US Tourist Visa from Dubai — B1/B2 for UAE Residents

Note: as of 5 July 2026, routine US visa services in the UAE are suspended (verify the current status on ae.usembassy.gov). When routine services are running, US visa processing from Dubai typically takes 3-5 weeks after the interview, though interview appointment waits had been long — per travel.state.gov (18 June 2026), roughly 12.5 months in Dubai and 6 months in Abu Dhabi. OraVisa helps you track the current status and secure the earliest available slots.

You need a valid passport, completed DS-160 form, passport photo meeting US specifications, bank statements, employment letter, travel itinerary, and proof of ties to the UAE such as property or family documentation.

Yes. When routine services are running, most US visa applicants must attend an in-person interview at the US Embassy in Abu Dhabi or US Consulate in Dubai. Note that routine US visa services in the UAE are currently suspended (as of 5 July 2026); nonimmigrant applicants are advised to apply in their country of residence or nationality until services resume. OraVisa provides thorough interview coaching to help you present your case confidently.

ESTA eligibility is based on your passport nationality, not your UAE residence. A UAE resident who holds a passport from a Visa Waiver Program (VWP) country — such as the UK, Germany, France or Australia — can travel on an approved ESTA, which is a travel authorization rather than a visa. UAE residents whose nationality is not in the VWP, and Emirati passport holders (the UAE is not a VWP country), are not ESTA-eligible and need a B1/B2 visa. In short: UAE residence does not confer ESTA eligibility — your passport nationality does.

The US B1/B2 visitor visa application fee is USD 185 (approximately AED 680). This is non-refundable regardless of the outcome. OraVisa provides a full cost breakdown including all service fees upfront.

The US B1/B2 visa is issued for up to 10 years with multiple entries for many nationalities, though validity is set by reciprocity and varies by passport nationality (some receive shorter terms). Each stay is set by CBP at entry, generally up to 6 months. OraVisa helps ensure your application supports a long-duration visa issuance.

If denied, you can reapply with a stronger application. OraVisa analyses the refusal under Section 214(b) or other grounds, identifies weaknesses, and restructures your supporting documents for a successful reapplication.

To apply for a US visa from Dubai, you need to complete the DS-160 online form, pay the application fee, and schedule an interview at the US Consulate in Dubai. OraVisa streamlines this process by reviewing your documentation, preparing you for the interview, and ensuring your application is complete before submission.

Yes, Indian passport holders residing in the UAE can apply for a US visa from Dubai. You will need your valid Indian passport, UAE residence visa, and supporting documents. OraVisa regularly assists Indian nationals in Dubai with their US visa applications.

US visa approval depends on several factors including your ties to the UAE, financial stability, travel history, and purpose of visit. While the process can be competitive, having well-prepared documentation significantly improves your chances. OraVisa provides expert guidance to strengthen your application.