🇿🇦 Dubai Tourist Visa for South Africans 2026 – How to Apply, Requirements, Fees & Processing
Dubai continues to be one of the most desired destinations for South African travellers — from luxury hotels and sky-high dining to desert safaris, dhow cruises and world-class shopping. If you’re planning a holiday to the UAE, you will need a Dubai Tourist Visa before your flight unless you already hold a valid UAE residence or GCC-eligible passport.
This guide gives you everything you need in one place: visa types, requirements, fees, approval time, and how to apply step-by-step for 2026.
📌 Do South Africans Need a Visa for Dubai?
Yes. South African passport holders must apply for a tourist visa before travelling to Dubai.
The process is 100% online, and visas are issued as an e-Visa via email — you simply show it at the airport.
No embassy appointments.
No physical document submission.
🛂 Dubai Visa Types for South African Travellers (2026)
You can choose a visa depending on how long you plan to stay:
| Visa Type | Duration of Stay | Entry Type | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 14-Day Tourist Visa | Up to 14 days | Single entry | Short holidays, quick trips |
| 30-Day Tourist Visa | Up to 30 days | Single entry | Standard tourism + shopping |
| 60-Day Tourist Visa | Up to 60 days | Single entry | Long stay, family visit |
| Multiple Entry Visa | 30 or 60 days | Multiple entry | Business + travel combinations |
⭐ Tip: If you plan to revisit within the same month or visit nearby GCC countries, Multiple Entry can save time and money.
📄 Requirements for Dubai Visa from South Africa
The required documents are simple:
Valid South African passport (minimum 6-month validity)
Recent passport-style photograph
Return/onward flight ticket
Accommodation details (hotel or host invitation)
Completed visa application form
❗Bank statements are not always mandatory, depending on the visa type and operator.
⏱ Dubai Visa Processing Time (2026)
| Processing Type | Estimated Time |
|---|---|
| Standard Visa | 24–72 hours |
| Express / Urgent | 6–24 hours (extra cost) |
Perfect for last-minute travel planners.
💰 Dubai Tourist Visa Prices for South Africans (2026)
Estimated range — may vary by season or service provider.
| Visa Type | Price Estimate |
|---|---|
| 14-Day Visa | AED 300 – 450 |
| 30-Day Visa | AED 450 – 650 |
| 60-Day Visa | AED 650 – 900 |
| Multiple Entry (30–60 days) | AED 900 – 1500 |
| Express Upgrade | Additional Fee |
✈ How to Apply for Dubai Visa from South Africa (Step-by-Step)
Choose preferred visa duration (14/30/60 days).
Upload passport + passport-style photo.
Add your flight + accommodation confirmation.
Submit online application & pay securely.
Receive your e-Visa by email in PDF format.
You can then fly with just your passport and digital visa.
Nothing physical to collect — zero embassy visits.
🌆 Why Dubai is a Top Choice for South Africans
✔ Incredible skyline views & luxury experiences
✔ Shopping Festival, New Year fireworks, global events
✔ Desert safari + dune bashing + camel rides
✔ Dubai Marina yacht + dhow dinner cruises
✔ One of the safest modern cities in the world
Best months to travel: October – April for pleasant weather.
Final Word
Getting a Dubai Tourist Visa as a South African in 2026 is fast, digital and stress-free. With multiple visa durations, simple documentation and 24-72 hour approval, your holiday is just a few steps away.
Whether you dream of Marina sunsets, desert adventures or shopping sprees — Dubai is ready when you are.
Dubai Visa for South Africans 2026 – Fast 24–48h Approval
