How Much Is a 90 Day Visa for USA in UAE 2026

Quick answer

A standard 90-day US tourist visa (B-2) costs US$185 (about AED 680) for the visa application fee when you book through the US Embassy in Abu Dhabi or the Consulate in Dubai. Add AED 150–200 for VFS Global service charges, AED 50–100 for courier return, and AED 300–500 if you need a medical exam or extra photos. Total budget: AED 1,100–1,400. The visa itself is usually issued for 5–10 years with multiple entries; each stay is limited to 90 days.

Why UAE residents pay in AED

The US government sets fees in US dollars, but most expats in the UAE pay through VFS Global in dirhams. Exchange rates change daily, so always check the current AED amount on the official VFS website before you pay.

Step-by-step: how to apply from the UAE

1. Fill the DS-160 form

Complete the online non-immigrant visa application (DS-160) at ceac.state.gov. Save the confirmation page with the barcode; you will need it for the next steps.

2. Create a profile on ustraveldocs.ae

Register at the official US visa portal for the UAE. Enter your passport details and the DS-160 barcode. Choose the visa category “B-1/B-2 Visitor”.

3. Pay the visa fee

Pay US$185 (AED 680) by credit card, cash at an Emirates NBD branch, or through the online portal. Keep the receipt; it is valid for one year.

4. Book your appointment

Slots at the US Embassy Abu Dhabi or US Consulate Dubai fill up fast. Choose the earliest available date that fits your travel plans.

5. Attend the interview

Arrive 30 minutes early with your passport, DS-160 confirmation, fee receipt, and one 5×5 cm photo taken within the last six months. Answer questions about your trip, job, and ties to the UAE.

6. Track your passport

After approval you can track your passport via the VFS courier service. Delivery usually takes 3–7 working days inside the UAE.

Full cost breakdown in 2026

• Visa application fee (MRV): US$185 ≈ AED 680
• VFS Global service charge: AED 150–200
• Premium lounge (optional): AED 350
• Photo printing at VFS: AED 30
• Courier return (inside UAE): AED 50–100
• Medical exam (if requested): AED 300–500

Total realistic budget: AED 1,100–1,400. Keep 10 % extra for exchange-rate changes.

Common mistakes expats make

• Paying the old fee of US$160 and arriving with the wrong receipt.
• Booking a tourist visa when they actually need a business visa (B-1).
• Uploading a photo that does not meet the strict 5×5 cm, white-background rule.
• Forgetting to mention existing UAE residence visa, which can raise questions about immigrant intent.
• Assuming the visa guarantees entry; CBP officers at the US port of entry decide final stay length.

Visa validity vs. length of stay

Most UAE residents receive a 5- or 10-year multiple-entry B-2 visa. The “90 days” refers to the maximum continuous stay per visit, not the visa expiry. You can return as often as you like, provided each entry is approved by the border officer.

Tips to speed up approval

• Show strong ties to the UAE: valid residence visa, tenancy contract via Ejari, salary slips, and school letters for children.
• Book appointments on Tuesday or Wednesday mornings; Monday and Friday slots disappear first.
• If your trip is urgent, check the US Embassy website daily at 7 a.m. for last-minute cancellations.
• Carry an invitation letter or hotel bookings to prove the purpose and duration of your visit.

Comparison: US visa vs. Schengen or UK

Key takeaway

Budget AED 1,200–1,400, start with the DS-160, and book your slot early. A US visa from the UAE is straightforward when you prepare the right documents and show clear ties to the country.