United Arab Emirates visa requirements for South African passport holders
Yes. South African passport holders need a visa to visit United Arab Emirates for tourism. Holders of a valid residence permit issued by the United States, a European Union member state, the United Kingdom, Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand or Canada can get a visa on arrival instead: 14 days (AED 100, extendable once) or 60 days (AED 250, single entry). Everyone else arranges the visa before travel through a sponsor such as an airline, hotel or tourism company. The visa fee is AED 100. A decision usually takes 2 days.
Also worth knowing
Holders of a valid residence permit issued by the United States, a European Union member state, the United Kingdom, Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand or Canada can get a visa on arrival instead: 14 days (AED 100, extendable once) or 60 days (AED 250, single entry). Everyone else arranges the visa before travel through a sponsor such as an airline, hotel or tourism company.
South African passport holders need a visa to visit United Arab Emirates for tourism.
Get your documents complete and consistent before you apply, then check whether you are ready.
Fees and timing
| Visa fee | AED 100 |
|---|---|
| Processing time | 2 days |
Not sure you are ready to apply?
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Why we say this
How applying works
Gather your documents
11 documents. Upload what you already have, we read them and fill the rest.
Review your application
Complete the official application form
Pay the AED 100 visa fee
Paid at Embassy of the United Arab Emirates, 992 Arcadia, Arcidia Street, Pretoria, South Africa, ICP Smart Services Website, ICP Smart App, or Customer Happiness Centers.
Then the consulate decides
Typically 2 calendar days.
Requirements last updated October 2026.