UJ Sophiatown Residence
DiBETSA 2026 will take place at Sophiatown Residence at the University of Johannesburg’s Auckland Park Kingsway Campus, conveniently located in Auckland Park, Johannesburg.
The venue provides an ideal setting for the DiBETSA Digital Technology Showcase, project presentations, exhibitions, industry engagements, networking activities and the Awards & Gala programme.
Venue Address: UJ Sophiatown Residence, University of Johannesburg, Kingsway Avenue, Auckland Park, Johannesburg, South Africa
Getting to the Venue
Delegates travelling by car, e-hailing service or hotel transfer should use University of Johannesburg – Auckland Park Kingsway Campus / Sophiatown Residence as their destination.
Travelling to Johannesburg
Johannesburg is one of Africa’s major business, academic and transportation hubs and is well connected to destinations across South Africa, Africa and internationally.
By Air
The primary airport serving Johannesburg is:
O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB)
O.R. Tambo International Airport is Johannesburg’s principal international airport and the recommended airport for international and domestic delegates travelling by air.
Delegates are encouraged to allow adequate travel time between the airport, their hotel and the University of Johannesburg.
Lanseria International Airport
Delegates travelling on selected domestic and regional routes may also find flights arriving at Lanseria International Airport.
Please confirm the most convenient airport based on your airline, accommodation and onward transport arrangements.
Getting From the Airport
Several transport options are available from O.R. Tambo International Airport.
Gautrain
The Gautrain provides a fast rail connection between O.R. Tambo International Airport and several areas of Johannesburg. Delegates may travel from the airport using the Gautrain and continue their journey to Auckland Park using an e-hailing service or other local transport.
E-Hailing Services
Services such as Uber and Bolt operate throughout Johannesburg and are widely used for travel between:
Passengers are encouraged to use the official designated e-hailing collection areas at the airport.
Hotel Airport Transfers
Many Johannesburg hotels provide airport shuttle or private transfer services. International delegates are encouraged to enquire with their selected hotel when making a reservation.
Accommodation
Delegates are responsible for arranging and paying for their own accommodation.
A number of hotels are conveniently located within Auckland Park, Melville, Rosebank, Sandton and surrounding areas, providing easy access to the University of Johannesburg.
For convenience, delegates may consider accommodation in the following areas:
Auckland Park & Melville
Ideal for delegates who would like to stay close to the University of Johannesburg and the DiBETSA venue.
Rosebank
Rosebank provides a wide range of hotels, restaurants and retail facilities and is connected to O.R. Tambo International Airport via the Gautrain.
Sandton
Sandton offers a broad selection of international and business hotels and is also connected to the Gautrain network.
Visa Information
International delegates are encouraged to confirm South African entry and visa requirements well in advance of travelling. Visa requirements differ depending on nationality, passport type and length or purpose of stay.
Delegates who require a visa should consult the South African Department of Home Affairs or the nearest South African Embassy, High Commission or Consulate for the latest requirements.
The DiBETSA organising team can provide a conference participation or invitation letter to registered international delegates where required to support a visa application.
Please note that an invitation letter does not guarantee that a visa will be issued. Visa decisions remain entirely at the discretion of the relevant South African authorities.
Passport Requirements
International visitors should ensure that their passport and travel documents comply with current South African immigration requirements for their nationality. Please verify the latest requirements with official South African immigration authorities before travelling.
Requesting a Visa Support Letter
Registered international delegates requiring an invitation letter should contact the DiBETSA organising team and provide:
Delegates are strongly encouraged to begin the visa process as early as possible.
Travel Insurance
International delegates are encouraged to obtain appropriate travel and medical insurance covering the duration of their stay.
Exploring Johannesburg
Johannesburg is South Africa’s largest city and one of Africa’s major centres for business, innovation, education, culture and technology.
Delegates extending their stay may wish to explore some of Johannesburg’s leading attractions, including:
Delegates should plan leisure activities according to their individual schedules and travel arrangements.
Weather
October falls within Johannesburg’s spring season. Delegates can generally expect warm daytime conditions with cooler mornings and evenings, although weather conditions can vary. We recommend checking the local weather forecast shortly before travelling.
Currency & Payments
South Africa’s official currency is the South African Rand (ZAR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, shopping centres and major businesses. International delegates should consult their bank regarding international card usage and any applicable transaction charges.
Electricity
South Africa primarily uses 230V electricity. International visitors are encouraged to check whether a suitable travel adapter is required for their electronic devices before travelling.
Mobile Connectivity
Mobile data and Wi-Fi services are widely available throughout Johannesburg. International delegates may purchase local SIM or eSIM services depending on their individual requirements.
Safety & Getting Around Johannesburg
As with any major international city, delegates are encouraged to take normal travel precautions. We recommend:
Need Travel Assistance?
The DiBETSA organising team will be happy to assist delegates with general event-related travel enquiries, venue information and visa-support documentation.
DiBETSA 2026
Digital Built Environment Technology Showcase & Awards
University of Johannesburg
21 October 2026 | Johannesburg, South Africa
Contact: Ms Thobile Ntombela (Carinbe@uj.ac.za)
A Special Thanks to the DiBETSA Organisers
