Quick Facts
Requirement
Visa Required
Visa Fee
ZAR 2,849
(~$154)
Processing Time
5–7 working days
Appointment Wait
~ weeks
Stay Duration
Up to 30 days
E-Visa
Available online
Dubai and the UAE are among the most popular international destinations for South Africans — an easy, mostly online visa process costing ~ZAR 2,849 all-in for 30 days. South Africa is a significant source market for UAE tourism. Approval rates for South Africans are high.
Key Warnings
- The UAE visa must be approved before you board your flight. Airlines check UAE visa status at check-in — you cannot apply on arrival.
- Apply at least 10 days before travel to allow for standard 3–7 day processing. Apply earlier during peak seasons (December, Ramadan, summer school holidays).
- The UAE has strict laws on behaviour, dress, and substance possession. Research cultural norms before travel.
Insider Tips
- Emirates and flydubai both operate direct JNB–DXB flights. Emirates is the dominant carrier — frequent service and competitive fares for South Africans.
- Dubai is a popular stopover for South Africans travelling to Europe, Asia, or North America. An approved UAE tourist visa lets you explore Dubai during a layover.
- Abu Dhabi (Louvre, Yas Island, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque) offers a less crowded alternative to Dubai. Same UAE visa covers both emirates.
Step-by-Step Guide
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Apply online via ICA or VFS Global
Visit icp.gov.ae (UAE Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship) or visa.vfsglobal.com/zaf/en/are. Create an account and select the tourist visa category.
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Complete the application form
Enter your personal details as they appear on your South African passport. Enter your travel dates and accommodation details.
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Upload documents
Upload your passport scan and passport photo. A return ticket and hotel booking are recommended. Ensure all uploads are clear JPEG or PDF files.
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Pay the visa fee
Pay the 30-day single entry tourist visa fee (~$139 USD / ZAR 2,572) by credit card. Express processing (24–48 hours) is available at additional cost.
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Wait for approval (3–7 days)
Standard processing takes 3–7 working days. You will receive your approved e-visa by email. Apply at least 10 days before travel.
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Present at check-in and immigration
Download your UAE e-visa PDF and present it at check-in (airlines check UAE visas before boarding) and to UAE immigration on arrival.
Required Documents
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Valid South African passport
Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended return date.
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Recent passport-size photograph
White background, taken within the last 3 months. JPEG format.
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Confirmed return or onward flight ticket
Confirmed booking showing entry and exit from the UAE.
Recommended (Optional)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do South Africans need a visa for the UAE (Dubai)?
Yes. South African passport holders need a UAE tourist visa to visit Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other UAE emirates. The 30-day tourist visa costs approximately $139 (ZAR 2,572) and is applied for online at icp.gov.ae or through VFS Global. Processing takes 3–7 days.
How do South Africans apply for a UAE visa?
Apply online at icp.gov.ae (UAE's official portal) or through VFS Global South Africa (visa.vfsglobal.com/zaf/en/are). No embassy visit is required. Upload your passport scan and photo, pay the fee by card, and receive your approved e-visa by email in 3–7 days. Present it at check-in and UAE immigration.
How much is a UAE visa for South Africans?
A 30-day single-entry UAE tourist visa costs approximately $139 USD (ZAR 2,572). With VFS Global service fees (~$15), the total is approximately ZAR 2,849. A 30-day multiple-entry visa costs ~$335 USD (ZAR 6,198). Express processing (24–48 hours) is available at extra cost.
Does one UAE visa cover both Dubai and Abu Dhabi?
Yes. A UAE tourist visa allows you to visit any of the seven emirates — including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, and others. You do not need separate visas for different emirates.