Due to a backlog caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, the US Embassy in the UAE is taking measures to expedite visa appointments, which are currently available only after a year.
Ron Packowitz, the country consular coordinator, highlighted the increased demand for travel to the US, both from the UAE and globally. The pandemic limited visa interviews, leading to the backlog, but efforts are underway to expand capacity and hasten the appointment process.
The closest available date for an appointment in Dubai is October 18, 2024, and November 2024 in Abu Dhabi. The embassy is prioritizing certain applicants, including students, those with medical emergencies, urgent business travel, and people with expired visas.
Packowitz advised residents to plan at least a year ahead for US travel and recommended checking the embassy’s official website for additional daily appointments.
