US Visa from the UAE in 2026: What to Do While Routine Appointments Are Suspended

If you have tried to book a US visa interview in the UAE recently, you have probably seen that there are no routine appointments. Here is a clear summary of the situation and what UAE residents can do.

What is happening?

Because of the regional security situation, the U.S. Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the U.S. Consulate General in Dubai have suspended routine visa services. The mission has been operating with reduced staff since March 2026, and appointments have been cancelled several times. At the time of writing, no reopening date has been announced.

Important: this situation can change quickly. Always check the official U.S. Embassy UAE website before making plans, or ask us for the latest update.

Who is affected?

Anyone who needs a B1/B2 visitor visa (tourism, family visits, business trips) and planned to interview in the UAE
Applicants whose UAE appointments were cancelled
Students and workers who needed routine interviews in the UAE

Citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries who travel on ESTA are not affected by the interview suspension, because they do not need a visa interview.

Your options right now

Apply in your country of nationality. US guidance directs nonimmigrant applicants to apply in their country of nationality or residence. Many UAE residents are choosing to interview during a trip home.
Prepare now, book later. Complete your DS-160, collect your documents and be ready to book as soon as UAE appointments reopen.
Check if you qualify for ESTA. If you hold a passport from a Visa Waiver Program country, you may not need a visa at all.
Keep an eye on emergency options. For genuine emergencies, follow the instructions on the official embassy website.

How the US visa process works (once you can book)

Complete the DS-160 online form – see our DS-160 guide
Pay the visa application fee
Book the interview at the embassy or consulate where you will apply
Attend the interview with your passport, DS-160 confirmation and supporting documents

Documents to have ready

Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your stay
DS-160 confirmation page and fee receipt
Proof of employment and income (salary certificate, bank statements)
Proof of ties to your home country or the UAE (job, family, property)
Travel plan and, if visiting family, an invitation

How Travelax can help

We prepare your DS-160 and document file now, advise you on where you can interview, and alert you as soon as UAE appointments reopen. See our USA visa page or message us on WhatsApp.

Frequently asked questions

Can I get a US visa interview in Dubai right now?

Not for routine visas at the moment. Routine visa services at the U.S. Embassy Abu Dhabi and Consulate Dubai are suspended, with no reopening date announced.

Can I apply for a US visa in my home country instead?

Yes. US guidance is to apply in your country of nationality or residence, so many UAE residents are interviewing during a trip home.

Do I need to redo my DS-160 if my appointment was cancelled?

Not necessarily. Your DS-160 can often be reused if your details have not changed, but you must update it if you apply at a different location. We check this for you.

Please note: visa rules change often. This guide is general information for UAE residents and was last reviewed on 24 Sep 2026. Always confirm the current requirements for your nationality before you apply – our consultants do this for free. Travelax is a private agency and is not affiliated with any embassy or government.