In the 1980s, political tensions began to rise in the Middle East, where the USO shifted its direction on behalf of those who were stationed there. Although United States troops did not encounter any combat, they were under constant terrorist alerts. As tensions rose, the USO stepped up their efforts, producing shows such as the 1990 Bob Hope tour with stars such as Yakov Smirfnoff, Rosemary Clooney, LaToya Jackson, Miss Universe and Brooke Shields. Other famous celebrities, such as Jay Leno and Steve Martin, volunteered to take part in USO shows.

On August 2, 1990, Iraq invaded Kuwait leading to a massive buildup of American troops in Saudi Arabia and the Persian Gulf. The Persian Gulf War had begun. Immediately, the USO began its operations in Saudi Arabia assisting those who were deployed there. Three new USO centers appeared in the Middle East. Back home, programs such as the Family Support Fund were organized to help the families of those who had gone to take part in Desert Shield and Desert Storm.