Dreaming of a family vacation to the United States? You’re definitely not the only one. From the magic of Disneyland in Florida to the towering skyscrapers of New York, the US offers an incredible variety of experiences that appeal to travelers of all ages. Whether it’s your first visit or you’re heading back for another adventure, one thing’s certain — there’s a lot to prepare before takeoff. And right at the top of that list is getting your US visit visa sorted.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essentials for planning a family trip from Dubai to the US — including visa info, travel tips, and how to make the process as smooth as possible.
🛂 Step 1: Know What Kind of Visa You Need
If you're visiting the US for tourism, sightseeing, or to catch up with loved ones, the visa you’ll need is called the B-2 Visitor Visa. This visa is ideal for family holidays and short personal trips. In some cases, travelers also apply for a B-1/B-2 combined visa, which includes both business and tourism purposes.
Here’s what you should know about the B-2 visa:
It can be valid for up to 10 years (depending on your case)
Allows you to enter the US multiple times
Each stay is typically permitted for up to 6 months
📄 Step 2: What You’ll Need to Apply from Dubai
As a UAE resident, you’ll need to get your documents in order before applying. Here’s a checklist of the basic requirements:
A valid UAE residence visa
A passport that’s valid for at least 6 months after your intended stay
A recent passport-size photo (as per US visa photo specs)
Proof of your travel plans, like flight bookings and hotel reservations
Bank statements or financial documents to show you can support your trip
A filled-out DS-160 form
Visa fee payment receipt
A scheduled appointment for your visa interview at the US embassy or consulate
📌 Tip: Missing or incorrect documents are a common reason for delays. Many families prefer working with visa consultants to ensure everything is prepare