South Africa passport → United Arab Emirates

United Arab Emirates visa for citizens of South Africa

eVisaUAE eVisa (Tourist/Visit)

Citizens of South Africa need a visa for the United Arab Emirates and can apply online for an eVisa.

Verified · Last checked 2026-09-05. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.

Key facts

Entry route	eVisa · UAE eVisa (Tourist/Visit)
How to apply	Fully online — no office visit
Maximum stay	Up to 30 days
Visa validity	60 days
Entries	Single entry
Processing time	3–5 days
Government fee	AED 100
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Not required
Appointment	Not required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	Bank statement or payslips showing sufficient funds for stay

How to apply

1
Prepare required documents
Gather passport scan, photo, flight, accommodation, bank statement
2
Complete online application
Fill in the eVisa form on the UAE official portal (if available) or via authorised service provider
3
Pay visa fee
Pay the fee online via credit/debit card
4
Wait for processing
Processing takes 3 to 5 business days
5
Receive eVisa via email
Download and print the eVisa to present at UAE immigration

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity)
Scan of bio page and all visa pages
Recent passport-size photograph (white background)
Digitally submitted, 200x200 pixels minimum

Travel

Confirmed return flight ticket
Shows exit from UAE within allowed stay
Hotel booking or accommodation proof
Valid for entire stay or sponsor letter

Financial

Bank statement (last 3 months)
Shows sufficient funds for stay and return

Supporting

Travel insurance (optional but recommended)
Optional
Covers medical and repatriation
Copy of previous UAE visas (if any)
Optional
Helps process application

Proof of funds

Bank statement
Payslips

Amount sufficient for stay (at least AED 1000 per day recommended)

Good to know

Visa does not guarantee entry; final decision at UAE port of entry.
Holders of Right of Abode in UK with Certificate of Entitlement in Commonwealth passport may enter Dubai without visa.

Common refusal reasons

Incomplete or incorrect documentation

Double-check all documents and follow application instructions exactly.

Passport validity less than 6 months

Ensure passport is valid for at least 6 months from date of arrival.

Previous visa violations in UAE

Clear any overstay or violations before applying.

FAQ

Do citizens of South Africa need a visa for the United Arab Emirates?

Citizens of South Africa need a visa for the United Arab Emirates and can apply online for an eVisa. Visa type: UAE eVisa (Tourist/Visit).

How long can citizens of South Africa stay in the United Arab Emirates?

Up to 30 days.

How much does the United Arab Emirates visa cost for citizens of South Africa?

Government fee: AED 100.

How long does United Arab Emirates visa processing take?

Typically 3–5 days.

What documents do citizens of South Africa need for the United Arab Emirates?

Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity); Recent passport-size photograph (white background); Confirmed return flight ticket; Hotel booking or accommodation proof; Bank statement (last 3 months); Travel insurance (optional but recommended); and 1 more depending on your situation.

How long must my passport be valid for the United Arab Emirates?

At least 6 months.

Plan your trip to the United Arab Emirates

Nowah is an AI travel agent that books flights, hotels and eSIMs in one conversation and keeps track of your visa paperwork along the way. Need data on arrival? See the Nowah eSIM guide for United Arab Emirates.

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