Dubai, the land of glittering skyscrapers, airport buying malls the dimensions of small cities and a stopover hotspot for South Africans flying nearly wherever. However right here’s the query that South Africans transiting by all the time ask: Do I would like a visa to transit by Dubai? Let’s break down every part it’s worthwhile to know concerning the Dubai Transit Visa.
Do South Africans want a transit visa for Dubai?
Quick reply: Not all the time.
- 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 go away the airport for sightseeing, buying or a resort keep: Sure, you’ll want to use for a Dubai Transit Visa earlier than you journey.
Professional tip: Emirates and FlyDubai can assist prepare your transit visa while 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, excellent for a fast stopover.
- 96 hour Transit Visa – AED 50 (±R240), ultimate if you would like 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 record of what you’ll want:
- A legitimate South African passport (a minimum of 6 months earlier than expiry).
- a photograph of self in opposition to a white background
- A confirmed onward ticket (you need to show you’re truly in transit).
- A resort reserving for those who’re planning to step out of the airport.
- Visa software by your airline (Emirates or FlyDubai are your greatest bets).
Do I would like a visa if I’m solely connecting flights in Dubai?
- If you happen to’re flying straight by 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.
Mainly: 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 functions on-line.
- Processing time: Normally 3–5 working days, so don’t depart it to the final minute.
What is required for a transit visa software?
- a passport or journey doc with a minimal validity of three months
- an onward ticket reserving to a third vacation spot, apart 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 choice 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. That means you must make certain 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 and not using a visa?
No. Even when it’s only for recent 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 Obligation Free fragrance you don’t even need.
Now that you realize concerning the Dubai Transit Visa…
So, do South Africans want a visa to transit by 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 upfront.
