Royal landing | Government clears air over UAE plane

PRETORIA - Government has cleared the air over the landing of the UAE President's plane in Bisho.

There was widespread outrage when the royal family touched down at a military base.

The Presidency says the courtesies extended are in line with international standards.

It says Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan followed the correct procedures.

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"Part of the preparations for the president's visit to the Eastern Cape was the issuing by the Department of Home Affairs of visas to members of the entourage who needed visas to enter South Africa," said Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni.

"Other members of the entourage carried passports from countries with whom South Africa has visa-free travel agreements.

This means that the department can account for every one of the visitors accompanying the president," she said.

Meanwhile, Home Affairs Minister Aaron Motsoaledi said the UAE is one of six countries whose citizens can enter South Africa without a visa.

Motsoaledi says Al Nahyan's landing at the base is not uncommon.