Do South Africans Need A Visa For Dubai
Traveling to Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), for work or for pleasure? If so, you probably have a few questions about the visa process. And with South Africa being one of the more popular countries from which people travel to UAE, I thought it might be helpful to write this guide on “Do South Africans Need A Visa For Dubai”.Are you considering a long-term stay in Dubai? Then, you have to get yourself a UAE visa. However, are South Africans eligible for this visa and what’s the process of applying, like? All these questions will be answered in this simple and straightforward guide.
Dubai is a vibrant city and part of the United Arab Emirates. It’s a modern metropolis with world-famous shopping malls, interesting museums, and a fast-paced way of life. In fact, the city has become known as both home to many expats and one of the most popular holiday destinations for South Africans. Many people seek out Dubai as a travel destination because it offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for an exciting night out on the town or want to enjoy family time together, there’s something for everyone in the region.
Do South Africans Need A Visa For Dubai
South African passport holders need a visa to enter the United Arab Emirates. Fortunately, this guide explains the entire process. The easiest way to apply for a UAE (Dubai) visa is online via Emirates or Etihad. Alternatively, if you are flying with another airline, you must apply in person at the Dubai Visa Processing Centres (DVPC), also known as VFS Global, in South Africa. Processing time can take up to 7 working days.
Please note this process is applicable to South African passport holders.
Overview
Type of visasHow to applyVisa costsVisa requirementsWhere to applyAdditional information
Types of Visas
96-hour Visa – if you are transiting through the UAE and your layover is at least 8 hours. It allows you to stay for up to 4 days in the UAE
Validity: 4 days from arrival
30-day Short-Term Visa – for regular tourist purposes. It allows you to stay for up to 30 days in the UAE
Validity: 30 days from arrival
Please note: That should you wish to visit the UAE more often and over multiple occasions, there are multiple-entry UAE visas valid for 3 months.
How to Apply
The earliest you can apply for a UAE (Dubai) visa is 3 months before you travel. In the case of the 96-hour visa, we suggest applying about 2 weeks before travelling.
With Emirates/Etihad:
- Apply on the airline’s website
- For Emirates, use the “Manage your booking” tool (you will need your flight ticket and booking reference for this)
- Complete the online form
- Scan and upload all your required documents
- Pay the visa fee
- Receive your visa entirely online via email (no passport courier needed)
At the Dubai Visa Processing Centre:
- Make an appointment with your nearest DVPC
- Pay the application fee (via EFT or with a cash deposit at a branch)
- Take your required documents to be submitted (along with proof of payment)
- Complete the application form
- Track the status of your application
- If your application is successful, you will receive an SMS and email notifying you when your visa and passport are ready for collection
UAE Visa Costs
With Etihad/Emirates:
96-hour Visa :R202 to R445 |
30-day Short-Term Visa :R1,333 to R1,412 |
With VFS Global:
96-hour Visa :R610 |
30-day Short-Term Visa :R1475 |
Important notice: Please note that the DVPCs do offer express services, with the 96-hour Visa express fee at R950 and the 30-day Short-Term Visa fee at R1,815. If you need to cancel your application at the DVPCs, it will cost you R480. Payments must be made to NEDBANK Ltd – A/c NO 1030242380, Branch code: 14690591
Please note that prices are subject to exchange rates and may change without notice
UAE Visa Requirements
All Dubai visa have the following requirements:
• Completed Application Form
• A copy of your return flight ticket
• Two colour photographs with white backgrounds (4.3 x 5.5 cm)
• A colour copy of the first 2 pages of your passport (must be valid for 6 months after you leave the UAE)
• A letter from your bank stating that you will have enough funds available while in the UAE
• A letter from your employer proving your employment and the position you hold
• Hotel booking confirmation
• Travel itinerary
Application Centres
Cape Town
Address: 5th Floor, Strand Building, 47 Strand Street, Cape Town
Telephone: 021 423 6573
Email: infodvpccpt@dubaivisa.net
Business Hours: Monday – Friday, 08:30 – 12:30; 13:30 – 15:00Johannesburg
Address: Sandton City, Office Tower, 2nd floor, Sandton
Telephone: 011 783 0410 / 011 783 1941
Email: infodvpcsa@dubaivisa.net
Business Hours: Monday – Friday, 08:30 – 12:30; 13:30 – 15:00Durban