Traveling to South Africa from the UAE: Visa, Costs, and Travel Tips
South Africa is the perfect destination for many kind of travelers, and if you’re based in UAE, this place is the easiest because you can experience its stunning landscape, vibrant cities and awesome wildlife. With such exotic places waiting for you, such as being on a safari, Table Mountain in Cape Town or Robben Island, you’re not short of things to do in South Africa. Before you put your bags in the cases, however, make sure your travel documents are in place. In order to obtain a South Africa Visa from UAE, it is important to know what to expect.
The South Africa Visa application process for UAE residents is simple, but as always, it’s best to apply in advance to avoid any stress in the last minute. If you are well prepared and know everything about the visa requirements you will be prepared for an unbelievable adventure. In this article, let s walk you through everything you need to know about visa process, travel cost and few tips to ease your travel to this wonderful country.
Here’s a quick guide to traveling to South Africa from the UAE: Visa, Costs, and Travel Tips.
1. Visa Requirements for South Africa from the UAE
In order to take off, you must first get a South Africa visa. For UAE residents, the process is quite simple. For short stays, you will require a tourist visa and this is the basic things which you need to get started.
- Required Documents: Valid passport (with at least 30 days validity), passport sized photographs, completed visa application form, flight bookings, hotel reservations, proof of financial means are required documents.
- Visa Processing Time: Visas take an average of 7-10 working days and it is always best to apply with plenty of time.
Keep in mind that if you are applying from India or have connections there, you can also apply for a South Africa visa from India. So the process is similar and there are a number of agencies to help you through the application.
2. Costs of Traveling to South Africa
South Africa is surprisingly cheap when it comes to budgeting for a trip. What you can expect is as follows:
- Flights: Depending on the time of year, flights from the UAE to South Africa can range from AED 2,500 to AED 4,000 and up, but the more you book in advance, the cheaper the ticket will be.
- Accommodation: South Africa has a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. Budget hotels or hostels are available from around AED 150–300 per night, while mid-range hotels or guest houses are AED 500–1,000 per night. The high-end resorts may cost you AED 1,500+ for a more luxurious experience.
- Daily Expenses: Food, transportation, activities travelers will spend around AED 200–400 per day. Something can be fine dining and a tour and more or a bit of more affordable local options.
3. Best Time to Visit South Africa
Visiting South Africa is possible all year round, but the best Seasons for a visit is based on the kind of experience you’re looking to have.
- For Wildlife and Safaris: The Dry Season (May – Sept) is the best time for safaris as animals gather around waterholes making them easier to spot.
- For Beach Lovers: Summer (November to February) is the time to go if you want to enjoy the beautiful beaches in Cape Town, the weather is warm and sunny.
No matter when you visit, you will always find something to see or do in South Africa.
4. Travel Tips for UAE Residents Visiting South Africa
First off you are all set with the visa and the money part so here are some practical travel tip that you can take as well in order to make your trip even more fun.
- Language: Communication shouldn’t be a problem as English is widely spoken across South Africa.
- Currency: The South African Rand (ZAR) is the local currency. However, it’s a good idea to exchange some currency in advance, but ATMs are everywhere.
- Health and Safety: Make sure to make yourself vaccinated at your care provider before you departure to keep you won’t want to forget travel insurance for mind’s peace either.
- Safety: While South Africa is generally safe for tourists, tourists should always be careful in busy areas and not display valuables.
Conclusion
The good thing is that traveling to South Africa from the UAE is an interesting and cheap trip. South Africa is full of natural landscapes of wonder, wildlife spotting on a safari, a bustling city life, there’s something for everyone. Don’t wait until you are about to leave to South Africa to get your South Africa Visa, make sure to do it well in advance to avoid any travel stress and always plan ahead to make the most of your time in this amazing country.
If you plan your trip to South Africa well, you will have lots of memories of adventure, breath – taking scenery and a wonderful & unique cultural experience. Therefore, apply for your South Africa Visa and get ready to travel to South Africa.
