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Visa requirements · updated Jul 2026

Do United Arab Emirates citizens need a visa for South Africa?

Visa-free · 90 days

Citizens of United Arab Emirates can visit South Africa visa-free for up to 90 days. Just a valid passport at the border.

Check a visa → South Africa → United Arab Emirates
VISAXSJul 2026
→
Visa-free
United Arab Emirates → South Africa
90days

Everything for your trip to South Africa

Flights

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Hotels

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Coverage for your whole trip.

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United Arab Emirates vs South Africa: passport comparison

United Arab Emirates

128

visa-free countries

Global rank: #1 · mobility 172.7

South Africa

61

visa-free countries

Global rank: #97 · mobility 111.5
45

countries both United Arab Emirates and South Africa can enter visa-free together

South Africa: good to know

Pretoria

Capital

South African Rand (ZAR)

Currency

South Africa Standard Time (UTC+2)

Time zone

+27

Calling code

Where else United Arab Emirates goes visa-free

→ AlbaniaVisa-free · 90 days → → AndorraVisa-free · 90 days → → AngolaVisa-free · 30 days → → Antigua and BarbudaVisa-free · 90 days → → ArgentinaVisa-free · 90 days → → ArmeniaVisa-free · 180 days → → AustriaVisa-free · 90 days → → AzerbaijanVisa-free · 90 days → → BahamasVisa-free · 90 days →
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Documents you'll usually need for South Africa

The usual basics for the trip. Always confirm exact requirements with the embassy or consulate.

Valid passport

Valid at least 6 more months

Return / onward ticket

Proof you will leave the country

Proof of funds

Enough money for your stay

Accommodation

Hotel booking or an invitation

Travel insurance

Recommended, sometimes required

Up to 90 days

No visa needed for the stay

Frequently asked

Do United Arab Emirates citizens need a visa for South Africa?
Citizens of United Arab Emirates can visit South Africa visa-free for up to 90 days. Just a valid passport at the border.
How long can United Arab Emirates citizens stay in South Africa without a visa?
United Arab Emirates passport holders are allowed to stay up to 90 days per visit.
Which passport is stronger — United Arab Emirates or South Africa?
The United Arab Emirates passport is stronger: 128 visa-free countries versus 61. Global rank: United Arab Emirates #1, South Africa #97.
Where can United Arab Emirates and South Africa citizens travel together visa-free?
Both passports get visa-free access to 45 of the same countries.
What documents do I need for South Africa?
Usually: a valid passport (6+ months), a return ticket, proof of funds and accommodation. Always confirm exact requirements with the embassy.
Can visa requirements change between United Arab Emirates and South Africa?
Yes, visa rules change periodically. This data is current as of Jul 2026 — always confirm with the embassy before you travel.

United Arab Emirates passport ranking

Where else the United Arab Emirates passport can take you and how it ranks worldwide.

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