Visa package
48 Hours Transit Visa
$150
Processing time 24 to 48 hours
No hidden fees, all taxes included. Prices are shown for applicants from South Africa.
Visa package
Processing time 24 to 48 hours
Visa package
Processing time 24 to 48 hours
Visa package
Processing time 24 to 48 hours
Visa package
Processing time 24 to 48 hours
Visa package
Processing time 24 to 48 hours
Visa requirements for South African citizens depend on the passport held and the traveller's eligibility.
South African ordinary passport holders with qualifying residence permits issued by certain countries may be eligible for visa-on-arrival arrangements under UAE rules introduced in 2026. Eligible documents can include qualifying residence permits issued by the United States, the United Kingdom, European Union member states, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Singapore, or South Korea.
South African travellers who do not meet the applicable conditions should check whether they need a pre-arranged UAE visa before booking their journey.
Always confirm your eligibility using the latest official UAE entry requirements before travelling.
The appropriate visa depends on your travel purpose, intended stay, and eligibility.
A tourist visa is suitable for South African citizens visiting Dubai for holidays, sightseeing, shopping, or leisure activities.
Depending on eligibility and the available visa category, travellers may be able to apply for a short-term or longer-stay tourist visa.
A 14-day visa may be suitable for a short visit. Certain UAE entry-permit categories are available to eligible South African passport holders who meet additional conditions, including specified foreign visa or residence-permit requirements.
Eligibility should be confirmed before submitting an application.
A 30-day tourist visa may be suitable for travellers planning a holiday, visiting relatives, or exploring Dubai's attractions.
Applicants should check the available entry-permit options and the permitted length of stay before applying.
A 60-day visa may suit South African visitors who want to spend more time in the UAE.
Some special entry-permit categories for South African nationals have additional eligibility conditions. Approval is subject to the applicable UAE immigration rules.
South African travellers passing through Dubai on their way to another destination may be eligible for a transit visa, depending on their itinerary and the applicable requirements.
Transit visas are available for qualifying stopovers of 48 or 96 hours. Travellers should confirm airline sponsorship requirements, onward-ticket conditions, and eligibility before travelling.
South African applicants should prepare the documents required for their chosen visa category. Common requirements may include:
A valid South African passport, generally with at least six months of validity remaining.
A recent passport-size photograph meeting the required specifications.
Confirmed or proposed flight details, including onward or return travel where required.
Accommodation details, such as a hotel booking or host information.
Proof of sufficient funds, if requested.
Valid foreign visas or residence permits, where required for a special eligibility category.
Travel insurance or other supporting documents, where applicable.
Additional documents may be requested depending on the applicant's circumstances and the visa category.
Follow these steps to prepare your application.
Determine whether you need a tourist visa, a short-stay entry permit, a longer-stay visa, or a transit visa.
Confirm whether your South African passport and any additional visas or residence permits meet the current UAE entry requirements.
Gather your passport copy, photograph, travel details, accommodation information, and any additional supporting documents required for your application.
Apply through an appropriate authorised visa channel or service provider. Complete the application accurately and ensure that your documents are clear and consistent.
Check the current visa fee and any service charges before making payment. The amount depends on the visa category and application channel.
Once your application has been processed, review the issued visa or entry permit carefully. Check your name, passport details, validity dates, and permitted duration of stay before departure.
Processing times depend on the visa category, application channel, document quality, and immigration review.
Some applications may be processed within a few working days, while others may take longer. Express processing may be available through certain service providers, but it does not guarantee approval or immediate issuance.
South African travellers should apply well before their planned departure date and avoid making non-refundable travel arrangements until their entry requirements have been confirmed.
Dubai offers a mix of modern attractions, cultural experiences, shopping destinations, and family-friendly activities.
Visit the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Dubai Marina, and Palm Jumeirah. These attractions offer opportunities for sightseeing, dining, entertainment, and photography.
Dubai is known for its shopping malls, traditional markets, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Visitors can explore everything from international brands to local products and souvenirs.
A desert safari can introduce visitors to the UAE's desert landscape through activities such as dune drives, traditional-style dining, and cultural entertainment.
Travellers can explore historic neighbourhoods, museums, traditional markets, and local food to learn more about Dubai's heritage and contemporary culture.
Some South African ordinary passport holders may qualify for special entry arrangements, including visa-on-arrival provisions if they meet the relevant conditions. Other travellers may need to arrange a visa in advance. Confirm your individual eligibility before departure.
Yes. Where a pre-arranged visa is required, eligible applicants can use an authorised online application channel or visa service provider. The available application route depends on the visa category.
Processing times vary. Some applications may be processed within a few working days, while others may take longer because of document checks or additional review. Confirm the estimated timeframe before applying.
A passport with at least six months of validity remaining is generally required for UAE entry permits. Travellers should confirm the specific requirement applicable to their entry category.
Certain 60-day entry-permit categories are available to eligible South African nationals, subject to additional conditions. Check the current eligibility requirements before submitting an application.
Transit visas may be available for qualifying stopovers in Dubai. Eligibility, airline sponsorship, onward travel, and other conditions should be checked before departure.
Extension eligibility depends on the visa type and the immigration rules in force at the time. Do not assume that every visa can be extended. Confirm the conditions with the relevant UAE authority or authorised service provider.
No. A tourist visa does not authorise ordinary employment in the UAE. Anyone planning to work must obtain the appropriate authorisation under UAE law.
Preparing your travel documents in advance can help make your trip to Dubai more straightforward. Before applying, confirm your eligibility, choose the appropriate visa category, and review the latest requirements for South African passport holders.
Whether you are planning a short holiday, a family visit, or a longer stay, make sure your travel arrangements match the conditions of your approved entry permit.
Apply Now to check your Dubai visa options and prepare for your trip from South Africa to the UAE.