South African Representation in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates:

Diplomatic Officials, Abu Dhabi:

HE Yacoob Abba Omar, Ambassador

Mr M S Makena, Counsellor

Mr Mathule Phillemon Sechabe, First Secretary (Administration)

Mrs Dintletse Ntombela, Attaché

How The South African Embassy Can and Cannot Help You Abroad

Even though the South African Embassy strives to provide an efficient service to our citizens abroad, in accordance with both South African regulations and international law there are limitations to what can and cannot be done.  Should South African citizens encounter serious problems whilst abroad, the nearest Embassy / High Commission / Consulate-General (mission) should be contacted for advice.

What the South African Mission in the UAE can do:

Consular Services:

• Police clearance (only finger prints).

• Issue letter for local Traffic Department to clarify code on valid South African driver’s license.

• Issue certificate of authentication.

• Certify and witness signatures.
• Assist with arranging for next of kin to be notified of an accident, illness or death and advise them on procedures.
• Supply a list of local doctors / lawyers.
• Assist South African citizens during extreme emergencies such as natural disasters and civil unrest.
• Supply advice for the transferal of funds from the next of kin for citizens in financial distress abroad at their request.
• Contact and visit South African citizens in prison at their request and assist with arrangements for the transfer of funds from the next of kin to the detainee.
• Warden System.

Immigration & Civic Services:

• Process passport applications and issue temporary passports.

• Re-issue of a South African identity document.

• Registration of a South African birth / death (abroad) - (new born babies, as well as late-registrations).

• Amendments - Change of surname and/or forenames (minors & adults).

• Rectifications of birth registrations, identity documents and/or passports.

• Issue letter to confirm marital status (letter of no impediment).

• Issue of marriage/birth/death certificates.

• Solemnization of marriage.

What the South African Mission cannot do:

• Obtain visas, work/study/residence permits in other countries.
• Act as an employment agency.
• Pay for medical attention received, legal fees/ fines, hotel or transport accounts, or become involved in any disputes arising from these expenses.
• Arrange for hotel/travel bookings or private meetings.
• Give legal advice, initiate court proceedings or intervene in court proceedings.
• Obtain a prisoners release.
• Obtain special treatment for South African citizens in hospitals, jails and in their general dealings with the local authorities, than what is provided for local citizens.
• Attend to banking/financial arrangements on behalf of members of the public.
• Assist dual nationals in their country of second nationality.
• Store luggage.
• Facilitate/advice on household removal procedures (furniture, cars, pets, general import duty information).
• Obtaining a new format South African Drivers’ License.

Please note that the SA Embassy would be closed during the following important days. These days are reviewed annually: