Skip to main content

United Arab Emirates Visa for South Africa Citizens 2026

e-Visa / eTA

South African citizens require a UAE visa, most commonly a 30-day single-entry e-visa arranged online or through an airline/hotel sponsor for around USD 90-120, with approval typically in 3-5 business days.

Guide last updated October 23, 2026. Always verify with official sources before travel.

What you need

  • Passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry
  • Online e-visa application through u.ae, a licensed UAE visa agent, or sponsorship from an airline (e.g. Emirates, Etihad) or hotel
  • Digital passport-style photo (white background)
  • Proof of return/onward ticket
  • Proof of hotel booking or UAE host's details
  • Proof of sufficient funds (bank statement) if requested
  • Biometrics: facial and fingerprint scan taken on arrival at UAE immigration
  • Travel health insurance: strongly recommended, not compulsory for short tourist stays

Visa types

  • 30-day single-entry tourist visa: approximately USD 90-100, extendable once for 30 days
  • 30-day multiple-entry tourist visa: approximately USD 180-220
  • 90-day single/multiple-entry visa: approximately USD 200-300
  • 5-year multiple-entry tourist visa: available to eligible applicants with proof of funds, from approximately USD 650
  • Business visit visa: similar validity and fees to the tourist visa, requires a UAE sponsor company's invitation

How to apply online

  • Apply through u.ae, the ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security) smart services, a UAE-licensed travel agent, or let your airline/hotel sponsor the visa during booking
  • Upload passport bio page, photo, and travel/accommodation details
  • Pay the visa fee online by card (typically USD 90-220 depending on sponsor/agent)
  • Processing time: 3-5 business days for most applications
  • The approved e-visa is emailed as a PDF; print it and carry it with your passport when traveling

Fees & processing time

  • 30-day single-entry visa: approximately AED 350-400 (USD 95-110)
  • 30-day multiple-entry visa: approximately AED 650-750 (USD 180-205)
  • Agent/service fee: typically AED 50-150 on top of the government fee if using a travel agent
  • Total cost estimate: USD 100-230 depending on visa type and agent used
  • Standard processing: 3-5 business days
  • Express service: available from some agents for an extra AED 100-200, reducing processing to 24-48 hours

Tips for South Africa travelers

  • Book through a reputable UAE-licensed agent or let your airline/hotel handle the visa - the most common and reliable route
  • Common rejection reasons: passport with less than 6 months validity, mismatched names across booking and passport, poor-quality photo
  • The UAE Embassy in Pretoria and Consulate in Cape Town can provide guidance but do not typically process tourist e-visas directly
  • Overstay fines are strict - AED 50 per day - so track your visa expiry date carefully
  • A single 30-day extension can usually be done inside the UAE through the GDRFA or ICP app before the visa expires

Official links & resources

Always confirm requirements with government or embassy sources before applying.

This guide is for information only. Visa policies change without notice. Travel Visa Stack is not an immigration authority. Always verify with official government or embassy sources before making travel plans.