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Every Embassy & Consulate You Need for Visa Applications

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Embassy Guides26 February 202612 min readBy Ahmed Al Rashid

Complete List of Embassies & Consulates in Dubai [2026]

Where are the embassies and consulates in Dubai?

Most embassies are in Abu Dhabi (UAE capital), while Dubai hosts consulates general for many countries. Major consulates in Dubai are concentrated in areas like Bur Dubai, Trade Centre, and Jumeirah. For visa applications, many countries now use VFS Global or TLS Contact centres in Dubai instead of direct embassy visits.

Countries Represented: 100+Dubai Consulates: 70+Abu Dhabi Embassies: 90+Via VFS/TLS: 40+ countries

Key Takeaway

  • Most embassies are in Abu Dhabi (UAE capital), while Dubai hosts consulates general for many countries. Major consulates...
  • Countries Represented: 100+
  • Dubai Consulates: 70+
  • Abu Dhabi Embassies: 90+
  • Via VFS/TLS: 40+ countries

Dubai and Abu Dhabi host diplomatic missions from more than 100 countries, making the UAE one of the most diplomatically connected hubs in the Middle East. For the millions of expatriates and residents who need to apply for visas, authenticate documents, or access consular services, knowing exactly where each embassy or consulate is located and how to reach them is essential.

This guide provides a comprehensive list of the most important embassies and consulates in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, organised by region. We include physical addresses, phone numbers, and practical guidance on whether you should apply directly at the embassy or through a visa application centre such as VFS Global or TLS Contact. If you are planning a visa application from the UAE, bookmark this page as your go-to reference.

It is important to note that most embassies are located in Abu Dhabi (the capital), while Dubai hosts consulates general. For visa applications, you can typically apply at the consulate in Dubai if one exists. Where only an embassy in Abu Dhabi serves your destination, we note that clearly.

Embassy vs Consulate: Which Do You Need?

Before diving into the list, it is helpful to understand the difference between an embassy and a consulate. An embassy is the main diplomatic mission of a country, headed by an ambassador, and is always located in the host country's capital city, which in the UAE is Abu Dhabi. A consulate general is a secondary diplomatic office usually located in a major commercial city like Dubai, headed by a consul general.

For visa applications, consulates general in Dubai handle most routine visa processing, which means you usually do not need to travel to Abu Dhabi. However, some countries maintain only an embassy in Abu Dhabi with no consulate in Dubai, requiring applicants to either visit Abu Dhabi or use a visa application centre. An increasing number of countries have outsourced their visa application intake to centres like VFS Global and TLS Contact, which operate multiple branches in Dubai.

Quick Rule of Thumb

  • If a consulate general exists in Dubai, apply there for faster service
  • If only an embassy in Abu Dhabi exists, check if VFS Global or TLS Contact handles applications in Dubai
  • Some countries require in-person interviews at the embassy (e.g., US, some Schengen countries)
  • Always verify on the embassy or consulate website which location handles your specific visa type

European Embassies & Consulates

European diplomatic missions in the UAE are among the busiest for visa applications, particularly for Schengen visas. Most European countries now process visa applications through VFS Global or TLS Contact rather than at the embassy or consulate directly. Below are the key European diplomatic missions with their locations and visa application channels.

European Embassies & Consulates in the UAE

Key European diplomatic missions for visa applicants

France

Mission Type
Embassy (Abu Dhabi) + Consulate (Dubai)
Location
Abu Dhabi: Al Bateen / Dubai: API World Tower, Sheikh Zayed Road
Visa Applications Via
TLS Contact Dubai

Germany

Mission Type
Embassy (Abu Dhabi) + Consulate (Dubai)
Location
Abu Dhabi: Al Nahyan / Dubai: API World Tower, Sheikh Zayed Road
Visa Applications Via
VFS Global Dubai

Italy

Mission Type
Embassy (Abu Dhabi) + Consulate (Dubai)
Location
Abu Dhabi: Al Nahyan / Dubai: API World Tower, Sheikh Zayed Road
Visa Applications Via
VFS Global Dubai

Spain

Mission Type
Embassy (Abu Dhabi) + Consulate (Dubai)
Location
Abu Dhabi: Al Mushrif / Dubai: Jumeirah Lake Towers
Visa Applications Via
BLS International Dubai

United Kingdom

Mission Type
Embassy (Abu Dhabi) + Consulate (Dubai)
Location
Abu Dhabi: Al Bateen / Dubai: Al Seef Road, Bur Dubai
Visa Applications Via
VFS Global Dubai (Oud Metha)

Netherlands

Mission Type
Embassy (Abu Dhabi) + Consulate (Dubai)
Location
Abu Dhabi: Al Bateen / Dubai: World Trade Centre Area
Visa Applications Via
VFS Global Dubai

Switzerland

Mission Type
Embassy (Abu Dhabi) + Consulate (Dubai)
Location
Abu Dhabi: Al Nahyan / Dubai: Jumeirah Emirates Towers
Visa Applications Via
VFS Global Dubai

Austria

Mission Type
Embassy (Abu Dhabi)
Location
Abu Dhabi: Diplomatic Area
Visa Applications Via
VFS Global Dubai

Belgium

Mission Type
Embassy (Abu Dhabi)
Location
Abu Dhabi: Al Mushrif
Visa Applications Via
TLS Contact Dubai

Greece

Mission Type
Embassy (Abu Dhabi) + Consulate (Dubai)
Location
Abu Dhabi: Al Khalidiya / Dubai: Deira
Visa Applications Via
VFS Global Dubai

Portugal

Mission Type
Embassy (Abu Dhabi)
Location
Abu Dhabi: Al Bateen
Visa Applications Via
VFS Global Dubai

Czech Republic

Mission Type
Embassy (Abu Dhabi)
Location
Abu Dhabi: Al Bateen
Visa Applications Via
VFS Global Dubai

Poland

Mission Type
Embassy (Abu Dhabi)
Location
Abu Dhabi: Al Nahyan
Visa Applications Via
VFS Global Dubai

Denmark

Mission Type
Embassy (Abu Dhabi)
Location
Abu Dhabi: Al Bateen
Visa Applications Via
VFS Global Dubai

Sweden

Mission Type
Embassy (Abu Dhabi)
Location
Abu Dhabi: Al Bateen
Visa Applications Via
VFS Global Dubai

Norway

Mission Type
Embassy (Abu Dhabi)
Location
Abu Dhabi: Al Bateen
Visa Applications Via
VFS Global Dubai

Finland

Mission Type
Embassy (Abu Dhabi)
Location
Abu Dhabi: Al Mushrif
Visa Applications Via
VFS Global Dubai

Ireland

Mission Type
Embassy (Abu Dhabi)
Location
Abu Dhabi: Al Bateen
Visa Applications Via
Direct at Embassy

Hungary

Mission Type
Embassy (Abu Dhabi)
Location
Abu Dhabi: Al Bateen
Visa Applications Via
VFS Global Dubai

Romania

Mission Type
Embassy (Abu Dhabi)
Location
Abu Dhabi: Al Mushrif
Visa Applications Via
Direct at Embassy

Locations and visa processing channels are subject to change. Always verify with the embassy or consulate website before visiting.

For Schengen visa applications, remember that you must apply at the consulate or visa centre of your main destination country (where you will spend the most nights). If your itinerary covers multiple Schengen countries equally, apply at the consulate of the country you will enter first. Most European consulates in Dubai now require online appointment booking through their designated visa application centre.

Asian Embassies & Consulates

Given the large South and Southeast Asian expatriate population in Dubai, Asian diplomatic missions are among the busiest in the UAE. India, Pakistan, the Philippines, and Bangladesh each maintain large consular operations in Dubai to serve their sizeable resident communities. Many Asian countries also process tourist visa applications through their consulates directly rather than through external visa centres.

Asian Embassies & Consulates in the UAE

Key Asian diplomatic missions for visa and consular services

India

Mission Type
Embassy (Abu Dhabi) + Consulate (Dubai)
Location
Abu Dhabi: Diplomatic Area / Dubai: Al Hamriya, Bur Dubai
Visa Applications Via
BLS International / Consulate Direct

Pakistan

Mission Type
Embassy (Abu Dhabi) + Consulate (Dubai)
Location
Abu Dhabi: Sector W-59 / Dubai: Garhoud
Visa Applications Via
Direct at Consulate

Philippines

Mission Type
Embassy (Abu Dhabi) + Consulate (Dubai)
Location
Abu Dhabi: Al Nahyan / Dubai: Al Qusais
Visa Applications Via
Direct at Consulate

Bangladesh

Mission Type
Embassy (Abu Dhabi) + Consulate (Dubai)
Location
Abu Dhabi: Al Nahyan / Dubai: Bur Dubai
Visa Applications Via
Direct at Consulate

China

Mission Type
Embassy (Abu Dhabi) + Consulate (Dubai)
Location
Abu Dhabi: Al Bateen / Dubai: Trade Centre Area
Visa Applications Via
CVASC (Chinese Visa Centre) Dubai

Japan

Mission Type
Embassy (Abu Dhabi) + Consulate (Dubai)
Location
Abu Dhabi: Al Bateen / Dubai: World Trade Centre
Visa Applications Via
Direct at Consulate

South Korea

Mission Type
Embassy (Abu Dhabi) + Consulate (Dubai)
Location
Abu Dhabi: Al Bateen / Dubai: Trade Centre Area
Visa Applications Via
Direct at Consulate

Thailand

Mission Type
Embassy (Abu Dhabi) + Consulate (Dubai)
Location
Abu Dhabi: Al Bateen / Dubai: Al Hudaiba
Visa Applications Via
Direct at Consulate / eVisa

Malaysia

Mission Type
Embassy (Abu Dhabi) + Consulate (Dubai)
Location
Abu Dhabi: Diplomatic Area / Dubai: Deira
Visa Applications Via
Direct at Consulate / eNTRI online

Indonesia

Mission Type
Embassy (Abu Dhabi) + Consulate (Dubai)
Location
Abu Dhabi: Al Bateen / Dubai: Al Barsha
Visa Applications Via
Direct at Consulate

Sri Lanka

Mission Type
Embassy (Abu Dhabi) + Consulate (Dubai)
Location
Abu Dhabi: Al Nahyan / Dubai: Trade Centre
Visa Applications Via
Direct at Consulate / eTA online

Nepal

Mission Type
Embassy (Abu Dhabi)
Location
Abu Dhabi: Al Nahyan
Visa Applications Via
Direct at Embassy / Visa on Arrival

Vietnam

Mission Type
Embassy (Abu Dhabi)
Location
Abu Dhabi: Al Bateen
Visa Applications Via
eVisa online / Direct at Embassy

Singapore

Mission Type
Embassy (Abu Dhabi)
Location
Abu Dhabi: Al Bateen
Visa Applications Via
eVisa online (most nationalities exempt)

Many Asian countries offer eVisa or visa-on-arrival options for UAE residents. Check eligibility before visiting the embassy.

Middle Eastern & African Embassies

The UAE maintains strong diplomatic relations with countries across the Middle East and Africa. Many neighbouring Gulf and Middle Eastern countries do not require visas for UAE residents at all, while African destinations are increasingly opening eVisa channels. Below are the key Middle Eastern and African missions relevant to visa applicants.

Middle Eastern & African Embassies in the UAE

Key diplomatic missions for Middle East and Africa

Egypt

Mission Type
Embassy (Abu Dhabi) + Consulate (Dubai)
Location
Abu Dhabi: Al Bateen / Dubai: Bur Dubai
Visa Applications Via
Direct at Consulate

Jordan

Mission Type
Embassy (Abu Dhabi) + Consulate (Dubai)
Location
Abu Dhabi: Al Bateen / Dubai: Deira
Visa Applications Via
Direct at Consulate / eVisa

Lebanon

Mission Type
Embassy (Abu Dhabi) + Consulate (Dubai)
Location
Abu Dhabi: Al Mushrif / Dubai: Bur Dubai
Visa Applications Via
Direct at Consulate

Turkey

Mission Type
Embassy (Abu Dhabi) + Consulate (Dubai)
Location
Abu Dhabi: Al Bateen / Dubai: Trade Centre
Visa Applications Via
eVisa online (most nationalities)

Iran

Mission Type
Embassy (Abu Dhabi) + Consulate (Dubai)
Location
Abu Dhabi: Al Bateen / Dubai: Jumeirah
Visa Applications Via
Direct at Consulate

Saudi Arabia

Mission Type
Embassy (Abu Dhabi) + Consulate (Dubai)
Location
Abu Dhabi: Al Mushrif / Dubai: Deira
Visa Applications Via
eVisa / Nusuk for Umrah/Hajj

Oman

Mission Type
Embassy (Abu Dhabi) + Consulate (Dubai)
Location
Abu Dhabi: Al Bateen / Dubai: Al Hamriya
Visa Applications Via
eVisa online

South Africa

Mission Type
Embassy (Abu Dhabi) + Consulate (Dubai)
Location
Abu Dhabi: Al Mushrif / Dubai: Trade Centre
Visa Applications Via
VFS Global Dubai

Kenya

Mission Type
Embassy (Abu Dhabi)
Location
Abu Dhabi: Al Bateen
Visa Applications Via
eTA online

Ethiopia

Mission Type
Embassy (Abu Dhabi) + Consulate (Dubai)
Location
Abu Dhabi: Al Nahyan / Dubai: Deira
Visa Applications Via
eVisa online / Direct

Nigeria

Mission Type
Embassy (Abu Dhabi) + Consulate (Dubai)
Location
Abu Dhabi: Al Bateen / Dubai: Trade Centre
Visa Applications Via
Direct at Consulate

Morocco

Mission Type
Embassy (Abu Dhabi) + Consulate (Dubai)
Location
Abu Dhabi: Al Bateen / Dubai: Jumeirah
Visa Applications Via
Direct at Embassy (UAE residents visa-free)

Many Middle Eastern countries offer visa-free or visa-on-arrival access for UAE residents. Verify your eligibility based on your passport nationality.

Americas & Oceania Embassies

The United States and Canada maintain large diplomatic operations in the UAE, with the US Embassy in Abu Dhabi and a Consulate General in Dubai. Visa interviews for the US are conducted at the consulate in Dubai for most applicants. Canadian visa applications are processed through VFS Global. Australian and New Zealand visa applications are primarily handled online or through their respective visa centres.

Americas & Oceania Embassies in the UAE

Key diplomatic missions for the Americas and Pacific region

United States

Mission Type
Embassy (Abu Dhabi) + Consulate (Dubai)
Location
Abu Dhabi: Al Bateen / Dubai: Al Nahda
Visa Applications Via
Direct — US Consulate Dubai (interview required)

Canada

Mission Type
Embassy (Abu Dhabi)
Location
Abu Dhabi: Al Bateen
Visa Applications Via
VFS Global Dubai (online application)

Brazil

Mission Type
Embassy (Abu Dhabi) + Consulate (Dubai)
Location
Abu Dhabi: Al Bateen / Dubai: Trade Centre
Visa Applications Via
Direct at Embassy/Consulate

Mexico

Mission Type
Embassy (Abu Dhabi)
Location
Abu Dhabi: Diplomatic Area
Visa Applications Via
Direct at Embassy / eVisa for some nationalities

Australia

Mission Type
Embassy (Abu Dhabi)
Location
Abu Dhabi: Al Bateen
Visa Applications Via
Online (ImmiAccount) / VFS Global Dubai

New Zealand

Mission Type
Embassy (Abu Dhabi)
Location
Abu Dhabi: Al Bateen
Visa Applications Via
Online (Immigration NZ) / VFS Global Dubai

US visa appointments must be booked through the official US visa scheduling system. Walk-in applications are not accepted.

Visa Application Centres in Dubai

Many countries have outsourced their visa application intake to specialised visa application centres (VACs). These centres handle document collection, biometric capture, appointment scheduling, and passport return on behalf of embassies and consulates. The three main VAC operators in Dubai are VFS Global, TLS Contact, and BLS International. Applying through a VAC is often more convenient than visiting the embassy directly, as they offer longer operating hours, multiple locations, and premium service options.

Major Visa Application Centres in Dubai

VAC operators, locations, and countries served

VFS Global

Key Location
Wafi Mall / Oud Metha, Dubai
Countries Served
UK, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Austria, Switzerland, Canada, Australia, South Africa, and 30+ others
Services
Document submission, biometrics, premium lounge, courier

TLS Contact

Key Location
API Trio Tower, Al Barsha, Dubai
Countries Served
France, Belgium, Morocco
Services
Document submission, biometrics, premium services

BLS International

Key Location
Various locations, Dubai
Countries Served
India, Spain, Portugal
Services
Document submission, biometrics, Aadhaar services (India)

CVASC

Key Location
Trade Centre Area, Dubai
Countries Served
China
Services
Document submission, biometrics, express processing

US Visa Centre

Key Location
Al Nahda, Dubai
Countries Served
United States
Services
Interview scheduling, document drop-off (221g)

VAC locations and operating hours may change. Always verify on the official VAC website before visiting.

When applying through a visa application centre, remember that the VAC is only an intermediary. The actual visa decision is made by the embassy or consulate. VAC staff can verify that your documents are complete according to the checklist, but they cannot assess the strength of your application or predict the outcome. For professional application review and preparation, consider using a visa consultancy service alongside the VAC submission.

Tips for Visiting Embassies and Consulates in Dubai

Visiting an embassy, consulate, or visa application centre for the first time can be stressful. Preparation is key to a smooth experience. The following tips apply whether you are visiting for a visa interview, document submission, or consular services.

Essential Tips for Embassy and Consulate Visits

  • Always book an appointment online before visiting — most missions no longer accept walk-ins for visa services
  • Arrive 15-30 minutes early but not more — some locations have limited waiting areas
  • Bring original documents plus photocopies — consulates may keep copies and return originals
  • Leave electronics (laptops, tablets, large power banks) in your car — most embassies prohibit them inside
  • Dress professionally, especially for visa interviews — first impressions matter
  • Carry printed appointment confirmation and receipt of visa fee payment
  • Plan for parking — embassy areas often have limited or paid parking; consider using public transport or taxis
  • Do not bring food, drinks, or large bags inside the embassy compound
  • Keep your phone on silent and be prepared to surrender it at security for US and some other embassies

Need Help with Your Visa Application?

Navigating the maze of embassies, consulates, and visa application centres can be overwhelming, especially when different countries have different processes, document requirements, and application channels. OraVisa simplifies the entire process by handling your visa application from start to finish, regardless of which embassy or consulate is involved.

  • We identify the correct embassy, consulate, or visa centre for your specific application
  • We prepare and review all your documents according to the exact requirements of your target country
  • We book your appointment and guide you through what to expect at the visa centre or interview
  • We track your application status and keep you informed at every step
  • We handle re-applications if your visa is rejected, with a proven strategy for each destination

Let OraVisa Handle Your Visa Application

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I apply at the embassy in Abu Dhabi or the consulate in Dubai?

If a consulate general exists in Dubai for your destination country, you can apply there. If only an embassy in Abu Dhabi exists, check whether a visa application centre like VFS Global or TLS Contact handles applications in Dubai on behalf of that embassy. Most major destination countries have a Dubai-based application channel.

What is the difference between VFS Global and the actual embassy?

VFS Global is a private company that handles visa application intake, document collection, and biometric capture on behalf of embassies and consulates. The actual visa decision is still made by the embassy or consulate. VFS Global does not approve or reject visas — they simply process the administrative side of the application.

Can I apply for a visa without an appointment?

Most embassies, consulates, and visa application centres in Dubai require an online appointment booking. Walk-in applications are rarely accepted for visa services. Always check the official website of the relevant mission or visa centre to book your appointment before visiting.

How do I find the phone number for a specific embassy in Dubai?

The most reliable source is the official website of the embassy or consulate. You can also check the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs website, which maintains a directory of all diplomatic missions in the country. Avoid relying on third-party directories, as phone numbers change frequently.

Are embassy hours the same as regular business hours?

Embassy and consulate hours in the UAE typically follow UAE business hours (Sunday to Thursday, approximately 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM), but visa application hours may be shorter. Many missions have specific morning-only hours for visa submissions and afternoon hours for passport collection. Always verify operating hours on the official website.

What should I do if my country does not have a consulate in Dubai?

If your destination country only has an embassy in Abu Dhabi, check whether a visa application centre (VFS Global, TLS Contact, or BLS International) handles applications in Dubai on their behalf. If no Dubai centre exists, you will need to visit the embassy in Abu Dhabi or apply by mail or online if the country offers those options.

Need Expert Visa Assistance?

OraVisa handles everything from document preparation to embassy submission. Get a free consultation today.

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Related Visa Guides

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TLS Contact Dubai: France, Belgium & Schengen Visa AppointmentsEmbassy Guides
How to Get a Schengen Visa from Dubai: Complete 2026 GuideGuides
How to Track Your Visa Application Status from DubaiEmbassy Guides
AAR

Written by

Ahmed Al Rashid

Senior Visa Consultant

Senior Visa Consultant at OraVisa with 12+ years of visa consultancy experience. Has guided thousands of UAE residents through successful visa applications for 100+ countries.

Certified Immigration ConsultantB.A. International RelationsUAE MOFA Recognized
Published: •12+ years experience•Languages: English, Arabic, Hindi
AAR

Expert reviewed by Ahmed Al Rashid

Senior Visa Consultant

Certified Immigration ConsultantB.A. International RelationsUAE MOFA Recognized

Last updated: · 12+ years of visa consultancy experience

Last updated: