within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Qatar ranks second after the United Arab Emirates (UAE), which climbed two spots to reach 8th place, allowing visa-free access to 184 destinations. Other Gulf nations are ranked as follows:

Kuwait: 50th (100 destinations)
Saudi Arabia: 54th (91 destinations)
Bahrain: 55th (90 destinations)
Oman: 56th (88 destinations)

This positioning reflects the growing diplomatic relations and international agreements these countries are forging, enhancing travel freedom for their citizens.

Asian Nations Lead

Asian countries continue to lead in global mobility. Singapore holds the top position, granting its citizens visa-free access to 193 destinations. Japan and South Korea share second place with access to 190 destinations each. Notably, India made its largest-ever improvement, rising eight spots to 77th, with visa-free access to 59 destinations. This leap is attributed to India's increasing diplomatic ties and active participation in international forums.

US and UK Decline

Once the holders of the most powerful passports, the US and UK continue to fall in the rankings. The United States has dropped to 10th place, with visa-free access to 182 destinations, marking its lowest position in the index's 20-year history. Factors contributing to this decline include shifting global dynamics and stricter visa policies from other nations. The United Kingdom fell to 6th place, allowing access to 186 destinations, which reflects the post-Brexit landscape affecting its global standing.

Countries with the Most Citizens in Qatar

• India: 77th (59 destinations)
• Bangladesh: 94th (39 destinations)
• Nepal: 95th (38 destinations)
• Egypt: 85th (49 destinations)
• Philippines: 72nd (65 destinations)
• Pakistan: 96th (32 destinations)
• Sri Lanka: 91st (42 destinations)
• Sudan: 92nd (41 destinations)
• Syria: 98th (27 destinations)
• Jordan: 84th (51 destinations)

The presence of these nationalities in Qatar underscores the country’s appeal as a destination for expatriates, largely driven by its economic opportunities and quality of life.

World’s Most Powerful Passports (As of July 2025)

• Singapore: 193 destinations
• Japan, South Korea: 190 destinations
• Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Spain: 189 destinations
• Austria, Belgium, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Sweden: 188 destinations
• Greece, New Zealand, Switzerland: 187 destinations
• United Kingdom: 186 destinations
• Australia, Czechia, Hungary, Malta, Poland: 185 destinations
• Canada, Estonia, United Arab Emirates: 184 destinations
• Croatia, Latvia, Slovakia, Slovenia: 183 destinations
• Iceland, Lithuania, United States: 182 destinations

At the bottom of the index, Afghanistan ranks 99th, with visa-free access to only 25 destinations. Syria follows at 98th with 27 countries, and Iraq is 97th with access to 30 destinations. These rankings highlight the significant challenges faced by citizens of these countries in terms of global mobility.

The Henley Passport Index is compiled using exclusive data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), updated quarterly to rank passports based on the number of accessible destinations.

Dr. Juerg Steffen, CEO of Henley & Partners, stated, “A passport today is more than a travel document. It reflects a country’s diplomatic influence, global integration, and foreign policy priorities." This perspective emphasizes the importance of continued diplomatic engagement for improving passport strength and global standing.

Since its launch in 2013, Greece’s Golden Visa Program has emerged as one of Europe’s most affordable and attractive residence-by-investment schemes. Designed to draw foreign investors and their families, the program offers permanent residence permits in Greece in exchange for qualifying investments. Beyond securing a foothold in this picturesque Mediterranean country, holders enjoy visa-free access to the broader Schengen Area, unlocking opportunities for travel, education, and long-term settlement throughout much of Europe.

At its core, the Golden Visa grants investors the right to live in Greece without requiring them to reside there permanently. While the investment must be maintained to renew the residence permit every five years, applicants can pursue Greek citizenship after seven years of continuous residence—a compelling prospect for those seeking deeper ties to Europe.

One of the program’s key attractions is its family inclusion provision, allowing the primary applicant to include their spouse, dependent children under 21, and dependent parents from both sides, offering a pathway for entire families to benefit from the residence permit.

The program’s investment thresholds vary according to the type and location of assets. The most accessible option starts at €250,000, specifically for specialized real estate projects like restoration of listed buildings or conversion of commercial properties. For broader real estate purchases, a minimum investment of €400,000 is required for a single property of at least 120 sqm, with prime locations such as Athens, Thessaloniki, and the larger Greek islands commanding a higher threshold of €800,000.

Beyond property, the scheme includes other qualifying routes. Investors can opt for long-term lease agreements for hotels or furnished tourist residences, generally valued between €400,000 and €800,000 based on location. Financial investments are also accepted, including a €500,000 deposit in Greek credit institutions, capital contributions of the same amount in Greek companies or mutual funds, or the purchase of government bonds maturing in at least three years. Additionally, investments in listed shares, corporate bonds, or mutual funds linked to Greece range from €350,000 to €800,000.

For global investors, the program offers a wealth of benefits. Apart from visa-free travel across the Schengen zone, holders can live in Greece without mandatory minimum stays. Investment properties may be rented out, while shares in Greek companies can yield dividends, providing financial flexibility. As long as the investment is maintained, the residence permit has no expiry limit and can be renewed every five years.

Furthermore, residents gain access to Greece’s reputable education and healthcare systems, enhancing its appeal for families seeking stability and quality of life in Europe.

The application process typically involves four key steps. Prospective investors first visit Greece to select their preferred investment. They then complete their property purchase or financial transaction before submitting the application accompanied by essential documents such as passports, proof of investment, health insurance, and clean criminal records. After undergoing final verification, the residence permit is issued. Processing times can vary, with many applicants engaging legal and advisory firms to ensure compliance with all documentation requirements.

Greece’s Golden Visa Program stands out not only because of its affordability but also due to the country’s stable legal system, quality healthcare, and solid education network. Its strategic geographic location facilitates easy connections to Europe, Asia, and Africa, making it a gateway for global mobility.

Today, the Greece Golden Visa remains a top choice for investors seeking residency security and enhanced mobility within Europe. With its adaptable investment options, family inclusiveness, and an inviting lifestyle, the program continues to attract applicants from around the world eager to make Greece their new home.

Starting September 1, travelers to Bali, including Kiwis, must adapt to a new customs and immigration process with the introduction of the All Indonesia declaration card. This streamlined declaration form merges the existing customs and immigration processes into one, simplifying entry procedures at Ngurah Rai International Airport.

Travelers are required to complete the All Indonesia declaration online no more than 72 hours before their flight, which then generates a QR code to be presented upon arrival for immigration clearance. While the form integrates multiple procedures, it does not replace visa requirements, which must still be obtained separately.

Currently, this digital declaration system is being rolled out exclusively in Bali, with plans to extend it across all Indonesian international airports by October 1. The introduction of the All Indonesia system follows earlier changes this year, including a $15.50 (150,000 IDR) tourist levy implemented by the Bali Provincial Government to fund initiatives focused on preserving the island’s culture and natural environment.

This new approach aims to create a faster, more efficient, and user-friendly entry experience for travelers entering Bali while maintaining compliance with Indonesia’s immigration, customs, and health requirements.

Abu Dhabi is home to Etihad Airways, the UAE's national airline and one of the world's top carriers, offering a travel experience that goes far beyond simply getting from point A to B. Travelers can enjoy unique perks such as a free two-night stay at luxury hotels in Abu Dhabi when booking long-haul flights with stopovers, allowing for a mini-vacation within their journey.

The stopover experience is further enhanced with a Stopover Pass that provides 15 percent discounts on major attractions and Yas Island theme parks, along with a complimentary local SIM card loaded with 10GB data for seamless connectivity.

Passengers who booked Economy tickets can bid for upgrades to Business or First Class up to four hours before departure, gaining access to fully reclining seats and gourmet meals. Loyalty members enjoy an additional bonus on miles for successful bids. The Etihad Guest loyalty program rewards travelers who reach Silver status with free access to the luxurious Etihad Lounge at Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport, featuring vast buffets, bars, and a relaxing atmosphere.

Staying connected in-flight is made easy with free messaging on popular apps for all loyalty members, while First Class and Platinum members enjoy complimentary full Wi-Fi. For sports fans, Etihad streams live major sporting events on longer flights, ensuring passengers don’t miss crucial matches. Lastly, the airline offers the exceptional A380 multi-room private Residence suite on select routes, featuring a bedroom with a double bed, an ensuite bathroom with a shower, a plush living room, personalized dining, and even a spa treatment at the airport.

These features, along with attentive service and innovative amenities such as pre-order shopping and the Flying Nanny childcare service, make Etihad Airways a standout choice for travelers seeking comfort, luxury, and unique experiences from their flight.

Singapore Changi Airport is widely recognized as a premier dining destination, celebrated for its extensive range of food offerings catering to diverse tastes and budgets. Unlike typical airports known for overpriced and mediocre meals, Changi has curated a compelling food experience that attracts not only travelers but also many locals who regularly visit for casual dining and family outings.

The airport features over 300 dining establishments across its terminals and the Jewel Changi Airport complex, including casual eateries, food courts replicating Singapore’s famous hawker centers, and upscale restaurants. Its culinary variety ranges from local favorites like laksa, chicken rice, and roti prata to international cuisines such as Korean bibimbap and Indian specialties, tailored to the predominant flows of travelers in each terminal. Family-friendly options like Crown Prince Kitchenette are especially popular with locals.

Changi Airport Group maintains hands-on involvement in planning food and beverage outlets, focusing on passenger flow, seating comfort, and pricing equity with popular city locales like Orchard Road. Affordable prices, such as $2 coffees, are deliberately offered alongside premium dining experiences. Jewel Changi adds a unique dimension with spacious dining venues showcasing both global brands and local favorites, fostering a vibrant gastronomic hub.

Several new restaurants have launched recently, including Claypot Daddy and Gwangjang Gaon, blending affordable meals with authentic regional flavors. Innovative concepts such as a guided food trail game enhance engagement for both visitors and locals. Airport dining also adapts to operational constraints like kitchen exhaust limitations, ensuring quality and convenience with curated menus.

With ongoing expansion plans for Terminal 5, Changi aims to further broaden its dining portfolio with larger restaurants and more diverse offerings, securing its place as a world-leading airport culinary destination that celebrates Singapore’s rich food culture while meeting the needs of global travelers.

Dubai  Saudi Arabia’s General Directorate of Passports has unveiled a 60-day grace period allowing visitors with expired visit visas to leave the country legally without facing penalties. The initiative, which took effect on July 26, 2025 (1 Safar 1447 AH), applies to all categories of visit visas, including tourist, family, business, Umrah, and transit visas that have expired.

This window offers a final opportunity for eligible visitors to extend their visas solely for the purpose of a lawful exit from the Kingdom. Visitors are urged to settle any outstanding fines or fees through official channels using the “Sadad” payment system before completing the visa extension and departure process.

The move reflects Saudi Arabia’s ongoing commitment to providing flexible, humanitarian, and administrative solutions to residency violations, aiming to facilitate smooth and compliant departures for overstaying visitors without imposing additional burdens. Authorities called on affected individuals to act promptly within the 60-day timeframe to avoid legal repercussions and regularize their status through organized procedures.

This significant extension builds upon an earlier 30-day grace period initiated in June 2025, reinforcing the Kingdom’s efforts to streamline residency compliance amid growing travel demands. Visitors must use the Ministry of Interior’s “Absher” platform to apply for the extension and finalize their exit arrangements within the designated period. Failure to comply may result in fines or legal consequences.

This updated grace period is expected to alleviate pressure on both visitors and authorities, promoting orderly exits and maintaining Saudi Arabia’s image as a visitor-friendly destination.