Visiting South Africa on a visa from Dubai can be smooth if you have the right information. This includes checking requirements early, understanding visa types, using a reliable service, and more
According to reports, from January to March 2024, international tourist arrivals in South Africa reached 2.4 million, showing a significant 15.4% rise compared to the same period in 2023.
From Dubai alone, 3245 tourists visited South Africa from January to March 2024.
If you plan to obtain a South Africa Tourist Visa from Dubai, UAE, this guide is just for you.
It will give you a detailed understanding of:
- Who needs a visa from Dubai to South Africa?
- What documents do you need to submit?
- What eligibility requirements must you meet?
- Step-by-step guide on how to get a tourist visa to South Africa.
- The common mistakes that lead to delays and visa rejection.
Being aware of these factors will save you money, avoid delays, and reduce the frustration typically faced during the visa application process.
Let’s delve into the topic, shall we?
What You Need to Know Before Applying for a South African Tourist Visa from Dubai
You might be captivated by the mesmerizing beauty of South Africa. Here is some essential information you should know while planning your trip from Dubai to South Africa. Let’s find answers to your questions.
Types of South African Tourist Visa
If you are planning to explore South Africa from Dubai, here are the types of visas available. Choose one based on your needs and goals.
- Short Stay Tourist Visa: This visa is for people visiting South Africa for a short vacation. It lets you stay for up to 30 days for leisure purposes.
- Transit Visa: You need this visa if you are passing through South Africa on your way to another country. It is valid for up to 72 hours.
- Medical Visa: You can apply for this visa if you are visiting South Africa for medical treatment or consultation. It allows you to stay for a short time while receiving healthcare.
- Short-term Visitor’s Visa (up to 90 days): This visa is for general tourism and lets you stay for up to 90 days.
- Long-term Visitor’s Visa (more than 90 days): This visa is for longer visits, such as for journalists, visiting professors, or volunteers. You may need to provide extra documents from your host and your home country.
Who needs a visa for South Africa from Dubai?
The United Arab Emirates consists of residents (the expatriate community) and citizens (Emiratis).
South African Tourist Visa for UAE Citizens
UAE passport holders do not need a tourist visa for short-term visits if their stay is not more than 90 days. However, the passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay in South Africa.
South African Tourist Visa for UAE Residents
According to the United Arab Emirates population statistics for 2024, the UAE has 11.06 million expats, which is much more than the 1.44 million Emiratis.
It implies expats make up about 88.50% of the population, while Emiratis account for about 11.50%.To determine if you need a tourist visa for South Africa from Dubai, your nationality will be considered.
Based on information from the Home Affairs Ministry of South Africa, holders of the following passports do not need a visa to enter South Africa:
- Australia
- United Arab Emirates
- United Kingdom
- British Islands, including Guernsey, Jersey, the Isle of Man, and the Virgin Islands
- Republic of Ireland
- British Overseas Territories
Most of the other nationalities need a visa to enter South Africa as tourists. Let’s look at the documents you need to submit if you do require a visa.
South African Tourist Visa Requirements
- Visa Application Form: Complete the form using black ink only.
- Passport & Residence Visa: Both must be valid for at least 6 months. It should also have at least two blank pages for the visa and entry/exit stamps.
- Passport Copies: Submit the original passport and a copy of all relevant pages.
- Photographs: Provide two passport-sized photos (35x45mm) with a white background. Photos should be recent (within the last 6 months).
- Yellow Fever Certificate: Only needed if coming from or passing through a yellow fever zone. Not required if travelling directly from Dubai and not in a yellow fever area.
- Proof of Financial Means: An attested copy of your bank statement from the last 3 months.
- No Objection Letter: From your company or sponsor.
- Proof of Insurance: Evidence of your health insurance.
- Flight and Hotel Bookings: A round-trip flight booking details and a copy of your hotel reservation.
Keep these details in mind
- The Consulate General will not accept passports that are manually or handwritten, renewed, or extended.
- You can only submit your application up to 1 month before your travel date.
- Your original passport will be kept at the embassy for stamping.
- You must visit the visa application centre in person to submit original documents and complete biometrics.
- Service fees and visa fees are not refundable if your application is rejected.
- You need a confirmed return air ticket and hotel booking at the airport when visiting South Africa.
Now that you have a clear picture of the documents required, the next important question is how to apply. Let’s check that out!
South Africa Tourist Visa Fee and Processing Details
Visa Fee
A South African tourist visa from Dubai usually costs between AED 300 and AED 500, depending on the processing type and exchange rates.
Visa Processing Time
It normally takes 5 to 15 working days to process, but it can take longer if they need to check extra documents or during busy periods.
How to apply for a South African Tourist Visa from Dubai, UAE
- Gather the necessary documents along with the visa application fee.
- Print and fill out the visa application form and prepare any extra documents if needed.
- The applicant must submit the application in person at the VFS visa application centre.
- Applications will be accepted only after verifying all required documents and receiving full payment.
When a visa rejection happens, it can be heartbreaking for the applicant. The good news is that there is an opportunity for resubmission. However, a little caution goes a long way! You need to be aware of certain things to avoid a South African tourist visa rejection from Dubai.
On Arrival: What to Expect at South African Immigration
If you are eligible for a visa on arrival for South Africa, you must be prepared to avoid delays, questioning, or even denial at the border. Make sure you have all your documents ready. Refer to the list below for the exact documents you need to present at the border.
Here’s what immigration officers may ask for when you land in South Africa:
- Valid passport: Must be valid for at least 30 days after your intended departure, with two blank pages.
- Confirmed return or onward ticket: Proof that you will leave the country before your visa expires.
- Proof of accommodation: Hotel booking confirmation or an invitation letter if staying with family or friends.
- Travel insurance: Coverage for medical emergencies and repatriation during your stay.
- Proof of financial means: Recent bank statements, cash, or a credit card to show you can cover your expenses.
- Visa approval letter: If you applied for your visa in advance.
Travel Tips for UAE Residents Visiting South Africa
When you visit a new place, especially if you are traveling from a safe country like Dubai, you may have many concerns, from safety to important things you need to take care of. Don’t worry. We have compiled tips from our travelers. Just go through them and keep them in mind while exploring tourist spots in South Africa.
For UAE residents planning a trip to South Africa, here’s your easy guide:
Best Time to Visit :
- Safaris: Go between May and September (winter) for the best wildlife viewing. The weather is cooler and drier, and animals gather near waterholes.
- Beaches: Visit between December and March (summer) for sunny days and warm beach weather along the south coast.
- Shoulder Seasons: April, May, September, and October offer pleasant weather, fewer tourists, and sometimes local festivals.
- Specific Regions: The Winelands look stunning in autumn (March to May) with golden vineyards.
Flights & Travel :
- Emirates and South African Airways fly direct from Dubai to Johannesburg and Cape Town.
- Many other airlines offer connecting flights.
- Book your flights early, especially during peak seasons.
- Carry a valid passport and a South African tourist visa before you travel.
Money & Currency
- South Africa uses the Rand (ZAR).
- ATMs are easy to find, but use them in safe, well-lit areas.
- Carry cash discreetly—use a money belt or hidden pouch.
- Tipping is part of the culture—leave 10–15% in restaurants and for services.
Safety Tips
- Stay alert in public spaces and avoid walking alone at night in quiet areas.
- Hide valuables like wallets, phones, and cameras.
- Use taxis or pre-booked cars instead of public transport in certain areas.
- If you drive, remember South Africans drive on the left. Watch for potholes, pedestrians, and follow road rules.
- Download offline maps or use GPS for safe navigation.
- On safari, stay inside your vehicle and follow park rules.
- Watch out for petty theft and avoid leaving belongings in plain sight.
Local Etiquette
- Tipping is common – be ready to tip for good service.
- Dress modestly; avoid very flashy or revealing clothing.
- Respect local customs and traditions.
- Greet people with a firm handshake – it’s the norm.
Common South African Visa Application Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Mistake: Incomplete Documentation
Solution: Check the Department of Home Affairs website or talk to us (We have helped 1000+ customers so far) to make sure you have all the documents needed for your visa type. Create a checklist and carefully review each item well before submitting your application.
Mistake: Applying for the wrong visa category can lead to delays or rejection.
Solution: Understand the different visa options and choose the one that best fits your needs. If you’re unsure, consult a visa expert who can guide you through the process and help you select the right visa category.
Mistake: Not showing enough funds to support yourself during your stay.
Solution: Provide accurate financial statements and proof of income. Collect all documents that show your financial stability, like bank statements from the past few months, payslips, tax returns, or proof of investments. If you have a sponsor, include their financial documents as well.
Mistake: Doing the visa process all by yourself.
Solution: Seek advice from a qualified immigration consultant or someone familiar with South African immigration processes. Their expertise can help you understand the legalities, meet all requirements, and increase your chances of a successful visa application.
Do you want to visit South Africa without visa complications?
Are you eager to satisfy your wanderlust? South Africa offers everything for various tourist goals. However, getting a tourist South African visa from Dubai can be challenging without expert help.
You might be unsure about the required documents, miss some steps, or face misinformation from unauthorised sources. Why deal with complications?
The Visa Guy is here to make getting your South African visa easy. Our services include:
- Expert consultation
- Booking appointments at Visa Application Centres or the appropriate consulates/embassies
- Assistance with document verification and preparation, if needed
Remember, Visa applications can be complicated and time-consuming. With our visa assistance, you can avoid confusing paperwork, wasted time, stress, and frustration. Connect with The Visa Guy and trust us to care for everything so that you can enjoy a worry-free vacation.
FAQs
1. Can I get a visa on arrival in South Africa?
You cannot get a visa when you arrive in South Africa, and airline staff must check that you have a visa before you board. If you arrive without a visa, immigration officials will have to send you back to your home country on the next flight.
2. Do you need an invitation letter to visit South Africa?
If you’re visiting for a regular holiday, you need to show proof of a hotel booking and/or an invitation letter from a South African citizen or permanent resident.
3. Can I go to the South African Embassy without an appointment?
No. You should schedule an appointment at VFS Dubai for the visa procedure. We can assist you in making an appointment at VFS and save you time.
4. Is there an e-visa for South Africa?
Yes, South Africa offers an e-visa through the Ministry of Home Affairs.
To apply for an e-visa, all foreign visitors need three documents:
- Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least three more months and have two blank pages.
- Email Address: Your visa will be emailed to you for a quick and easy process.
- Means of Payment: Pay the fees online with a debit or credit card.
Besides these, depending upon the purpose of the visit, you have to submit additional documents.
5. How long does it take to get a tourist visa to South Africa?
Usually, it takes 10 working days. It may take a little longer if it is peak time.
6. How long should the UAE residence visa be valid to enter South Africa?
The UAE residence permit must be issued at least 3 months before, and it must be valid for at least 3 months from the date of return.
7. What are the South Africa tourist visa requirements for Dubai residents?
If you live in Dubai and want to visit South Africa for tourism, you need a valid passport, a filled-out visa application form, passport-sized photos, proof of your return or onward travel, proof of where you will stay, recent bank statements, and an employment letter. Your employer may also need to give you a No Objection Certificate (NOC). You might also need a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate.
8. Can Indians apply for a South African tourist visa from Dubai? Are there Indian specific requirements?
Yes, Indians living in Dubai can apply online for a South African tourist visa. You don’t need to visit the embassy, as the process is done through VFS, and Indians are also eligible for the South Africa eVisa. Make sure all your documents are accurate and valid. If you face any trouble while applying or need assistance at any step, kindly contact our South African visa consultants.
9. How much are the South Africa tourist visa fees and service charges?
The South African visa fee is approximately 86 AED (United Arab Emirates dirhams)
10. How do I submit the South Africa tourist visa application from Dubai?
To apply for a South African tourist visa from Dubai, book an appointment at the South Africa Visa Application Centre in Dubai. Gather all the required documents, fill out the application form, and attend your appointment with both the originals and copies. You may also need to provide biometric data.
11. Can I authorize a representative company or agent to submit on my behalf?
No, it is not possible to authorize someone, but you can ask for assistance at a visa application center like The Visa Guy.
12. Can I travel to the Maasai Mara with a South African tourist visa?
No, you can’t visit the Maasai Mara in Kenya with a South African tourist visa. If you’re in Dubai and want to explore the Maasai Mara, you need to apply for a Kenya visa from Dubai separately.
13. Does South Africa allow visiting multiple countries, like the East African Tourist Visa?
No, South Africa doesn’t offer a visa that lets you visit multiple countries like the East African Tourist Visa, which allows entry to Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda with a single visa.
