Dubai, the land of glittering skyscrapers, airport shopping malls the size of small cities and a stopover hotspot for South Africans flying practically anywhere. However here’s the concern that South Africans transiting through always ask: Do I need a visa to transit through Dubai? Let’s break down whatever you require to understand about the Dubai Transit Visa.
Do South Africans need a transit visa for Dubai?
Brief answer: Not always.
- Layover under 8 hours, staying in the airport: No visa needed.
- Layover longer than 8 hours, however you remain in the transit location: Still no visa required.
- Planning to leave the airport for sightseeing, shopping or a hotel stay: Yes, you’ll need to make an application for a Dubai Transit Visa before you take a trip.
Pro tip: Emirates and FlyDubai can help arrange your transit visa when you book with them. Always validate with your airline before you fly.
For how long is a Dubai transit visa legitimate for?
Dubai has two transit visa options for South Africans:
- 2 days Transit Visa– Free of charge, best for a quick stopover.
- 96 hour Transit Visa– AED 50 ( ± R240), ideal if you want a couple of days to check out.
Both should be set up before departure. You can’t simply “buy one at the counter.”
Image Credit: Freepik What are the South African transit visa requirements for Dubai? Here’s
Do I require a visa if I’m only linking flights in Dubai?
- If you’re flying directly through and your connection is short, you will not need a transit visa.
- If your connection is long and you’re tempted to ditch the terminal for some shawarma, you’ll require one.
Basically: Airport couch = no visa. Dubai adventure = visa required.
How do I request a transit visa?
- Via your airline: Emirates and FlyDubai can process applications online.
- Processing time: Normally 3– 5 working days, so don’t leave it to the eleventh hour.
What is needed for a transit visa application?
- a passport or travel document with a minimum credibility of 3 months
- an onward ticket booking to a 3rd destination, other than the one you are coming from.
Image Credit: Freepik FAQs Is the Dubai transit visa complimentary? Yes. The 48-hour visas are complimentary but the 96-hour option comes with a cost.
Just how much 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 eco-friendly or extendable?
Nope. The transit Visa is non-renewable and can not be extended. Suggesting you have to be sure which one you desire before you use.
Can I get a Dubai visa on arrival as a South African?
No, South African passport holders do not receive a visa on arrival in Dubai.
Can I leave Dubai airport without a visa?
No. Even if it’s simply for fresh air, sorry, you need that transit visa.
What occurs if I don’t have a transit visa?
You’ll be stuck in the airport lounge, gazing longingly at Duty Free perfume you don’t even desire.
Now that you know about the Dubai Transit Visa …
So, do South Africans need a visa to transit through Dubai? If you’re just linking flights and remaining inside DXB, you’re excellent. If you wish to step out into Dubai’s glittering skyline, you’ll require to obtain a transit visa beforehand.