---
title: United Arab Emirates visa for citizens of South Africa
description: "Citizens of South Africa need a visa for the United Arab Emirates and can apply online for an eVisa. Stay up to 30 days. Fee: AED 100. Processing: 3–5 days. Documents checklist and application steps."
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/united-arab-emirates/south-africa
lastModified: 2026-09-05
---

# United Arab Emirates visa for citizens of South Africa

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

- **Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity)** (Identity): Scan of bio page and all visa pages
- **Recent passport-size photograph (white background)** (Identity): Digitally submitted, 200x200 pixels minimum
- **Confirmed return flight ticket** (Travel): Shows exit from UAE within allowed stay
- **Hotel booking or accommodation proof** (Travel): Valid for entire stay or sponsor letter
- **Bank statement (last 3 months)** (Financial): Shows sufficient funds for stay and return
- **Travel insurance (optional but recommended)** (Supporting, optional): Covers medical and repatriation
- **Copy of previous UAE visas (if any)** (Supporting, 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.

## FAQs

### 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.

## More

- [United Arab Emirates visa for every passport](/visa/united-arab-emirates)
- [Every destination for South Africa passport holders](/visa/passport/south-africa)