US diplomatic missions in Abu Dhabi and Dubai have suspended services and issued guidance for Americans in the UAE.
Abu Dhabi: The US Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the US Consulate in Dubai have been closed, with no services available until further notice, the US Embassy announced on Wednesday via social media.
The closures come in response to ongoing Iranian aggression in the region.
For Americans without a valid US passport, the embassy said arrangements will be made to provide passport services once security conditions allow.
“All other in-person consular services are also unavailable, including visa services for foreign nationals. Foreign passports currently held by the mission will be returned when security conditions permit. For now, please do not visit the embassy or consulate for any reason. In case of an emergency, use the contact information provided below to reach us,” the announcement stated.
Guidance for Americans in the UAE
The US Embassy and Consulate have issued instructions for Americans currently in the UAE amid heightened regional tensions:
- Avoid visiting the embassy or consulate, as in-person services are suspended.
- Stay alert to local developments and follow instructions from local authorities.
- Use emergency contacts provided by the mission if urgent assistance is needed.
- Prepare travel and safety plans in case the situation escalates further.
- Monitor official updates from the US Embassy and Consulate for the latest guidance.
Americans are urged to exercise caution and stay informed until services resume and security conditions stabilize.
“The US government’s highest priority is the safety and welfare of US citizens abroad, and we will continue to provide information needed to make informed decisions about your safety,” the mission said.
In guidance for Americans in the UAE, the embassy stated:
- Consider departing the UAE if it can be done safely. Some flights are currently departing from international airports, and land borders with Oman and Saudi Arabia are open, though reports indicate congestion.
- Shelter in place for those who cannot or choose not to leave. Remain in residences, hotels, or other secure locations, stay away from windows, and go out only for essential needs such as food, water, or medications.
For Americans not currently in the UAE, the mission strongly advises reconsidering any plans to travel to or transit through the country.
Fill in the form
US citizens are advised to complete the Crisis Intake Form to notify the US Embassy that they are requesting assistance.
“Do not submit this form more than once. The form is available here: https://mytravel.state.gov/s/crisis-intake,” the embassy stated.
On March 3, 2026, the US Department of State ordered non-emergency US government employees to leave the UAE due to the threat of armed conflict.
Actions to take
- Contact your airline to check on flight availability.
- Complete the Crisis Intake Form if you need embassy assistance.
- Follow all safety instructions from the embassy, including sheltering in place if departure is not possible.
Safety Tips for Americans in the UAE
- Keep your phone charged and pre-programmed with local and international emergency numbers:
- Fire: 997
- Ambulance: 998
- Police: 999
- Maintain communication with family and friends to keep them informed of your status.
- Keep travel documents accessible at all times.
- If you hear a loud explosion, or if sirens or alerts are activated:
- Seek cover immediately.
- If indoors, move to the lowest level of the building with the fewest exterior walls, windows, and openings.
- Close doors and sit near an interior wall, away from windows and other openings.
If you are outdoors:
- Immediately seek cover in a reinforced or hardened structure.
- If no shelter is available, lie flat on the ground and cover your head with your hands.
- Be aware that even if a missile or drone is intercepted, falling debris can still pose a serious risk.
After an attack:
- Stay clear of any debris.
- Monitor major news outlets and official channels for guidance.
What to avoid:
- Areas near military installations, government buildings, or other potential targets.
What to avoid:
- Standing near windows or glass doors.
- Going outside unnecessarily during active alerts.
How to stay informed:
- Enroll in STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program) to receive the latest security and safety alerts: https://step.state.gov
- Before traveling, review the Travel Advisory, country-specific information, and recent alerts here: https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel.html
How to seek emergency assistance in the UAE:
- Dial 999 for local emergency services.
US Embassy – Abu Dhabi
- General Telephone: +(971) 2-414-2200
- Emergency Telephone: +(971) 2-414-2200
US Embassy – Abu Dhabi
- Email: ACSAbuDhabi@state.gov
US Consulate General – Dubai
- General Telephone: +(971) 4-309-4000
- Emergency Telephone: +(971) 4-309-4000
US Consulate General – Dubai
- Email: DubaiACS@state.gov
US Department of State – Consular Affairs:
- From the US and Canada: 888-407-4747
- From all other locations: 202-501-4444
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)
- Sign up for STEP to receive the latest security and safety updates directly from the US Embassy while in the UAE.
- Enrollment link: https://step.state.gov
