Every year, millions of travelers set out to explore the world, drawn to destinations that offer unforgettable experiences, rich histories, and vibrant cultures. The most visited countries in the world are those that have mastered the art of welcoming visitors, blending iconic landmarks with local charm and modern comforts.

From the romantic streets of Paris to the sun-soaked beaches of Thailand, these top destinations promise adventure, discovery, and memories that last a lifetime. Whether you’re seeking art, history, nature, or simply new flavors, these countries stand out for their ability to captivate and inspire. So, let’s take a closer look at the top 10 most visited countries in the world and discover what makes each one truly special.

1. France: The Epitome of Elegance and Culture

Annual Visitors: 89.4 million
Signature Experiences: Parisian landmarks, wine regions, Mediterranean coastlines

France is more than just a country-it’s a global icon of art, gastronomy, and romance. Paris, the “City of Light,” dazzles with the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and the Seine River. But France’s magic extends far beyond its capital. Regions like Provence, with its lavender fields and charming villages, and Bordeaux, renowned for its world-class vineyards, offer a taste of la belle vie.

The French Riviera, home to glamorous cities like Nice and Cannes, attracts sun-seekers and celebrities alike. France’s culinary scene is legendary, from buttery croissants to Michelin-starred feasts, and its cultural calendar is packed with events like the Cannes Film Festival and the Tour de France.

2. Spain: A Tapestry of Sun, Culture, and History

Annual Visitors: 83.7 million
Signature Experiences: Flamenco, Gaudí’s architecture, Mediterranean beaches

Spain’s vibrant energy and rich heritage make it a perennial favorite. Barcelona’s Sagrada Família and Park Güell showcase the genius of Antoni Gaudí, while Madrid’s Prado Museum and Royal Palace celebrate the nation’s artistic legacy. The beaches of Costa del Sol and the Balearic Islands draw sun worshippers, while the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route offers spiritual seekers a unique journey.

Spain’s festivals, from the running of the bulls in Pamplona to La Tomatina in Buñol, are legendary for their passion and pageantry. And let’s not forget the tapas, paella, and sangria that make every meal a celebration.

3. United States: A Land of Endless Possibilities

Annual Visitors: 79.3 million
Signature Experiences: National parks, iconic cities, entertainment capitals

The United States is a vast playground for travelers. New York City’s skyline, Hollywood’s glamour, and Las Vegas’s neon lights are just the beginning. The country’s national parks-Yellowstone, Yosemite, and the Grand Canyon-offer some of the world’s most breathtaking natural scenery.

Theme parks like Disney World and Universal Studios are magnets for families, while cities like Chicago, San Francisco, and Miami each offer their own unique flavors. The US’s cultural diversity, innovative spirit, and world-class infrastructure make it a destination for every kind of traveler.

4. China: Where Ancient Meets Modern

Annual Visitors: 65.7 million
Signature Experiences: Great Wall, Forbidden City, megacities

China’s blend of ancient history and futuristic innovation is unparalleled. The Great Wall, a marvel of human engineering, winds through dramatic landscapes, while Beijing’s Forbidden City and Xi’an’s Terracotta Army reveal the grandeur of imperial China.

Modern metropolises like Shanghai and Shenzhen dazzle with skyscrapers, high-speed trains, and cutting-edge technology. China’s culinary diversity, from Peking duck to Sichuan hotpot, is a feast for the senses, and its festivals, such as Chinese New Year, are spectacles of color and tradition.

5. Italy: A Feast for the Senses

Annual Visitors: 64.5 million
Signature Experiences: Roman ruins, Renaissance art, Mediterranean cuisine

Italy is a living museum of art, history, and gastronomy. Rome’s Colosseum and Vatican City are must-sees, while Venice’s canals and Florence’s Uffizi Gallery enchant art lovers. The Amalfi Coast’s dramatic cliffs and Tuscany’s rolling vineyards offer postcard-perfect scenery.

Italian cuisine, from Neapolitan pizza to gelato, is a global favorite, and the country’s wine regions produce some of the world’s finest vintages. Italy’s warm hospitality and timeless beauty ensure that every visit is unforgettable.

6. Turkey: Where East Meets West

Annual Visitors: 51.2 million
Signature Experiences: Istanbul’s skyline, Cappadocia’s landscapes, ancient ruins

Turkey’s unique position straddling Europe and Asia makes it a cultural crossroads. Istanbul, with its Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, is a city of contrasts, where minarets pierce the sky and bustling bazaars overflow with treasures.

Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys and hot air balloon rides offer a surreal experience, while the ancient ruins of Ephesus and the travertine terraces of Pamukkale are windows into the past. Turkish cuisine, from kebabs to baklava, is a delight, and the country’s hospitality is legendary.

7. Mexico: A Celebration of Color and Tradition

Annual Visitors: 45.0 million
Signature Experiences: Mayan ruins, colonial cities, Pacific beaches

Mexico’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty make it a top destination in the Americas. The ancient city of Chichén Itzá, the colonial charm of Oaxaca, and the vibrant energy of Mexico City each tell a different story.

The country’s beaches-Cancún, Tulum, and Puerto Vallarta-are world-renowned for their beauty and hospitality. Mexican cuisine, recognized by UNESCO, is a feast of flavors, from street tacos to mole. Festivals like Día de los Muertos and Carnival bring the country’s traditions to life in vivid color.

8. Thailand: The Land of Smiles

Annual Visitors: 39.8 million
Signature Experiences: Tropical islands, Buddhist temples, bustling markets

Thailand’s warm hospitality, stunning landscapes, and rich culture make it a favorite in Southeast Asia. Bangkok’s Grand Palace and floating markets, Chiang Mai’s temples, and the idyllic islands of Phuket and Koh Samui offer endless variety.

Thai cuisine, from pad Thai to green curry, is beloved worldwide, and the country’s affordability and friendly locals ensure a welcoming experience for every traveler.

9. Germany: Heart of Europe’s History and Innovation

Annual Visitors: 39.6 million
Signature Experiences: Castles, Oktoberfest, scenic landscapes

Germany’s blend of medieval charm and modern efficiency is irresistible. Bavaria’s fairy-tale castles, the Rhine Valley’s vineyards, and Berlin’s vibrant arts scene each offer a unique perspective.

Oktoberfest in Munich is the world’s largest beer festival, drawing millions to celebrate Bavarian culture. Germany’s efficient transport, historic sites, and commitment to sustainability make it a model for European travel.

10. United Kingdom: A Kingdom of Heritage and Diversity

Annual Visitors: 39.4 million
Signature Experiences: London landmarks, Scottish castles, literary history

The United Kingdom’s rich history and cultural diversity are on full display. London’s Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and the British Museum are global icons, while Edinburgh’s castle and the Scottish Highlands offer dramatic scenery.

The UK’s literary heritage, from Shakespeare to Harry Potter, and its royal traditions continue to captivate visitors from around the world.

Why These Countries Lead the World in Tourism

These top 10 countries have mastered the art of blending tradition with innovation, offering something for every traveler. Their world-class infrastructure, rich cultural heritage, and commitment to hospitality ensure that visitors leave with unforgettable memories and a desire to return.

Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural enrichment, these destinations are the gold standard of global tourism-each a world unto itself, waiting to be explored.

As of mid-2025, the landscape of international mobility is more competitive than ever, as highlighted by the latest Henley Passport Index. This year's report underscores the impact of expanding visa-waiver programs, evolving geopolitical dynamics, and proactive diplomatic efforts on global travel freedom.

Overview of the Top Passports

The global average passport allows access to 109 destinations, but the most powerful passports offer far greater advantages. Based on Henley’s July 2025 findings, the following countries boast the highest-ranking passports:

1. Singapore

Singapore continues to lead the pack with its passport granting access to 193 destinations without requiring prior visas. The nation’s success stems from its strategic diplomatic initiatives and a stable economic environment, which have been pivotal in securing travel freedoms for its citizens. Singapore's Foreign Ministry has been proactive in fostering mutual visa waivers and strengthening diplomatic ties globally, allowing its citizens to enjoy seamless travel across continents.

2. Japan

Japan shares the second position, offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 190 destinations. The Japanese government actively pursues bilateral visa-waiver agreements, particularly focusing on Latin America and Southeast Asia to enhance travel mobility. In 2025, Japan expanded its agreements to include countries like Brazil and Vietnam, showcasing its commitment to increasing international connectivity. Japan’s passport is further strengthened by its low overstay rates and high document integrity.

3. Denmark

Denmark ranks third, allowing its citizens to travel to 189 destinations with ease. The Danish government's extensive network of over 60 reciprocal visa-exemption treaties, complemented by its Schengen membership, bolsters its passport's strength.

Denmark has recently signed new agreements with Caribbean nations and Central Asian states, enhancing travel opportunities for its citizens. The country’s robust governance and clear immigration policies are key factors in maintaining its strong mobility ranking.

4. Austria

In fourth place, Austria provides access to 188 destinations. Utilizing its neutral stance in international diplomacy and active participation in the Schengen Zone, Austria negotiates favorable visa agreements, especially with countries in Africa and South America. The Austrian passport features advanced biometric security, and the country is known for its comprehensive diplomatic assistance, which helps its citizens navigate international travel with ease.

5. Greece

Greece holds the fifth spot, enabling its citizens to visit 187 destinations without pre-arrival visas. The country’s EU membership and its strategic Mediterranean location facilitate the expansion of visa-waiver agreements.

In 2025, Greece added new agreements with several Pacific and Central American nations to its portfolio. The Greek Tourism Organization works closely with the Foreign Ministry to promote these travel freedoms, leveraging Greece's cultural diplomacy to enhance global mobility.

6. United Kingdom

The United Kingdom ranks sixth, with access to 186 destinations without needing pre-departure visas. Despite the complexities following Brexit, the UK effectively utilizes its Commonwealth connections to maintain robust travel freedoms.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) is continually working on expanding reciprocal visa-waiver agreements, recently securing enhanced access for its citizens to Gulf Cooperation Council members, which has been vital for business and tourism.

7. Australia

Australia comes in seventh place, offering access to 185 destinations. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade actively promotes travel through bilateral agreements and APEC Business Travel Cards, enhancing its citizens' mobility.

Australia’s image as an open, globally connected nation is reinforced through various tourism campaigns that highlight these travel freedoms. The country’s high passport security standards and low overstay rates further support its strong position in the rankings.

8. United Arab Emirates

The UAE occupies eighth place, providing its citizens with access to 184 destinations visa-free or with on-arrival options. Since 2015, the UAE has secured over 40 new visa-waiver agreements, showcasing its commitment to expanding travel privileges. The UAE’s proactive diplomatic efforts have resulted in recent agreements with numerous African and Latin American countries, contributing to its rapid rise in the passport rankings.

9. Croatia

Croatia ranks ninth, allowing citizens to travel to 183 destinations easily. The country’s entry into the Schengen Zone in 2023 significantly improved its passport power by facilitating new visa-exemption agreements, particularly with Southeast Asian nations. The Croatian government actively promotes its tourism and cultural heritage, enhancing its diplomatic outreach and encouraging more bilateral agreements.

10. Iceland

Rounding out the top ten, Iceland offers access to 182 destinations. As a member of the Schengen Area, Iceland benefits from enhanced mobility rights and actively negotiates additional bilateral agreements through the Ministry of Justice and the Interior. Iceland's reputation for political neutrality, along with its secure biometric passports, supports its strong global standing, making it a favorable passport for international travelers.

Insights into Ranking Methodology

The Henley Passport Index is built on data sourced from IATA’s Timatic database, which compiles visa regulations from governmental and embassy announcements. The index evaluates only those destinations that permit visa-free entry or visa-on-arrival access, excluding electronic visas and pre-departure applications. This focus provides a clear snapshot of immediate travel freedom.

The 2025 rankings emphasize the critical role of diplomatic relationships, regional integration, and strategic outreach in shaping passport power. As global travel continues to rebound and evolve post-pandemic, these rankings serve as a vital benchmark for assessing the mobility opportunities available to citizens around the world.

The United States, while still within the top ten, has seen a decline in its ranking, marking its lowest position in two decades. This shift underscores the growing competition in passport strength and the need for ongoing diplomatic efforts to maintain travel freedoms.

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.

Gisborne Airport in New Zealand stands out as the only airport in the world where a railway line crosses directly through the middle of its main runway. Located on the eastern coast of New Zealand’s North Island, the airport is uniquely intersected by the Palmerston North–Gisborne railway line, which divides the main runway nearly in half.

This remarkable feature means that planes and trains must take turns using the shared path—when a train is scheduled to cross, aircraft must wait, and vice versa. The airport actively manages railway signals, ensuring that trains can be halted to allow safe landing and takeoff of planes.

Operations at both the airport and the railway typically run from 6:30 am to 8:30 pm daily; after hours, the runway is closed for safety. Coordinating schedules for both means precise planning is required, as each entity must yield to ensure smooth operations—a logistical feat managed by airport staff.

Notably, while Wynyard Airport in Tasmania once had a similar arrangement, it stopped rail operations in 2005, leaving Gisborne as the sole airport worldwide with this active crossover today.

Despite being a regional airport, Gisborne handles over 60 domestic flights per week and serves more than 150,000 passengers each year. The sight of a train and an aircraft patiently waiting for one another on the runway often fascinates travelers and is a popular topic on social media.

In addition to its engineering novelty, Gisborne Airport is a key entry point to the region’s natural attractions, but it is the rare intersection of rail and air transport that makes it unique in the aviation world.

On 22 July 2025, Dubai, UAE, the Emirates Group launched an extensive global talent acquisition campaign aimed at recruiting 17,300 professionals during the current financial year. This hiring goal is symbolic, matching the population size of a mid-size town or the seating capacity of 58 Airbus A350 aircraft. The recruitment drive is part of the Group’s ongoing expansion strategy, reinforcing its industry-leading position.

The available opportunities span across 350 different roles across Emirates and dnata, the two flagship businesses under the Group. Emirates, recognized as the world’s most profitable and largest international airline, along with dnata, a global leader in air and travel services, are looking to fill positions that include cabin crew, pilots, engineers, commercial and sales teams, customer service, ground handling, catering, IT, human resources, and finance. Notably, dnata alone seeks over 4,000 specialists in cargo, catering, and ground handling operations.

HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline & Group, emphasized that this ambitious recruitment is aligned with Dubai’s Economic Agenda D33 and the Group’s growth trajectory. He expressed that the goal is to attract world-class talent capable of driving innovation, excellence, and the future transformation of the aviation industry. He views this initiative as an opportunity for skilled professionals to become integral to the Group’s ongoing success and expansion.

To reach potential candidates globally, the Emirates Group will hold over 2,100 open days and various talent acquisition events across 150 cities throughout the year. These events will provide a chance for prospective pilots, IT professionals, engineers, and cabin crew members to engage directly with recruitment teams and long-serving Emirates employees sharing their experiences. In addition to international outreach, Dubai-based events will focus on involving UAE national students and graduates, supporting national workforce development.

Since 2022, the Emirates Group has recruited more than 41,000 professionals, with nearly 27,000 in operational roles, contributing to the current workforce size of approximately 121,000 employees. The Group continues to be a magnet for talent around the world due to its strong brand reputation, people-centric policies, tax-free remuneration, comprehensive benefits, and esteemed training and career development programs.

In the past financial year alone, the Group received in excess of 3.7 million job applications, illustrating its global appeal. Candidates are drawn to Dubai not only for professional opportunities but also for the city’s safety, economic stability, advanced technological infrastructure, forward-looking policies, and vibrant lifestyle.

For those residing in Dubai and working for the Emirates Group, benefits are extensive, including eligibility for profit sharing, comprehensive medical and life insurance coverage, a wide array of travel benefits encompassing annual and service-related leave tickets, concessional rates for family and friends, discounted cargo rates, and membership privileges unlocking reductions at hundreds of retail, hospitality, and lifestyle destinations.

Candidates interested in joining the Emirates Group can explore available positions and upcoming recruitment events worldwide by visiting the Group’s official careers portal. This recruitment drive showcases the Emirates Group’s unwavering commitment to growth, innovation, and maintaining its status as a global employer of choice, while welcoming talented professionals prepared to contribute to shaping the future of aviation.

In a landmark move to simplify travel and enhance bilateral relations, Kuwaiti citizens can now apply for Indian e-visas entirely online beginning Monday, July 14, 2025. The announcement was made by Dr. Adarsh Swaika, India’s Ambassador to Kuwait, who described the launch as a “qualitative shift” in India-Kuwait engagement.

The new digital platform covers five visa categories: tourism, business, medical, conference, and AYUSH (alternative medicine including yoga and Ayurveda). Applicants no longer need to visit visa centers; all steps including application submission, document upload, and payment are completed online.

Key features of the e-visa system include:

Tourist visas valid for up to five years at a fee of $80
Other visa fees range from $40 to $80 depending on type and duration
Biometric data collection upon arrival at Indian airports
Typical processing time of three to four days, with minor technical issues possible during rollout

Ambassador Swaika emphasized that this initiative responds to a long-standing request from Kuwaiti citizens and reflects the deep historic and cultural ties between the two nations. The move also aligns with India’s broader efforts to modernize consular services and strengthen diplomatic and people-to-people connections in the Gulf region.

The e-visa allows for a variety of short-term activities such as tourism, business meetings, medical treatment (including under Indian traditional medicine systems), attending conferences, and participation in yoga or Ayurveda programs.

Applicants must hold a passport valid for at least six months and possess a return or onward ticket. The Indian Consulate in Kuwait will continue to accept paper visa applications for those who prefer traditional processing.

This digital visa rollout is expected to boost travel, trade, and cultural exchange between India and Kuwait, supporting the growing interest among Kuwaitis in Indian tourism, healthcare, and business opportunities.
For more information and to apply, Kuwaiti citizens can access the official Indian e-visa portal, which provides guidance in both English and Arabic.

This development marks a significant step forward in facilitating seamless cross-border travel and enhancing the longstanding friendship between India and Kuwait.