The U.S. Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the U.S. Consulate General in Dubai have announced the cancellation of consular appointments scheduled between July 13 and July 15, 2026, citing the current regional security situation.
Individuals with appointments during this period have been advised not to appear at the embassy or consulate, and affected applicants will be contacted directly regarding rescheduling.
Consular Operations Remain Limited
According to the U.S. Mission to the United Arab Emirates, both the Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate General in Dubai remain under ordered departure status, meaning non-emergency U.S. government personnel have been relocated outside the UAE.
As a result:
- Routine consular services remain limited;
- Consular staffing levels are reduced;
- Appointment availability may be impacted;
- Routine visa services remain suspended.
The mission has advised applicants and travelers to expect potential service delays until normal operations resume.
Impact on Visa Applicants
The suspension affects individuals seeking:
- Nonimmigrant visa services;
- Immigrant visa processing;
- Other routine consular appointments.
At this time, routine U.S. visa services in the UAE remain suspended, and applicants should closely monitor communications from the Embassy and Consulate for updated scheduling information.
Individuals with canceled appointments are expected to receive instructions directly from the consular posts regarding rescheduling.
U.S. Citizen Services
Limited assistance remains available for U.S. citizens who require urgent consular services, including:
- Passport assistance;
- Emergency travel documentation;
- Certain notarial and citizenship-related services.
U.S. citizens requiring assistance have been instructed to contact the Embassy or Consulate through the U.S. Citizen Services Navigator to receive further guidance.
Security Recommendations for Travelers
The U.S. Mission has encouraged U.S. citizens in the UAE to:
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP);
- Monitor local news and official government alerts;
- Follow instructions issued by local authorities;
- Maintain sufficient supplies of food, water, medications, and other essentials;
- Keep travel documents current and easily accessible;
- Inform family and friends of their whereabouts;
- Remain aware of their surroundings and maintain a low profile.
The Embassy also advised individuals to be prepared to shelter in place if security conditions worsen.
Erickson Insights and Analysis
Erickson Immigration Group will continue monitoring developments and sharing updates as more news is available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or if you have case-specific questions.