US Embassy in Abu Dhabi, Consulate in Dubai Close Amid Regional Tensions

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Abu Dhabi: The United States has temporarily closed its embassy in Abu Dhabi and its consulate general in Dubai amid escalating regional tensions.

In a statement, the mission confirmed that services at the US Embassy Abu Dhabi and the US Consulate General Dubai would not be provided until further notice. The move follows a March 3 directive from the United States Department of State ordering non-emergency US government employees to depart the UAE due to the threat of armed conflict.

The mission urged people not to approach the embassy or consulate at this time. Further updates will be issued as the situation evolves.

For Americans without a valid US passport, officials said arrangements would be made to provide passport services once security conditions permit. All other in-person consular services, including visa services for foreign nationals, are currently unavailable. Foreign passports being held by the mission will be returned when security allows.

Earlier guidance encouraged US citizens planning to leave the UAE to do so via commercial flights or through land borders with Oman and Saudi Arabia, which remain open.

Those unable or unwilling to depart have been advised to shelter in place at their residence or hotel, stay away from windows, and leave only when necessary to obtain essential supplies such as food, water and medication.

The State Department has also urged Americans in multiple Middle Eastern countries affected by the ongoing US-Israel-Iran conflict to depart immediately using commercial means due to what it described as “serious safety risks.”

Countries listed in the advisory include Bahrain, Kuwait, Egypt, Lebanon, Iran, Oman, Iraq, Qatar, Israel, the West Bank and Gaza, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Jordan, the United Arab Emirates and Yemen.

US citizens seeking assistance are required to complete the official Crisis Intake Form and are advised not to submit multiple requests.