UAE Visa Requirements for South African Citizens (2025 Guide)

If you’re a South African citizen planning to visit the UAE for tourism, family visits, or short stays, you must apply for a UAE visa in advance. UAE visa-free entry or visa on arrival is not available for South African passport holders.

The good news? You can apply 100% online and receive your UAE visa quickly with minimal documentation.

Do South African Citizens Need a UAE Visa?

Yes.
All South African passport holders require a pre-approved UAE tourist visa before traveling to Dubai or any other emirate.

You cannot obtain a UAE visa on arrival with a South African passport, even for short stays.

UAE Visa Types Available for South Africans

South African citizens can apply for the following UAE travel visas:

14-Day UAE Tourist Visa

• Ideal for short trips and stopovers

• Single entry

• Fast processing

30-Day UAE Tourist Visa

• Most popular option

• Suitable for holidays and family visits

• Single entry

• Extendable (inside UAE)

60-Day UAE Tourist Visa

• Best for longer stays

• Single entry

• Extendable

• Ideal for visiting relatives or extended tourism

❗ Employment visas are not covered. Tourist visas do not allow work in the UAE.

UAE Visa Requirements for South African Citizens

To apply for a UAE visa, you’ll need:

• Valid South African passport

  • Minimum 6 months validity

• Passport-size photo

  • White background, clear image

• Passport bio page scan

• Confirmed travel purpose

  • Tourism or family visit

Sometimes Requested (Case-by-Case)

• Hotel booking or UAE address

• Return flight ticket

• Proof of funds

Most applications are approved without additional documents.

How to Apply for a UAE Visa from South Africa

Applying is simple and fully online:

1. Choose your UAE visa type

2. Upload required documents

3. Make secure online payment

4. Receive your UAE visa by email

No embassy visits. No paperwork. No long waiting times.

UAE Visa Processing Time for South Africans

• Standard processing: 24–48 working hours

• Express options: Available in some cases

Processing time may vary during weekends, public holidays, or peak travel seasons.

UAE Entry Rules for South African Travelers

Before traveling, make sure you:

• Carry a printed or digital copy of your UAE visa

• Have a passport valid for at least 6 months

• Follow UAE immigration rules on arrival

Overstaying your visa can result in daily fines.

Common Reasons UAE Visas Get Delayed or Rejected

• Blurry or cropped passport scans

• Passport validity less than 6 months

• Incorrect personal details

• Previous UAE overstays

Double-check your documents before submitting.

Can South Africans Extend a UAE Tourist Visa?

Yes.
Most UAE tourist visas for South African citizens can be extended from inside the UAE without exiting the country.

Extension eligibility depends on the visa type.

Why Apply Through DubaiVisa.com?

• 100% online application

• Fast 24–48h approvals

• Secure document handling

• Dedicated support team

• Trusted by millions of travelers

Apply for Your UAE Visa Today

Planning a trip to Dubai or the UAE from South Africa?
Apply online today and receive your UAE visa quickly and securely.

Sophia | Visa Consultant at DubaiVisa.com Visa Consultant

Sophia is a trusted Dubai visa consultant at DubaiVisa.com, with years of experience helping travelers from around the world secure fast and reliable UAE visas. She specializes in tourist, transit, family, and corporate visa applications, ensuring each client receives expert guidance and quick approvals.

See Full Bio