Dubai Visa Price for South Africans (2026 Fee & Application Guide)
If you already know South African passport holders need a visa to enter Dubai, the next question is simple: how much does it cost, and how fast can you get it? This guide breaks down 2026 Dubai visa fees for South Africans by visa type, plus the fastest way to apply online.
| Visa Type | Price |
|---|---|
| 48-Hour Transit Visa (Single Entry) | |
| 96-Hour Transit Visa (Single Entry) | |
| 14-Day Single Entry Visa | |
| 30-Day Single Entry Visa | |
| 60-Day Single Entry Visa | |
| 30-Day Multiple Entry Visa | |
| 60-Day Multiple Entry Visa | |
| 30-Day Visa (Child) | |
| 60-Day Visa (Child) |
Prices shown in USD. Processing time: 2 working days (standard).
Do South Africans Need a Visa for Dubai?
Yes. South African passport holders are not eligible for visa-free entry or standard visa-on-arrival. A pre-approved UAE visa must be arranged before departure. This applies whether you are travelling for tourism, business, or to visit family based in the UAE.
Applying online avoids embassy visits and long processing queues at VFS centres in South Africa.
Dubai Visa Types Available to South Africans
đš 48-Hour / 96-Hour Transit Visa
- Best for layovers of 8+ hours
- Airport-to-airport use only
- Not extendable
đš 30-Day Tourist Visa
- The most common choice for South African travellers
- Available as single-entry or multiple-entry
- Can usually be extended once
đš 60-Day Tourist Visa
- Ideal for longer holidays, family visits, or remote work stays
- After 60 days, you must exit the UAE before reapplying
đš Multiple-Entry Visa
- Useful for regional travel (e.g. Dubai + other Gulf countries)
- Higher cost but avoids reapplying for each trip
Documents Required From South African Applicants
- Passport valid for at least 6 months from travel date, with 2 blank pages
- Recent passport-size photo (white/light background)
- Confirmed return flight (may be requested)
- Hotel booking or host invitation letter
- Proof of funds â not always required for standard tourist visas, but strengthens the application
How Long Does Processing Take?
- Standard: 2 working days for most visa types
- Transit visas: require a connecting flight ticket, processed within 2 working days
Processing can take slightly longer during UAE public holidays or peak travel periods, so applying at least a week before departure is recommended.
How to Apply for a Dubai Visa From South Africa
- Choose your visa type and entry option
- Upload passport copy and photo online
- Complete secure payment
- Receive your visa by email as a PDF â no embassy visit required
đ Check My Visa Price & Apply
Average application time: 5 minutes
Frequently Asked Questions
Do South Africans need a visa before travelling to Dubai?
Yes, a pre-approved UAE visa is required in advance.
How much does a Dubai visa cost for South Africans?
Prices vary by visa type and processing speed â see the fee table above.
How long does processing take?
Typically 2 working days for most visa types.
Is a bank statement required?
Not for most standard tourist visa applications, though it can strengthen your case.
Can the visa fee be refunded if rejected?
No, visa fees are non-refundable once submitted.
