Dubai and the UAE are among the most popular international destinations for South Africans — an easy, mostly online visa process costing ~ZAR 2,849 all-in for 30 days. South Africa is a significant source market for UAE tourism. Approval rates for South Africans are high.
Key Warnings
The UAE visa must be approved before you board your flight. Airlines check UAE visa status at check-in — you cannot apply on arrival.
Apply at least 10 days before travel to allow for standard 3–7 day processing. Apply earlier during peak seasons (December, Ramadan, summer school holidays).
The UAE has strict laws on behaviour, dress, and substance possession. Research cultural norms before travel.
Insider Tips
Emirates and flydubai both operate direct JNB–DXB flights. Emirates is the dominant carrier — frequent service and competitive fares for South Africans.
Dubai is a popular stopover for South Africans travelling to Europe, Asia, or North America. An approved UAE tourist visa lets you explore Dubai during a layover.
Abu Dhabi (Louvre, Yas Island, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque) offers a less crowded alternative to Dubai. Same UAE visa covers both emirates.
Step-by-Step Guide
Apply online via ICA or VFS Global
Visit icp.gov.ae (UAE Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship) or visa.vfsglobal.com/zaf/en/are. Create an account and select the tourist visa category.
Complete the application form
Enter your personal details as they appear on your South African passport. Enter your travel dates and accommodation details.
Upload documents
Upload your passport scan and passport photo. A return ticket and hotel booking are recommended. Ensure all uploads are clear JPEG or PDF files.
Pay the visa fee
Pay the 30-day single entry tourist visa fee (~$139 USD / ZAR 2,572) by credit card. Express processing (24–48 hours) is available at additional cost.
Wait for approval (3–7 days)
Standard processing takes 3–7 working days. You will receive your approved e-visa by email. Apply at least 10 days before travel.
Present at check-in and immigration
Download your UAE e-visa PDF and present it at check-in (airlines check UAE visas before boarding) and to UAE immigration on arrival.
Required Documents
Valid South African passportMust be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended return date.
Recent passport-size photographWhite background, taken within the last 3 months. JPEG format.
Confirmed return or onward flight ticketConfirmed booking showing entry and exit from the UAE.
Recommended (Optional)
Bank statement (last 3 months)Not always required but can strengthen your application if requested.
Hotel booking confirmationRecommended to include — strengthens the application.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do South Africans need a visa for the UAE (Dubai)?
Yes. South African passport holders need a UAE tourist visa to visit Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other UAE emirates. The 30-day tourist visa costs approximately $139 (ZAR 2,572) and is applied for online at icp.gov.ae or through VFS Global. Processing takes 3–7 days.
How do South Africans apply for a UAE visa?
Apply online at icp.gov.ae (UAE's official portal) or through VFS Global South Africa (visa.vfsglobal.com/zaf/en/are). No embassy visit is required. Upload your passport scan and photo, pay the fee by card, and receive your approved e-visa by email in 3–7 days. Present it at check-in and UAE immigration.
How much is a UAE visa for South Africans?
A 30-day single-entry UAE tourist visa costs approximately $139 USD (ZAR 2,572). With VFS Global service fees (~$15), the total is approximately ZAR 2,849. A 30-day multiple-entry visa costs ~$335 USD (ZAR 6,198). Express processing (24–48 hours) is available at extra cost.
Does one UAE visa cover both Dubai and Abu Dhabi?
Yes. A UAE tourist visa allows you to visit any of the seven emirates — including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, and others. You do not need separate visas for different emirates.