US visa interview in Dubai and Abu Dhabi
Applying for a US visitor visa as a UAE resident: DS-160, appointments, the interview and the documents to carry.
UAE residents usually apply for a US visitor visa (B1/B2) in the UAE, with the interview at the US Consulate General in Dubai or the US Embassy in Abu Dhabi. Searches peak in January, ahead of summer travel, which is exactly the time to start. The process is the same for every nationality, but what the officer looks for depends a lot on your residence and ties to the UAE.
Here's how to apply, what to expect at the interview and the documents to carry. It reflects the position at the time of writing (October 2026).
Can you apply in the UAE?
Since September 2025, applicants must generally apply in their country of nationality or residence. UAE residents with a valid residence visa can apply in the UAE. If your residence is new or due to expire soon, talk to us before booking.
The steps
- DS-160: complete the online application carefully. The officer reads it before you speak.
- Fee: the visa application fee is US$185. A separate US$250 visa integrity fee was introduced by US law in 2025; we confirm whether it's being collected when you apply.
- Appointment: book your interview at the Dubai Consulate or Abu Dhabi Embassy.
- Interview: attend in person, with your documents.
- Passport return: if approved, your passport is returned with the visa, usually within one to two weeks.
Most applicants must attend an interview. Some renewals within a short period may qualify for an interview waiver; we check eligibility first.
What the officer is looking for
- Purpose: a clear reason for the trip: tourism, family, business meetings or a conference.
- Funds: the means to pay for the trip without working in the US.
- Ties: reasons to return: your job and residence in the UAE, family, property and travel history.
For expatriates, ties to the UAE are central. A stable job, a residence visa well beyond your travel dates and family living with you all help. Previous travel to the US, UK, Schengen or Canada also strengthens your profile.
Questions you are likely to hear
- Why are you travelling to the US, and for how long?
- Where do you work in the UAE, and what do you do?
- How long have you lived in the UAE?
- Who will you stay with, and what is their status in the US?
- Who is paying for your trip?
- Is your family travelling with you?
- Have you travelled abroad before?
How to answer
- Be brief, clear and honest.
- Keep your answers consistent with your DS-160.
- Speak confidently in your own words; don't memorise scripts.
- Offer documents only when asked, but have them organised.
Documents to carry
- Passport and all old passports
- UAE residence visa and Emirates ID
- DS-160 confirmation and appointment letter
- Salary certificate or employer letter with leave approval
- Bank statements for the last six months
- Trade licence and company documents, if self-employed
- Itinerary and hotel bookings, or an invitation if visiting family
- For business: a letter from your employer and an invitation from the US company
When to apply
Interview waiting times change through the year. For summer travel, start in January or February. Don't book non-refundable flights until the visa is issued. We monitor appointments and move you to an earlier slot when one opens.
After the interview
- Approved: visa validity depends on your nationality, and can be up to ten years for some passports. Each stay is decided at the US border.
- Administrative processing: the officer needs more information or checks. Respond quickly.
- Refused under 214(b): the officer wasn't convinced of your ties. You can reapply when your circumstances have meaningfully changed.
Visa Waiver nationals
If your passport is in the US Visa Waiver Program, such as British, most EU and Japanese passports, you can usually travel with an ESTA authorisation instead of a visa. Check eligibility before applying.
We complete the DS-160 with you, book the interview, look for earlier slots and run a practice interview. See US visa from the UAE.
Questions, answered
Can I apply for a US visa in Dubai as an expatriate?
Yes, if you hold a valid UAE residence visa. Applicants must generally apply in their country of nationality or residence.
Where are US visa interviews held in the UAE?
At the US Consulate General in Dubai and the US Embassy in Abu Dhabi.
How much is the US tourist visa fee in the UAE?
US$185 for the B1/B2 visa. A US$250 visa integrity fee was introduced by law in 2025; we confirm whether it applies when you apply.
When should I apply for a US visa for summer travel?
In January or February. Interview waits change through the year and summer is the busiest period.
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