US Visa Appointments in the UAE: Long Waits and Limited Services
US visa services in the UAE were disrupted through 2026, with routine services suspended in July and long waits since. Plan well ahead and verify current status.
The Situation Has Been Difficult
This is not an article about new appointment availability. Through 2026, US visa services in the UAE were significantly disrupted, and applicants should plan on that basis.
Routine US visa services in the UAE were suspended on 13 July 2026, with non-emergency staff relocated. Limited nonimmigrant visa appointments became available again from around 1 August 2026, while immigrant visa services remained suspended.
Waits Have Been Long
Reported waits during 2026 have been substantial — in the region of many months rather than weeks, and at points well beyond a year for some categories at some posts. Work visa categories in particular saw some of the longest average waits worldwide.
Because the position changed repeatedly through the year, the only reliable source is the official one. Check ae.usembassy.gov and the US Department of State's visa appointment wait-time tool before making any plans.
Practical Points for UAE Residents
- You may generally apply at either post. UAE residents can typically apply at the Embassy in Abu Dhabi or the Consulate General in Dubai regardless of which emirate they live in — and wait times have differed noticeably between the two.
- New appointment slots are released on a schedule. Appointments at the UAE posts have been released on Friday mornings, local time, outside holidays. Checking at the right moment matters.
- Do not book travel first. With waits of this length, book nothing non-refundable until you hold the visa.
- Start early. If you know you will need a US visa within the next year, begin now rather than when the trip firms up.
A Word on "Faster Appointment" Offers
Be extremely cautious of anyone offering guaranteed or expedited US visa appointments for a fee. Appointment availability is controlled by the US mission. Expedited appointment requests exist for genuine emergencies and are decided by the consular section, not by an agency.
How We Help
We prepare your DS-160 and supporting documentation and provide interview preparation, so that when your appointment does arrive you are ready for it. We have no influence over appointment availability and will never claim otherwise.
