Dubai, the land of glittering skyscrapers, airport procuring malls the dimensions of small cities and a stopover hotspot for South Africans flying nearly anyplace. However right here’s the query that South Africans transiting via at all times ask: Do I would like a visa to transit via Dubai? Let’s break down every little thing it is advisable know in regards to the Dubai Transit Visa.
Do South Africans want a transit visa for Dubai?
Brief reply: Not at all times.
- Layover beneath 8 hours, staying within the airport: No visa required.
- Layover longer than 8 hours, however you stay within the transit space: Nonetheless no visa required.
- Planning to depart the airport for sightseeing, procuring or a lodge keep: Sure, you’ll want to use for a Dubai Transit Visa earlier than you journey.
For a tip: Emirates and FlyDubai may also help organize your transit visa if you e book with them. All the time verify along with your airline earlier than you fly.
How lengthy is a Dubai transit visa legitimate for?
Dubai has two transit visa choices for South Africans:
- 48 hour Transit Visa – Freed from cost, good for a fast stopover.
- 96 hour Transit Visa – AED 50 (±R240), ideally suited in order for you just a few days to discover.
Each should be organized earlier than departure. You may’t simply “purchase one on the counter.”
What are the South African transit visa necessities for Dubai?
Right here’s the quick-and-dry listing of what you’ll want:
- A legitimate South African passport (at the very least 6 months earlier than expiry).
- a photograph of self in opposition to a white background
- A confirmed onward ticket (you should show you’re truly in transit).
- A lodge reserving should you’re planning to step out of the airport.
- Visa utility via your airline (Emirates or FlyDubai are your finest bets).
Do I would like a visa if I’m solely connecting flights in Dubai?
- If you happen to’re flying straight via and your connection is brief, you received’t want a transit visa.
- In case your connection is lengthy and also you’re tempted to ditch the terminal for some shawarma, you’ll want one.
Principally: Airport sofa = no visa. Dubai journey = visa required.
How do I apply for a transit visa?
- By way of your airline: Emirates and FlyDubai can course of purposes on-line.
- Processing time: Often 3–5 working days, so don’t depart it to the final minute.
What is required for a transit visa utility?
- a passport or journey doc with a minimal validity of three months
- an onward ticket reserving to a third vacation spot, aside from the one you’re coming from.
FAQs
Is the Dubai transit visa free?
Sure. The 48-hour visas are free however the 96-hour possibility comes with a price ticket.
How a lot is a Dubai Transit Visa?
The 96-hour Dubai Transit visa is AED 50 (about R240) as of September 2025.
Is the Dubai transit visa renewable or extendable?
Nope. The transit Visa is non-renewable and can’t be prolonged. Which means it’s a must to make sure which one you need earlier than you apply.
Can I get a Dubai visa on arrival as a South African?
No, South African passport holders do not qualify for a visa on arrival in Dubai.
Can I depart Dubai airport with no visa?
No. Even when it’s only for contemporary air, sorry, you want that transit visa.
What occurs if I don’t have a transit visa?
You’ll be caught within the airport lounge, staring longingly at Responsibility Free fragrance you don’t even need.
Now that you understand in regards to the Dubai Transit Visa…
So, do South Africans want a visa to transit via Dubai? If you happen to’re simply connecting flights and staying inside DXB, you’re good. If you wish to step out into Dubai’s glittering skyline, you’ll want to use for a transit visa prematurely.
