🇿🇦 Dubai Visa for South African Passport Holders (2025–2026 Guide)

South African citizens must apply for a Dubai (UAE) visa before travelling. Visa-on-arrival is not available for South African passport holders. The good news? The process is fully online and straightforward.
✈️ Available Dubai Visa Types for South Africans
Tourist / Visit Visas
14-Day Single Entry – Short trips or quick visits
30-Day Visa – Single or multiple entry
60-Day Visa – Single or multiple entry (ideal for longer stays)
Transit Visas
48-hour or 96-hour options for stopovers via Dubai
📄 Required Documents
You’ll typically need:
Valid South African passport (minimum 6 months validity)
Clear passport copy (bio page + cover)
Recent passport-size photo (white background)
Confirmed return flight ticket
Hotel booking or UAE host details
Completed online application form
Note: Children and infants require a separate visa.
⏳ Processing Time
Standard: 3–5 working days
Urgent / Express: 24–48 hours (additional fee)
Apply early, especially during peak travel seasons.
💳 Visa Fees
Costs depend on:
Visa duration (14 / 30 / 60 days)
Single vs multiple entry
Standard vs urgent processing
Fees are quoted at the time of application and vary by service option.
🛂 After Approval
Visa is issued as an e-visa (PDF) via email
Carry a printed or digital copy when travelling
Immigration will stamp your entry with the visa validity
⚠️ Important Tips
Double-check passport validity before applying
Do not overstay—overstays incur fines
Entry approval is always subject to immigration checks
Travel insurance is recommended
Q1: Do South Africans need a visa for Dubai?
Yes, South African passport holders must obtain a visa before travelling to Dubai.Q2: Can South Africans get visa on arrival in Dubai?
No, visa on arrival is not available for South African citizens.Q3: How long does Dubai visa processing take from South Africa?
Standard processing usually takes 3–5 working days. Urgent options are available.Q4: What is the validity of a Dubai tourist visa for South Africans?
Visas are available for 14 days, 30 days, or 60 days, depending on the selected option.Q5: Is Dubai visa applied online from South Africa?
Yes, the entire application process is completed online.
UAE Visa for South Africans Apply Online Get Approved Faster


