UAE (Dubai) Visa Application
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.
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
30-day Short-Term Visa - for regular tourist purposes. It allows you to stay for up to 30 days in the UAE
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.
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:
At the Dubai Visa Processing Centre:
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
• 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
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 – 15:00
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 – 15:00
Address: Unit 6, Crystal Rock, 16 Solstice Road, Umhlanga Ridge New Town, Umhlanga Ridge
Telephone: 031 584 7153
Email: infodvpcdur@dubaivisa.net
Business Hours: Monday – Friday, 08:30 – 12:30; 13:30 – 15:00
Please note that the Dubai Visa Processing Centres are closed on weekends and South African public holidays.
Whether you’re planning to take iconic picture of the Burj Khalifa, go shopping at Dubai Mall, or explore the Bastakia Quarter, you’ll be sure to discover even more treasures in cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi! With this guide on the UAE (Dubai) visa application process, it won’t be long till you’re on your way.
Need assistance with your visa? Get a free assessment and quote from our expert partners at Visa Box!
