In light of the extended wait times for US visa appointments in the UAE, some residents have found a quicker alternative: applying in neighboring Gulf countries. With the current wait in the UAE stretching to 10-12 months due to a high volume of applications, this new strategy is proving effective for those needing a US visa urgently.
Extended Wait Times in UAE
Indian expatriate Anshil Ponthuveetil Thekkumpurath shared his experience of securing a US visa by traveling to Saudi Arabia. “In UAE, it was taking 10-12 months – probably even more, but I wanted to get the US visa urgently. So I went to the US Consulate General Al Khobar in Dammam, Saudi Arabia, for a visa appointment. It took me just 7 days to complete the whole process. I got the passport after 7 days with the US visa stamped on it,” he said.
Success Story: Anshil Ponthuveetil Thekkumpurath
According to travel agents, UAE residents can obtain US visa appointments more quickly by applying in other Gulf countries. In Oman, the wait time is around three months, while in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, it’s only 2-3 weeks. Applicants who clear the interview can receive their passports within five days.
Official Confirmation from US Embassy
Ron Packowitz, the country consular coordinator at the US Embassy in Abu Dhabi, confirmed that US visa appointments can be obtained in any country, allowing applicants to choose the most convenient location.
Recommendations from Travel Agencies
Travel agencies in the UAE, like Wisefox Tourism, Deira Travel and Tourist Agency, and Galadari International Travel Services, are advising clients to explore this option. Shamsheed CV, a senior consultant at Wisefox Tourism, noted that both individuals and families are seeking quicker appointments in nearby GCC countries.
Guidance from the US Embassy
The US Embassy in Abu Dhabi has also provided guidance for applicants, recommending that they arrive no more than 15 minutes before their scheduled appointment time and noting that children under 14 are not required to attend visa interviews unless explicitly instructed.