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How to get a mobile SIM card for tourists in Dubai

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Discover the Best Dubai SIM Cards for Hassle-Free Tourist Travel

Dubai Tourist SIMs and eSIMs for the UAE explained

Are you planning on visiting Dubai? If yes, then you’ll probably need a Dubai tourist SIM card!

As well as being a rather Instagram-famous city, it’s almost always necessary to have internet when travelling these days. From retrieving travel booking details to ordering taxis and meals while you’re on the go, trust us; there’s an app for everything in Dubai !

Although you’ll get access to a Wi-Fi network in most places in Dubai, what if you’re on the go? That’s when you’ll need a travel SIM in Dubai to make calls, use social media, or use Maps to navigate the city or call a driver.

For your ease and convenience, we have put together everything you need to know about getting a SIM card in Dubai for tourists, as well as Dubai eSIM options you can arrange before your arrival.

You will find detailed information in this article, from the mobile network operators in Dubai to the best SIM card and even how to pre-order a Dubai SIM, so you’re ready to go.

1. Du SIM Card in Dubai for Tourists

2. etisalat dubai tourist sim, 3. virgin mobile travel sim in dubai, airalo esim, kitmytrip – via getyourguide, frequently asked questions (faqs) on dubai tourist sims, mobile operators in the uae.

Getting a Dubai tourist SIM is a pretty straightforward process. However, there are multiple mobile operators in the UAE, so it gets rather confusing for tourists to decide which mobile network SIM they should go for based on the packages offered.

However, there’s no need to worry, as we have simplified everything for you! Below, you will find a list of mobile operators in the UAE with information about purchasing their SIM and which operator is the most suitable for you.

Du is a mobile operator in UAE, launched in 2007. If you want to get a Du SIM card, you can get one on arrival at the airport or from the Du store.

The upside of getting a Du tourist SIM from the immigration counters at the Dubai airport is that you get it for free with 1GB of local data as a welcome bonus. As for the activation, you don’t need to go through extensive steps as the SIM is already activated using your passport information.

To start using the du SIM, you simply have to insert it into your mobile and verify your date of birth via a verification text. Once the verification is complete, you will get 1GB of local data for free, valid for 24 hours .

You can also purchase a Du SIM card from its franchise store across the city. If you just buy the SIM without any package, it will cost around AED 10; however, if you activate a bundle package (starting from AED 49), you’ll get the SIM for free. You’ll just need your passport to get started.

Presently, these are the best Tourist SIM options from Du:

• 2GB valid for 28 days with 30 flexi minutes – AED 49 ($13.35 USD)
• 6GB valid for 28 days with 30 flexi minutes, unlimited internet calls – AED 99 ($27 USD)
• 10GB valid for 28 days with 30 flexi minutes, unlimited internet calls – AED 139 ($37.85 USD)
• 20GB valid for 28 days with 30 flexi minutes, unlimited internet calls – AED 189 ($51.46 USD)
• Online special – unlimited data for 7 days + exclusive attraction discounts – AED 199 ($54.20)

Learn more about Du tourist SIMs and currently available packages here

Good To Know – presently all data plans from Du come with access to the ALSAADA App – you can download this for app ( App Store / Google Play ) for additional discounts during your stay in Dubai.

Etisalat is the 18th largest mobile operator in the world and operates in more than 16 countries. Therefore, we can say that it is one of the best SIM cards for Dubai.

You can get an Etisalat SIM from the Dubai airport when you land. And while it does not offer free data, it has plenty of packages.

• If you’re only here for less than a day and you’re a light internet user – you can grab a FREE 1GB/24 hr validity Etislat eSim – yup, the same deal as Du, but it doesn’t seem to be openly advertised.
• The cheapest paid Visitor Line gives you 2GB of data + 30 flexi minutes, valid for 28 days for AED 49 ($13.30 USD).
• Visitor Line + gives you 4GB of data + 30 flexi minutes valid for 28 days for AED 79 ($21.50 USD)
• Visitor Line Premium gives you 8GB of data + 120 flexi minutes valid for 28 days for AED 125 ($34 USD)
• If you’re a heavy online user and caller, go with Visitor Line Premium + 22.5GB of data + 525 flexi minutes valid for 28 days for AED 200 ($54.50 USD), or
• Unlimited 7 Days – includes 100 flexi minutes for 200 AED ($54.50 USD)

Simialr to Du, Etisilat offers access to local rewards progrma ‘ Smiles ‘

Learn more about Etisalat tourist SIMs here

Its important to note that Visitor Line packages are valid until your visa; therefore, if you plan on staying in Dubai for good, you can switch to Etisalat’s other pre-paid and post-paid packages.

Virgin Mobile is a newer mobile operator in UAE by the Virgin Mobile brand (though it is a fully owned subsidiary of Du and uses the same network). It offers special tourist SIM cards with different packages to people visiting Dubai for business or vacations.

You can get the SIM from the airport as soon as you land; however, the tourist SIM is for one-time use. This means you can use it for as long as your package lasts and won’t be able to renew it.

Virgin Mobile offers four packages for its Dubai tourist SIM:

• A 7-day package costs AED 150 with 21GB of data (capped at 3GB per day)
• A 10-day package costs AED 200 with 40GB of data (capped at 4GB per day)
• A 7-day package costs AED 200 with unlimited data
• A 15-day package costs AED 300 with unlimited data
• A 30-day package costs AED 500 with unlimited data

Learn more about the Virgin tourist Sim here

SIMs Sold by Third-Party Companies

If you see online tour operators selling you a SIM card, it will be based on services provided by one of the above three networks.

All should have reliable coverage in metropolitan areas. Beyond that, in the mountains and the desert, it’s time to switch off and get yourself an offline map, as the network will be patchy or non-existent no matter whose network you use (they are all ultimately government-owned and share much of their infrastructure).

We are an affiliate of Airalo and earn a commission on any activated eSim plans.

As international travellers, we’ve become big fans of using Airalo eSIMs whenever possible. The eSIM they sell for the UAE is marketed as “ Burj Mobile ” (digging beneath the cover, we believe it runs on the Etisalat network, so you shouldn’t encounter any connectivity issues)

There are currently six different Burj Mobile packages

• 1GB valid for 7 Days for $4.50 USD (AED 16.53 )
• 2GB Valid for 15 days for $7.00 USD (AED 25.71)
• 3GB valid for 30 days for $9.50USD (AED 34.90)
• 5GB valid for 30 days for $13.00 USD (AED 47.74)
• 10GB valid for 30 days $21.00 USD (AED 77.12)
• 20GB valid for 30 days $35.00 USD (AED 128.53)

These have dramatically reduced in price since they were first released.

NB these are all for data only; if you think you’ll need to make phone calls too, you’re better waiting until arrival and getting a local Dubai SIM with a phone number attached!

Using Airalo is super easy. Once you purchase online, you’ll need to press activate and change any existing eSIMs on your phone to the new eSIM. The clock starts ticking as soon as you land and connect to the UAE network. (Note that in the UAE’s infinite wisdom when it comes to blocking tech, you may not be able to reach the Airalo site from the UAE, so do activate before you arrive ready).

If you are travelling more widely around the Middle East and just popping into Dubai briefly, you may also want to look at Airalo’s Middle East option, Menalink , with packages as follows:

• 1GB valid for 7 Days for $15 USD
• 2GB valid for 15 days for $28 USD
• 3GB valid for 30 days for $39 USD

Popular online tour provider Get Your Guide partners with KitMyTrip to deliver several incredible value tourist bundles to consider – they take all the guesswork of how to sign up for a network; you really have to decide how data-hungry you are!

You’ll need to find their kiosks in arrivals at DXB Terminals 1 and 3 to get your data set up ( NB not for arrivals in DXB Terminal 2, DWC airport or AUH airport in Abu Dhabi ).

• Their SIM card-only package lets you choose from 2GB, 4GB, 8GB, 22.5GB and unlimited over 7 or 14 days – starting from $15 USD – check it out here
• Another option they offer is to combine your SIM with a NOL card for public transport and entry to IMG Worlds of Adventure Theme Park – check it out here
• Pocket Wifi Rental – If you’ve got multiple devices, this one could be your solution; rent a mobile hotspot and return it after your trip – suitable for 4 to 10 days, or add extra days on – check it out here

Do read the fine print if pre-packaged SIM bundles will work for you, only 1 per passport and users must be over 18, so you can’t hand one out to each of the kids. In this instance, families should consider pocket wifi options.

The free tourist SIM is a free SIM card Du Telecommunications offers to people visiting Dubai. This SIM card can be picked up from the immigration counter at the Dubai airport and is activated using your passport details. It contains 1GB of free local data valid for 24 hours. Once the time is over, you can recharge your SIM with the various tourist packages offered by Du.

We recommend getting a SIM card on arrival in Dubai from the airport. The reason? It’s simple, it’s easy, and it’s fast. Plus, multiple SIM card sellers at the airport make buying it pretty straightforward. You have to provide your passport details, go through the various packages, and get the SIM. On the other hand, you can also pre-order your SIM card. You have to contact the mobile operator, select a package, and provide your home address in your country. The mobile operator will then mail the SIM card to your address. However, we won’t recommend this option, as it takes too long, plus you never know when you will receive the SIM via mail. Also, what if it gets lost on the way? And this method isn’t suitable if you make a sudden plan to visit Dubai. eSIM’s, on the other hand, where you don’t need a physical SIM card to be delivered, could be your easiest option these days. Simply activate it as soon as you land and you’re instantly connected, no need to queue at a counter when you get to DXB.

Based on the offers and packages by Du, Etisalat, and Virgin Mobile, the best SIM card for Dubai is Du. Because for starters, it offers a free tourist SIM to the visitors. You can quickly insert it into your mobile and get connected almost instantly. Etisalat is also a good option, but it is a bit expensive, and its Visitors Line’s validity depends on your visa expiration. However, it is a good option if you’re in Dubai for limited days. Those wanting convenience and with a compatible device should try the Airalo eSIM – it’s not the cheapest option but super easy for those who only need a little bit of data.

As mentioned earlier, getting a tourist SIM in Dubai is easy. You can either get it from the airport or the mobile network provider’s store. The representative will ask for your passport, take its copy, and register the SIM card in your name. Getting a Dubai tourist SIM card is not a big deal. It is pretty simple if you know how to go about the process.

Before you go… More important things you should know when planning a trip to Dubai

• Pop into our essential planning information page, it includes everything you need to know about getting around Dubai , a handy guide on what to pack , and top tips for first-timers on the do’s and don’ts, laws, and customs to be aware of.
• Check out this incredible list of 150+ places you should visit when you’re in Dubai .
• Pick up a Dubai Pass from iVenture or a Go City Dubai Pass to save up to 50% on top Dubai attractions.
• Don’t forget to pack your travel insurance !!!
• Discover the best areas to stay in Dubai , or bag a bargain on your accommodation here:

Take me back to the Dubai Travel Planner Blog

Please note we are not a travel agency. This site is a travel blog to help newcomers to the UAE and transit passengers self plan their trip, we cannot book your flights, hotels, visas or connections for you. We may make a small commission if you click on any of our recommendation links . Dubai Travel Planner

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DU Tourist SIM Card Prices, Visitor Packages & Offers

DU is the largest tele­com net­work in UAE, pro­vid­ing pre­paid, post­paid, broad­band, and WIFI ser­vices. This net­work is the sec­ond largest net­work in UAE which is most­ly used due to its low­est rates and SIM card prices. DU tourist SIM card already new offers which are called the Vis­i­tor SIM plans cost about AED 49. We will explain the com­plete infor­ma­tion about its pack­ages, and prices, and com­par­i­son of DU SIM card pre­paid and trav­eller SIM cards .

Table of Con­tents

A new SIM card by DU costs about a min­i­mum of AED 49 with some free call­ing min­utes and inter­net data. Cus­tomers have oppor­tu­ni­ties for free SIM cards with­out bun­dle acti­va­tion that can be obtained from any air­port in the UAE.

Tourist SIM cards with unlim­it­ed data pack­ages and calls are also avail­able at the low­est cost com­pared to oth­er net­works. If you want to use the WIFI ser­vices, Du also offers WIFI pack­ages to its cus­tomers some are free and some paid but are unlim­it­ed*.

Du Tourist SIM Card Prices _ Best Visitors Plans

• Free SIM : 1GB Data (24 Hours)
• AED 49 : 30 Flexi Mins, 2 GB, Unlim­it­ed Inter­net Call­ing
• AED 99 : 30 Flexi Mins, 6 GB, Unlim­it­ed Inter­net Call­ing
• AED 139 : 30 Flexi Mins, 10 GB, Unlim­it­ed Inter­net Call­ing

These plans, includ­ing a free SIM card, are valid for 28 days only. After this, cus­tomers can recharge the bal­ance to con­tin­ue using the ser­vices. Flexi min­utes are usable to call with­in the coun­try and inter­na­tion­al­ly.

You can get more infor­ma­tion by dialling the USSD code *101#. All the plans have free inter­net call­ing, and you can use it for free on Botim , What­sApp, Face­book, Twit­ter, and Snapchat.

Here are the more Vis­i­tor SIM card plans:

• All pack­ages include free Unlim­it­ed inter­net call­ing .
• Inter­net call­ing is valid for the Botim app
• Flexi min­utes are usable for local and inter­na­tion­al call­ings

Du vis­i­tor pack­ages are lim­it­ed which we have pro­vid­ed you with the list. If you are already liv­ing in the Emi­rates, you can buy addi­tion­al pre­paid SIM cards with dif­fer­ent pack­ages and prices.

You can buy any sim card online which will be deliv­ered to your giv­en address with­in 1 hour. All cus­tomers can use tourist SIM cards as Pay as You Go after expir­ing the pack­ages. When you buy a new SIM card, you have option to get a phys­i­cal or eSIM card.

Cus­tomers are also eli­gi­ble to get free 100GB of data on pre­paid SIM cards when they acti­vate the Du UAE app for the first time. Post­paid cus­tomers have many great options before buy­ing a SIM card in Dubai includ­ing data packs. All the infor­ma­tion we have added on our tourist page .

Du Pay As You Go Visitor SIM Card Plans

Du pay as you go SIM card price is AED 55 which comes with hun­dreds of add-ons, inter­net, call­ing and roam­ing pack­ages. If you want to buy a non-con­tract Du SIM then Pay As You Go is the best selec­tion that comes with 2 Flexi min­utes for local and inter­na­tion­al call­ing .

The best advan­tage of this offer is that you don’t have to pay month­ly fees and you can save mon­ey. When­ev­er you need inter­net, calls, and any val­ue-added ser­vices, you can eas­i­ly acti­vate them accord­ing to your needs.

Also Read: Du Inter­na­tion­al SMS Pack­ages

Tourist SIM Card Add-on

If your pack­age and data have expired pre­ma­ture­ly, you can acti­vate the addon. This addon is avail­able dai­ly and week­ly for trav­eller SIM card users.

• Dial *055# to acti­vate tourist add-ons
• Dial *135# to man­age your account

Out of Bundle Charges

Out of the bun­dle, the default rates will be applied:

How to buy a Du SIM Card in UAE?

After select­ing the SIM card you can eas­i­ly buy DU SIM at any air­port. With all the pack­age and SIM infor­ma­tion pro­vid­ed, you can select any SIM and pur­chase it from the rep­re­sen­ta­tive. If you wish to book a SIM card before you arrive in the Emi­rates, this option is also avail­able on Du’s offi­cial web­site du.ae/.

Requirements:

• You need your orig­i­nal Pass­port along with a copy

Buy a SIM Card at the Airport

• Open shop.du.ae/ from your device or get the plans card from the air­port
• select any plan accord­ing to your needs most­ly we have added all in this post
• Select the SIM card eSIM or phys­i­cal SIM card
• Insert it into your phone and acti­vate it

You can buy SIM cards by vis­it­ing any near­est Du store or sell­ing point. You must have your Emi­rates ID or pass­port to buy a SIM card.

Activating Du Visitor SIM Card

Buy­ing a SIM card from the store will be active on your Emi­rates ID or pass­port. You have to ver­i­fy your SIM card to use it.

• Insert SIM in your mobile phone and pow­er on your phone
• Upon turn­ing on your mobile, you will receive an SMS from 1220
• Reply it with your date of birth exam­ple your birth­day is “June 12, 1990”, Send ‘1990’ to 1220
• SIM card will be acti­vat­ed suc­cess­ful­ly and you will receive 1GB of data for free

Some­times cus­tomers nev­er receive SMS from 1220 which caus­es a big prob­lem and cus­tomers have to vis­it the Du store again. You can the sec­ond method to acti­vate the tourist SIM card.

• Dial *122# from your phone
• Enter your pass­port num­ber, date of arrival (accord­ing to your pass­port), and coun­try name
• After com­plet­ing all the steps, your SIM card will be acti­vat­ed with­in a short time

DU is offer­ing free SIM cards to its new users who come to the UAE for a short time. They can buy this SIM card and can get a 1GB data bonus for 24 hours. This is a lim­it­ed-time offer that is valid for only tourists or new cus­tomers.

DU SIM card is the best selec­tion if you are on a bud­get. Its 5G cov­er­age is amaz­ing and is avail­able in all urban and rur­al areas. You can call 135 to acti­vate, deac­ti­vate and know about your SIM card. You can also buy a Du eSIM card or move from a phys­i­cal SIM card to eSIM using the app. Below, we are giv­ing you all the basic infor­ma­tion that can be help­ful for you.

Helpline: 155

Pack­age Acti­va­tion: Dial *135#

Check Bal­ance: Send “Bal­ance” to 1355

Recharge/voucher: Dial *135*voucher/card num­ber#

Addon Acti­va­tion: Dial *055#

Web­site: https://www.du.ae/

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Tourist SIM Cards in Dubai 2024 [Expat recommends]

If you plan to visit Dubai, you're in for a treat. This vibrant city in the Middle East vistas. To stay connected during your visit,...

2 minute read

If you plan to visit Dubai, you're in for a treat. This vibrant city in the Middle East vistas. To stay connected during your visit, you'll need a tourist SIM card. This guide provides you with all the information you need to obtain one in Dubai.

Why Get a Tourist SIM Card in Dubai?

Firstly, it ensures you're always connected, allowing you to share your adventures online, chat with family and friends, and use online maps to explore.

Secondly, it's a cost-saving option. Using your home network in Dubai might result in high roaming charges, but a local SIM can help you avoid those hefty bills.

Thirdly, getting a SIM card in Dubai is a breeze. You'll spot several kiosks selling them right from the moment you enter Dubai International Airport. If not there, the city's major malls and tourist spots also offer them.

Where to Buy a Tourist SIM Card for Dubai?

As soon as you land at Dubai International Airport, you'll find kiosks and counters offering tourist SIM cards. It's the most convenient place to get one right after your arrival.

TelcoWorld Tip

The prices at the airport are the same as the ones in the city stores and online.

Local Telecom Providers

Du Telecom , Virgin Mobile UAE , and Etisalat are the primary telecom providers in Dubai. They have numerous branches throughout the city where you can buy and activate a SIM card.

Malls and Tourist Centers

Major shopping malls and tourist centers in Dubai also have outlets where you can purchase SIM cards.

What Documents Do You Need for a SIM Card in UAE?

To be able to purchase and activate any SIM card in UAE, you need:

to have your Passport. Non-citizens of the United Arab Emirates must submit a visa copy or stamp.

to be at least 16 years old.

In line with UAE Telecom Regulation, each passport holder is restricted to a single SIM card in the United Arab Emirates.

Tourist SIM Card Packages

Du tourist sim, telcoworld tips.

Free SIM card at Dubai Airport, including 1GB of free data

Free internet calling using the Botim app (except 2GB package)

Virgin Mobile UAE Tourist SIM

3GB limit per day for Virgin Mobile UAE Tourist SIM 21GB Data

4GB limit per day for Virgin Mobile UAE Tourist SIM 60GB Data

Free internet calling using the Botim app for Unlimited Data packages

Etisalat Visitor line

500MB GoChat Data promo for Prepaid Visitor Line Premium and Premium +

Unlimited GoChat Data promo for Prepaid Visitor Line Unlimited Data Plans

Easy apply via Airalo app

If you're planning a trip to Dubai, it's important to stay connected while you explore the stunning scenery and vibrant city life. This guide will help simplify the process of getting a tourist SIM card, so you can stay connected without overspending. Whether you're arriving at Dubai International Airport or visiting the city's malls and tourist sites, there are many options available to choose from. With a variety of packages to fit any budget or need, it's easy to find the perfect SIM card for your trip. Keep this guide handy as you get ready for your journey to this amazing Middle Eastern destination, and enjoy seamless connectivity throughout your travels. Have a safe trip!

Let us know if you have any questions or need help activating a SIM card . Leave us a comment.

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UAE Visitor SIM Cards: Which is the Best SIM Card for Dubai?

Over the last decade the popularity of Dubai as a tourist destination has surged, but thankfully the mobile phone networks in this desert city remain simple and relatively uncomplicated. But which is the best SIM Card for Dubai?

There are only two networks in the United Arab Emirates:

Both of these providers offer SIM cards designed for visitors to the country. Etisalat is the largest provider, and has more network coverage, whereas Du caters more to tourists, and has a better service reputation.

 Where to Buy?

Both of the main operators have kiosks at the arrivals. You can buy a SIM card here, or purchase one from vendors in commercial centres.

You will need to show your passport or national ID, and visa or stamp.

 Wifi Availability

Although not all hotels with have Wifi free of charge. Free wifi is available in many of the usual public places in Dubai, including public transport and malls. Wifi hotspots are also offered by Du and Etisalad.

 Coverage

Both operators give good coverage, but Etisalat has more extensive 3G and 4G coverage. However, Du have recently invested in improving this.

 Restrictions

Be aware that use of the internet in the United Arab Emirates is controlled by the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority. Censorship restrictions are in place that prevent access to certain websites and service.This means pornography, politically sensitive material, and anything that is perceived to be against the moral values of the UAE is filtered, including parts of wikipedia and some social networking sites.

Censorship restrictions also mean that VOIP services like Skype are banned- making dialling international numbers to keep in touch back home potentially quite expensive. Skype, facetime, facebook messenger calling, whatsapp voice etc, are all blocked, as are certain other apps like snapchat.

VPN services are offered by numerous companies to bypass the restrictions, but be aware that it remains an offence to use VPN to commit a crime, or to try to prevent its discovery. This is illegal under the cybercrime law and can be punishable by fines and temporary imprisonment.

Although you might only be using the VPN for a legitimate reason, as the data is encrypted, this might be difficult to prove.

‘Our top pick for most visitors’

The Etisalad Visitor Line is a versatile offering which allows you to choose from a variety of different voice, data, and text bundles, and also lets you take advantage of the largest 4G and 3G network coverage in the UAE.

The Sim is valid for 90 days, and bundles are valid for 14 days.

• The talk, text & surf bundle gives you 40 Local & International minutes + 40 Local & International SMS + 700MB mobile data
• The talk & text bundle gives you 60 Local & International minutes + 60 Local & International SMS
• The surf bundle gives you 1GB mobile data + 5 hours over Etisalat Wi-Fi

 Topping Up

The easiest way is probably to use the Etisalat UAE App, which also provides live support. Alternatively, you can top up at any Etisalat outlets. Simply buy a recharge card and follow the instructions.

 Benefits

• Free one Careem ride in the UAE to the value of AED 100.

 Customer Service

• Call: 00 971 400 4 44101

 Useful USSD Codes

• Check your phone number #132#
• Check your balance #134#

 Rates

When the bundle runs out, rates are as follows:

The Du Seven day tourist SIM provides you with 200MB, 20 flexible minutes, and 20 flexible SMS for an AED 55 activation fee (15 USD).

Flexible in this case meaning to national and 100 international destinations.(premium rate numbers excluded)

To to up you need to buy an e-voucher or recharge card, available at any of the shops or partner stores in UAE. (Axiom, Eros, Jumbo, Fono or One Mobile).

This offer also comes with vouchers for local r transportation, dining, entertainment and leisure. This includes Uber, The Entertainer and Dollar Rent-a-Car, which claims to be worth over AED 1,500 value in total.

• Call: 155 or 800 155 Overseas: +971 55 5678 155
• Check your balance *135#

If you run out of data,  you can buy an additional data bundle, and the SIM is valid for a maximum of  90 days. If your initial bundle of calls or SMS runs out, you will pay these rates.

United Arab Emirates Phone Numbers

Mobile phone numbers in the United Arab Emirates are ten digits long and start with 7. 

The country code for the UAE is +971

To call your mobile in the United Arab Emirates from abroad, callers will need to dial 00971 and then your number. 00 (International Access Code) 971 (UAE Country Code).

Useful Contacts

Emergency + Police: 999 Police non emergency: 901 Ambulance: 998/999 Fire: 997 Coastguard: 996

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Home / Best Dubai Tourist Sim Card Guide 2024

Best Dubai Tourist Sim Card Guide 2024

30 th december, 2020 updated.

One crucial travel necessity in a foreign country is a SIM card and choosing the best SIM card can make all the difference to your holiday trip . Our best Dubai Tourist SIM Card Guide 2024 will explain to you the different options and how you can choose the best SIM card while considering your requirements.

Table Of Contents

• 2. Airport wifi & Getting a Sim in Dubai airport
• 3. The main telecom service providers
• 4. Malls & attractions wifi
• 5. Abu Dhabi sim card for tourist
• 6. International sim card for UAE
• 7. Photography guide in Dubai
• 8. Offensive language and social media

Airalo has figured out an idea that is bound to make communication for travellers easy as eating cake. Most smartphones now come with an eSim which is embedded in the device. Although this eSim exists, very few are aware of how to set it up and use it. This is where Airalo will help as they are the first eSIM store in the world that sells local and international SIMs that don't take long to set up.

How Airalo works?

Click here to view the eSIM packages on offer for Dubai. After you decide which plan to buy, make the payment through credit card, PayPal or in-app currency known as Airmoney. You will then be given a QR code. This code can then be scanned by any devices that have built-in eSIMs. This can be done by visiting Settings and then clicking on eSIM menu.

After the QR code has been scanned, the new eSIM profile will be downloaded into the device for that specific destination. Network connections will become active after you enter the country for which you purchased the eSIM. A single device can hold up to 50 different eSIMs making it possible to travel to different destinations and keep changing your email for instant coverage.

If you are buying an Airalo eSIM for Dubai, you need to select United Arab Emirates.

Pros of Using Airalo

The biggest pro of using Airalo is that it provides easy access to international eSIMs for an affordable price which doesn't take much long to set up. An US eSIM can be set up in a matter of 5 minutes.

Airport wifi & Getting a Sim in Dubai airport

You can access free Wi-fi at Dubai International airport (DXB) and Al Maktoum International airport (DWC) by following these steps

• Go to Settings tab in your phone and turn on the Wi-fi.
• Under "Public Networks" you will see "DXB free Wi-fi". Click on it to connect
• Go to the web browser and click on "Get online now" to experience high-speed WiFi for free at DXB.

Free Sim cards for Dubai tourist

On arrival at Dubai Airport, tourists can get a free SIM card with free talk time and data.

Source: Gulf News

How the free Sim card works

To be able to register your free SIM card you need to be 18 years or older. Your passport and a valid UAE visit visa need to be shown for identification and verification purposes. The SIM has a one-month validity and is preloaded with 3 Flexi minutes and 20 MB data.

To activate the free SIM, insert SIM card into phone, dial *122# and follow the instructions.

Where to get it

It can be obtained at the Passport control counter before the baggage collection area. Travelers from any flight can take this sim.

The main telecom service providers

Dubai has only 2 telecom service providers, Du and Etisalat. Majority of tourists staying in or near Dubai have reported no difference in signal strength, coverage or speed between the 2 networks. If you want to wander the untravelled paths then Etisalat is the best prepaid SIM card.

Where to find a SIM card at Dubai airport

There is one stall each for both Du and Etisalat at all of the 3 Dubai Airport(DXB) terminals.

• Terminal 1 Arrivals. Straight ahead, slightly to the left, after exiting customs.
• Terminal 2 Arrivals. To the left, further down, after exiting customs.
• Terminal 3 Arrivals. To the left, after exiting customs
• Terminal 1 Arrivals. To the right after exiting customs.
• Terminal 3 Arrivals. To the left, after exiting customs.

SIM cards can also be purchased from commercial centres and shopping malls where the mobile network representatives will assist you.

Packages available for tourist

Du offers free sim and below are the packages.

How to activate Du SIM?

• Insert the SIM into your phone.
• Dial *122# (and keep your passport on hand).
• Enter your passport number, country name and date of arrival when requested.
• If you’re eligible and the details you entered are correct, you’ll get a notification that your activation request is in process, as well as a confirmation SMS with your assigned mobile number once it’s active.
• Once you receive your confirmation SMS, dial 135 to select a language and start enjoying our services

Etisalat offers free sim and below are the packages

Malls & attractions wifi

Dubai has numerous Malls, attractions and places where free Wi-fi is offered. Listed below are fe places you can enjoy free connectivity.

Mall of the Emirates

The Mall of Emirates is not just a glamorous shopping spot, it is also an amazing entertainment hub. More than 630 retail outlets including International lifestyle and fashion brands give you a wide option to shop from. Some of the mandatory to-dos include visiting SKI Dubai and Magic Planet. You can also try Yalla! Bowling or watch something at Dreamscape VR VOX Cinema.

To use free wi-fi choose #Free_Mall_Wifi from the list of available networks. If you need more help, the mall's numerous customer service desks can assist you.

Al Barsha, Sheikh Zayed Road, Interchange Four, Dubai, UAE

Sunday to Wednesday: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm | Thursday to Sunday: 10:00 am to 12:00 am

+971-4-409-9100

Another favourite of locals and tourists, Dubai mall has numerous luxury and retail outlets. It also connects to two 5 star hotels, Address Boulevard and Address Dubai Mall. You can choose “@Dubai Mall by Emaar” to access free internet.

Financial Centre Road, Along Sheikh Zayed Road, next to Burj Khalifa, Dubai

Sunday to Thursday: 10:00 am – 12:00 midnight | Friday and Saturday: 10:00 am to 01:00 am

800-38224-6255

Dubai festival city mall

This mall has numerous retail options from luxury brands to reputed lifestyle brands which is why it is frequented by tourists and locals. The Mall's captivating laser show known as IMAGINe is a must-watch. If you're a movie junkie then watch a Hollywood or Bollywood blockbuster at NOVO cinema. Free WiFi can be used while shopping in the mall.

Dubai Festival City

10:00 am – 12:00 midnight

Some of the other malls in Dubai with free Wi-Fi

• WAFI Mall Dubai
• Dubai Marina Mall
• City Centre Mirdiff
• City Centre Deira
• The Springs Souk
• Souk Madinat Jumeirah

Abu Dhabi sim card for tourist

Abu Dhabi international airport also has Du and Etisalat counters. Travellers landing in Abu Dhabi can purchase a local Du/ Etisalat SIM. They can also purchase from a range of pre-paid or post-paid packages, smart devices and e-Life packages.

• Du Abu Dhabi Airport T1
• Abu Dhabi Airport, Terminal 1 Arrivals, Abu Dhabi
• Timing: 24/7
• Etislat Abu Dhabi Airport T1

International sim card for UAE

Here is our round-up of 2021's 7 top International SIM card providers. With our comparison of their features, benefits and costs, you can easily decide which of these providers will best suit your requirements.

• Triple-punched (Standard, Micro and Nano) prepaid International SIM card.
• Free SIM, only pay for top-up
• Variety of Call, Data and SMS plans to choose from.
• Top-up doesn't expire if SIM is used at least once per year.
• Virtual Numbers Service for a monthly fee with added phone numbers (free UK and USA numbers) for over 50 different countries.
• Card works in 200 countries
• Receive free incoming calls in 118 countries
• Reduce roaming costs by 95%
• Use Virtual Numbers Service to roam with current mobile number without roaming charges.
• Free UK(+44) and USA(+1) mobile number.

Purchase from data-only packages offering up to 4 GB or voice+ data bundles covering more than 100 countries. You can also top-up with only credit. Prices of packages and rates for data, texts and calls vary depending on the country.

See this page for up-to-date bundle prices for each country. Luckily, there’s a nice little rate calculator on this page .

• Prepaid International SIM fitting standard, micro and nano card slots.
• 3 varieties of SIM; Universal, Expedition and Europe & more.
• Comes with $10 credit for data, texts and voice.
• All three cards come with free 2 numbers; an Estonian (+372) European number and Australian, Canadian, UK or US number.
• Add unlimited Personal Extra Numbers from more than 60 countries.
• Mobile data as low as 20c/MB with daily, weekly and monthly packages available.

Universal SIM

cost-$29.95

• The European number can receive free incoming calls in 162 countries.
• Coverage in more than 200 countries.
• Voicemail service with free email delivery.

Expedition SIM

cost-$34.95

• Ideal for frequent travelers who require good data coverage.
• Offers internet coverage in more than 170 countries.
• Free incoming calls in 130 countries

Europe & more SIM

Cost-$19.95

• Ideal for individuals traveling within Europe.
• Coverage in 70 countries
• Direct dial calling from 45 countries
• Low calling costs from Canada and US.
• Cut up 85% on International roaming charges.
• Outgoing calls as low as 25c/Mon
• free global concierge service to assist you with reservations, language translation, roadside assistance and more.
• 45Extras with all the cards include a Wi-Fi calling app for iOS and Android devices, 24/7 live technical support

To see more information about rates for data usage, calling and texting in different countries see this page .

• Prepaid International SIM card working in over 170 countries.
• Different plans for calls, SMS and Data.
• Triple-punched SIM cards comes with an Estonian (+372) European number.
• Card costs €10 and pay extra for credit or data.
• Free incoming calls in over 135 countries.
• Incoming text messages are free in all countries.
• SIM card will remain active as long as it is topped-up at least once every 18 months.
• Prepaid Data and credit plans are available.
• Reduce roaming costs by 85%

countries are categorised into A, B and C. Plans for countries in group A are cheapest and plans for group C countries are the most expensive.

You can check the rates for calling, texting and data usage in any country here , and the prepaid data plans on this page .

• Coverage across 210 countries over 340 different networks.
• Triple-punched SIM cards comes with an Estonian (+372) European number
• Unused credit and call time valid for 18 months.
• Rates as low as $0.25 /MB for pay as you use Data.
• Money saving data plans with validity of 30 days.
• Costs $19 with $10 credit included
• Reduce roaming costs by 90%
• Free incoming calls in 135+ countries.
• Free incoming messages in all countries.

To learn more about rates for calls, data and texts in the countries you plan to visit you can use the rate calculator .

Established in 2009, KeepGo offers a Smartwatch Data SIM card and a Lifetime Data SIM Card.

Features of Lifetime Data SIM

• Triple-punched SIM
• Only for data usage can't make calls or SMS.
• Costs 49 USD with 1GB data.
• Provides coverage in 110 countries.
• Same cost for data plans regardless of travelling country. Choose from 500 MB ($14) to 10 GB ($165), with 1GB ($26), 3GB ($61) and 5GB ($88) plans
• Data plans expire within a year unless you recharge and extend it for another year.

Features of Smartwatch SIM card

• A data SIM ideal to connect your SmartWatch to 2G or 3G networks across over 110 countries.
• costs $10 with 5MB of data included
• Choose from 3 data plans with the largest being of 3GB

• Triple-punched International SIM offering data coverage in over 120 countries.
• To use: purchase X and download the GigSky smart app to activate the SIM.
• Data plans range from packages offering 300 MB to 5GB (some countries the maximum Plans are for 1GB)
• Regional plans for Asia, Europe, North America, etc.
• Non-regional plans for individual countries

You can view the latest rates for the regional data plans on this page and for the non-regional plans here .

KnowRoaming

• International SIM offering Voice calls, data and SMS.
• No SIM purchase required.
• Purchase a special sticker (cost $ 29.99) to stick over your original SIM card and convert it to a prepaid International SIM.
• Download app to operate the SIM
• Can also buy a normal SIM for $9.99
• Free US (+1) number and ability to purchase extra foreign numbers for over 50 different countries for a fee between $3 to $12.50 a month.
• Free WhatsApp data for 30 days from the date of purchase.
• Pay-as-you-use rates for data start as low as $0.15/MB
• Unlimited data plans are available in 125+ countries from $7.99 a day
• Reduce roaming charges in 200 and more countries.

You can view the company’s data plans and check pay-as-you-go rates for texts, calls and data in any country on their website.

Photography guide in Dubai

You now have internet access and can visit your social media handles. This doesn't allow you to photograph all that you see and post it. You may fall into deep trouble by going against some rule. Check below our Photography guide in Dubai

Source : Cyber Laws

Article 21 of the UAE cybercrimes law

This law states that photographing another person or invading their privacy by saving, copying, transferring, disclosing or creating electronic photos is a punishable act.Punishments for this offense include imprisonment for minimum 6 months and a fine not less than AED 150,000 and not more than 500,000 or either of these two punishments depending on the severity of the offense.

Article 378 of the UAE Penal Code, Federal Law Number 3 of 1987

This law mentions that photographing someone without his or her permission is considered an invasion of privacy and is illegal in the country. The article also mentions that if anyone publishes news, comments or pictures relating to family life or private secrets will be punished even if they are true. The punishment will be either or both of the following depending on the severity of the act. Detention for a period not more than 1 year and/or a fine not more than 10,000 AED.

Article 43 of the Federal Law Number 7 of 2002

This law prevents the act of photographing another individual without obtaining their permission and publishing that kind of picture publicly on any social media website. The article has a few exceptions:

• In incidents that have publicly taken place;
• If the photograph is related to official or public characters; or national or international celebrities; or
• If the competent public authorities have permitted such publication for the purpose of public welfare; with the provision that the exhibition or circulation of such photograph, is not prejudicial to the status of the person appearing in the photograph.

Offensive language and social media

Offensive language.

Article 373 of the Penal Code, clearly mentions that a fine(not exceeding 10,000 AED) and detention for a period not more than a year will be imposed on any individual who disgraces or insults any individual publicly without attributing any particular act to the defamed party. A fine not more than 20,000 AED or detention for not more than 2 years will be imposed if:

• The abuse injures the reputation of families OR
• Intended to achieve an illegal purpose OR
• Abuse of a public official or an individual incharge of public service during, because of, or on the occasion of performing his duty or service.

Article 374 of the Penal code also imposes a punishment of detention for not more than 6 months or a fine not more than 5,000 AED for individuals using abuse or slander over the telephone or face to face with the victim and in the presence of a third party.

Social media

Social media is governed by UAE's Cyber and Penal law. If a complaint is made under this section against a user, they can incur a hefty fine. It is highly advised for social media users to adhere to all of UAE's conduct guidelines on social media. Invasion of privacy is punishable under the Penal code and the Cyber Crimes Law, this includes not disclosing any private information that belongs to another individual, example your employer. The legal consequences could be temporary jail time and fine(Article 4). This also includes taking part in discussions that delve into another individual's confidential details

01 Can I purchase a sim card in Dubai airport?

Yes you can. For more information refer to the section in which the packages and the location is explained.

02 How to convert Du tourist sim to permanent?

If you were on visitor visa when you got the Du SIM and have now converted to a residence visa, update your visa and Emirates ID details to DU and they will make it a permanent SIM.

03 I buy Dubai sim card online before I arrive?

So far you can’t buy a UAE sim online before arriving. However, you can buy a SIM upon arrival at all airports in UAE including Dubai international airport.

04 How do I check my Etisalat sim validity ?

If you haven't been using your Etisalat SIM for 3 consecutive months, you will be charged 10 AED for every 3 months of not use if you want to have a lifetime validity. If there is no balance of 10 AED, your line will be disconnected and the number retained for a duration of 12 months. Within this 12 month period you can start reusing the line of you recharge and start using. If no usage during this 12 month duration, the line will be deactivated and it cannot be revived again

05 My du tourist sim is suspended, what do I do now?

Please visit the nearest Du branch immediately

Best Dubai SIM Cards for Tourists and Mobile Operators

Compare the best tourist sim cards in dubai to save big, learn how much they cost, where to buy them and how to activate.

Choose the best Dubai SIM cards for tourists to save money and find your way in the city. As a frequent traveller, I know how important it is to stay connected while exploring new destinations. Dubai is a city that offers a lot to see and do, and having a reliable mobile internet connection is essential to make the most of your trip. In this article, I will tell you about the best tourist SIM cards for Dubai and how to buy them, popular mobile networks, SIM card prices, Dubai eSIM cards and portable Wi-Fi devices . Keep reading to compare Dubai mobile internet packages and select the one that suits you.

Overview: Jump Here to Your Favourite Topic

Can tourists buy a SIM card in Dubai

Yes, all tourists aged 18 or older can buy a SIM card in Dubai . The process is straightforward, and you can purchase a SIM card from any mobile operator’s store or authorised resellers. You must present a valid passport and a tourist visa to complete the registration process, and the SIM card will be activated within a few hours. Only one tourist SIM per person is allowed .

Benefits of using a tourist SIM card

Using a Dubai tourist SIM card has several benefits.

• You will have access to the internet at a much lower cost than roaming charges.
• You will be able to make local (and international) calls and send text messages at affordable rates.
• Having a local number will make it easier for you to book taxis, make restaurant reservations and communicate with the locals.

All in all, having a local SIM card for Dubai will save you from exorbitant roaming charges and allow you to stay connected with your friends and family.

What to consider when choosing a Dubai tourist SIM card

• Network coverage and signal strength
• Price and plans
• Data allowances and packages
• Customer service and support

Dubai mobile operators

There are three main mobile operators in Dubai: Du , Etisalat and Virgin Mobile . All three offer a range of mobile plans for visitors catering to different needs and budgets. Mobile phone numbers in the UAE consist of 10 digits, and the UAE country code is +971 .

Du and Etisalat are the two largest mobile operators in Dubai, with extensive coverage across the city. Virgin Mobile is a newer player in the market.

How much does a SIM card cost in Dubai

The Dubai tourist SIM card price varies depending on the operator and the plan you choose. Generally, you can expect to pay on average from AED 49 for 2 GB of data and 30 min calls to AED 299 for a 14-day plan that includes unlimited mobile internet and a package of calls. Below, I will tell you more about the exact tourist SIM cards price for Dubai and UAE.

Comparison of the best Dubai tourist SIM cards: Etisalat, Du and Virgin Mobile

Virgin Mobile, Du and Etisalat offer a range of tourist SIM cards that cater to different needs and budgets. Here is a comparison of the Dubai mobile networks’ best tourist SIM cards with prices.

Etisalat SIM card price

How much is an Etisalat SIM card for tourists? Check the Etisalat SIM card plans below.

As a bonus, with an Etisalat prepaid SIM you can get discounts on several services, like Careem and Hala taxi rides, via third-party apps. Several mobile plans also include free Wi-Fi access via Etisalat’s network.

Du SIM card price

How much is a Du SIM card for tourists? Check the Du SIM card plans below.

The Dubai Airport immigration staff regularly distributes free Du SIM cards on arrival. Remember that the cards are loaded with 1 GB data available only for 24 hours and need to be topped up to use beyond that period. You should still go to the store to register and activate the free Du SIM card providing your passport and a tourist visa.

Virgin Mobile SIM card price

How much is a Virgin Mobile SIM card for tourists? Check the Virgin Mobile SIM card plans below.

Which Dubai SIM card for tourists is the best

The best Dubai tourist SIM card depends on your preferences and budget. I recommend buying Etisalat SIM for the largest mobile network and connection quality . Du’s mobile network is slightly smaller. Mobile packages of these two operators are, in general, relatively similar.

If you are looking for an affordable plan with a decent amount of data and local minutes, then Virgin Mobile’s tourist SIM card is a good option. However, you will have a daily data limit, and their mobile coverage is slightly worse compared to the other two operators.

Where to buy a tourist SIM card in Dubai

You can buy a tourist SIM card in Dubai from any mobile operator’s store or authorised reseller, including Kit My Trip . They are all located at Dubai Airport, and some can be found at big shopping malls, like the Dubai Mall and the Mall of the Emirates. You can also pre-book your Dubai SIM and conveniently pick it up on arrival at the airport.

Have Fun Dubai’s Tip : Before you get your SIM card on arrival, you can use Dubai International Airport’s Wi-Fi. Select “DXB Free Wi-Fi” and then connect to the network using your browser .

Buying SIM cards at Dubai Airport

Buying a SIM card at Dubai International Airport (Terminals 1 and 3) is easy and convenient. Etisalat, Du and Virgin Mobile have kiosks set up in the arrivals hall after you exit the baggage claim area.

Right next to them, you will also find the Kit My Trip store. It is an official and very reliable reseller. I recommend buying your Dubai tourist SIM from Kit My Trip in advance and collecting it at the airport on arrival . What is the benefit? The price is exactly the same, as in the mobile operator’s store, but the queues are shorter. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, and they helped me to quickly register the card. Buy your Etisalat SIM for Dubai with pick-up at the Kit My Trip kiosk via the link below.

To register and activate your Dubai tourist SIM, you should:

• Be 18 or above
• Present your booking email confirmation
• Provide your passport and a tourist visa

Buy your Etisalat SIM card (Dubai International Airport pick-up) here

Dubai SIM card and public transport card combo deal

Do you plan also to use public transport in Dubai ? You will need a smart NOL card to pay for your trips, including metro, bus and tram. Read more about all NOL card types here . Kit My Trip offers an excellent value deal, allowing you to get your SIM card for Dubai + NOL Silver card cheaper than buying them separately.

Buy your Dubai tourist SIM card and NOL card combo deal here

Dubai tourist eSIM: what is it and how it works

Another great option is to buy a Dubai tourist eSIM, which is a digital SIM card that can be downloaded onto your smartphone . The eSIM is linked to your phone’s IMEI number and does not require a physical SIM card.

An eSIM card has several advantages over a regular one:

• Easy to activate — even at home
• It’s a digital card, so you will not lose it
• Eco-friendly, so you save resources
• You can keep using your regular phone number
• Easy to switch between networks
• Easy to top up the balance

Buy cheap eSIM cards for Dubai via the link below on Airalo . This is a well-known and reliable eSIM cards marketplace where you can order digital cards with a mobile data package to use in the UAE, Middle East or globally. Create an account, download the app and follow the instructions to add a data package. You can easily top up the balance. Remember that tourist eSIM cards might not include phone call packages.

UAE eSIM card price (offered by Burj Mobile on Airalo):

• 1 GB (valid for 7 days): $4.50
• 2 GB (valid for 15 days): $7.00
• 3 GB (valid for 30 days): $9.50
• 5 GB (valid for 30 days): $13.00
• 10 GB (valid for 30 days): $21.00
• 20 GB (valid for 30 days): $35.00

Buy your tourist eSIM card for the UAE here

Portable Wi-Fi in Dubai: a convenient alternative to tourist SIM cards

If you prefer not to use a local SIM card, you can also rent a portable Wi-Fi device in Dubai. A portable 4G Wi-Fi pocket device allows you to connect multiple gadgets to the internet and is a convenient alternative to a tourist SIM card.

You can rent a portable Wi-Fi device from Kit My Trip for 4 or 10 days and conveniently pick it up at their kiosk in the arrival hall of Dubai International Airport (Terminals 1 and 3). Different data plans are available, including 2 GB, 4 GB, 8 GB, 20 GB and Unlimited.

On the other hand, this option has several disadvantages. For instance, you must regularly charge the device and carry it with you. Also, you will be asked for a refundable rental deposit during a pick-up, which might be inconvenient for some people.

Rent a portable 4G Wi-Fi device with Dubai Airport pick-up

In conclusion, having a local SIM card in Dubai is essential to stay connected and save money on mobile services. Virgin Mobile, Du and Etisalat offer a range of tourist SIM cards that cater to different needs and budgets. Whether you choose a physical SIM card or a tourist eSIM, make sure to activate it as soon as possible to start enjoying the benefits of being connected in Dubai.

Prepare for your Dubai trip

Dubai trip essentials.

All essentials for a hassle-free journey to Dubai. Book here to save money.

Attractions

Car rentals.

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How to get a Mobile SIM Card for tourists in Dubai

Dubai is one of the world's most popular tourist destinations. Known for its extravagant shopping, luxurious hotels, prevalent nightlife, magnificent architecture, and breath-taking views. The Dubai airport is one of the busiest in the world with flights from all over the world landing every other second. Besides having everything bigger and better, Dubai is also known for its cultural and culinary diversity, it has a rich heritage and culture of its own. Today, Dubai has become a household name and is the first option for every holiday trip ever.

While visiting a new city is exciting, it's also crucial to have access to internet while away from home. Whether you want to hail a cab from the street, share photos with friends back home, or navigate the city with maps. While most hotels, public spaces, shopping centers, and tourist attractions offer free Wi-Fi, some of them require you to sign up with a local number to access the network for free for 60 minutes. Instead, getting your own SIM card will allow you to have constant, unrestricted access to the internet. Getting a local SIM card is a smart idea if you're visiting Dubai. When compared to using a SIM card from your home country, this will give you access to calls, texts, and data at significantly lower prices.

Here's everything you need to know about getting a SIM card in Dubai.

Why should you buy a SIM card in Dubai?

1. You’ll be able to save a lot of money: Using a local SIM will give you access to much cheaper rates for calls, texts, and data than you would get with your home country’s SIM as international roaming rates can be very high, so you'll save a lot of money by using a local SIM.

2. Get Unlimited internet access: Because of how advanced Dubai is, having access to the internet at all times will significantly improve your trip. You can make local calls, send texts, and use data at any time and from any location. This can come in handy if you need to call a restaurant to reserve a table or get directions using the maps to get to your destination.

3. It is more convenient: You'll have a local phone number with a Dubai SIM card that people can call you at. This is far more convenient than attempting to coordinate calls or texts using an international number.

4. You'll get better data coverage: If you only use the SIM card from your home country to access the internet, you might only get patchy coverage or incredibly slow speeds. You'll have much better data coverage with a local SIM.

Requirements for Getting a SIM Card in Dubai

• You will need your Passport and a copy of your tourist visa to get a SIM card
• Tourists must be 18 years and above to register for a SIM Card in Dubai
• UAE does not allow more than one SIM card per passport, so if you already have a SIM card registered to your passport you won’t be able to get another one.

Where to buy SIM Cards in Dubai?

Tourists can purchase SIM cards from kiosks in the majority of Dubai's airports. There are primarily two locations at Dubai International Airport where you can buy a SIM card. The first can be found at one of the numerous kiosks spread out throughout the airport. The second choice is to buy a SIM card from one of the major telecommunications companies with a storefront at the airport. You can also get a SIM card in the city at major shopping malls such as The Dubai Mall and The Mall of the Emirates.

Telecom Providers

There are various options available if you want to buy your SIM card from a telecom operator in the city. Etisalat and du are the two most well-known carriers, but the city also has a number of other smaller providers. When selecting a carrier, it's crucial to evaluate the various costs and services that each one provides. After deciding on a provider, you can buy a SIM card from one of their retail outlets. Finding one shouldn't be difficult as most telecommunications companies have numerous retail stores across Dubai.

Mobile Carriers in Dubai

The three primary SIM card providers in Dubai are Etisalat, du, and Virgin Mobile. For calls, texts, and internet bundles, all three carriers provide post-paid and prepaid plans. These network providers can be found throughout Dubai, including at various stores and shops at the Dubai Airport.

How to apply for an Etisalat SIM in Dubai

Etisalat is one of the largest mobile carriers in the UAE. It has a Visitor Line, which is a prepaid package for tourists and new residents. This provider provides quick connectivity as well as a variety of services such as:

• Data with Wi-Fi pack geared towards business-related visits
• Voice and SMS pack suitable for family or leisure visitors
• A combination of data, voice, and SMS for business travelers as well as tourists

Etisalat’s Visitor Line offers other discounts and benefits, such as discounts on Careem taxis. Moreover, with various bundles, travelers can avoid costly roaming expenses. With Visitor Line Premium, Visitor Line Premium Plus, and Visitor Line Unlimited Local Data subscriptions, you can make the most of internet calls made via the GoChat Messenger app. You can get your Etisalat SIM card from the airport's kiosks or from an Etisalat store in the city. If you don't want to go to an Etisalat store or business center, you can book your Etisalat SIM card online through their website.

Visitor Line Package Details

The packages start from AED 49 onwards here are the complete package details for Visitor Line:

Through the Etisalat mobile app, you may get AED 100 Careem credits and "buy one get one free" deals on all packages. Visitor Line Premium and Visitor Line Premium+ packages provide 500 MB of GoChat data, but Visitor Line Infinite includes an unlimited amount of GoChat data.

How to apply for a du SIM card in Dubai

In Dubai, du provides free tourist SIM cards, which are given by Dubai Immigration Officers at Passport Control. This SIM will include a Welcome Bonus of 1GB of local data valid for 24 hours. You can also pre-order your SIM card from the official du website to save time and receive additional incentives. Plus, download the ALSAADA app to receive incredible discounts on dining, retail, and other famous activities in Dubai. The QR code for the ALSAADA app is located on the back of your free tourist SIM card.

Here's how you can activate your free Tourist SIM:

The SIM given to you will already be active and has your name and passport details. To start the line, you will need to do the following steps:

• Insert the SIM into your phone on the airport itself
• You will then receive a verification SMS from 1220 requesting you to reply with your year of birth (For example if your date of birth is 29-June-2000, then you will send an SMS to 1220 with 2000)
• Once the verification is successful, you can start enjoying the free 1GB local data for 24 hours
• You will receive the activation SMS with your mobile number.

If you’ve used up your free data, you can recharge your card by visiting their website or through any of the stores and business centers spread across the emirate. And if you are visiting only for a day then you can keep the SIM as a souvenir of your trip to Dubai.

Du Tourist SIM Package Details

The packages start from AED 49 onwards here are the complete package details:

How to apply for a Virgin Mobile SIM card in Dubai

Virgin Mobile is another well-known mobile carrier in the UAE, with special deals for both visitors and locals. Those planning a trip to Dubai can get a Virgin Mobile Tourist SIM card, which includes local and international minutes and data. Residents in Dubai can choose the Virgin Mobile SIM card for prepaid phone plans. This telecom company provides monthly, semi-annual, and annual mobile plans.

These are the Virgin Mobile Tourist SIM Package details:

With the 15 days plan, you also get free internet calling on BOTIM and free UAE tourist attraction vouchers. Virgin Mobile SIM cards can be bought from their kiosk on the airport, from their website or from any Virgin Megastore across the emirate. Boost your plan for AED 100 and they will boost your data to unlimited gbs.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is the best way to purchase SIM Card in Dubai?

The best option to get a SIM card in Dubai is via one of the city's major telecom companies. Etisalat and du are the two most popular carriers, however the city also has a number of smaller providers. In Dubai, you can also purchase a SIM card online.

What is the process to activate my SIM Card?

The process for activating your SIM card will differ depending on the carrier from which you purchased it. However, most service providers use a similar activation procedure. You must enter your SIM card into your phone to activate it. After inserting it, you must enter a code issued by the provider. After you've entered the code, your SIM card will be activated and ready for use.

What is the validity of a tourist SIM Card in Dubai?

The validity duration of visitor SIM cards varies. For example, du cards are valid for 90 days, Etisalat offers 28-day or 10-day plans, while Virgin Mobile offers plans for seven, ten, or fifteen days. All phone plans are readily renewable and available in voice and data bundles, pay-as-you-go plans, or prepaid recharge cards.

What should I do if my SIM Card gets lost or stolen?

If your Dubai SIM card is lost or stolen, you should notify your service provider immediately once. They will be able to cancel your SIM card and replace it.

Written by HiDubai Newswire

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Alike.io accepts bookings for UAE SIM cards on behalf of KMTH Trading LLC (a TDRA approved SIM distributor). All SIM activations are done in the UAE by KMTH Trading LLC.

What discounts are included?

Every SIM comes with discounts on top attractions, dining and travel essentials. 

How can I get attraction discounts with my SIM?

Pre-book SIM

Buy any SIM & unlock discounts on tours, & attractions for Free. (SIM collection at our airport shops)

Select Attractions

Select and buy tours, theme parks, attraction tickets and more as soon you complete a pre-booking.

Receive Tickets

All discounted tickets that you purchased will be emailed to you.

Pre-book to get all the benefits!

Pre-book the Tourist SIM for your Dubai trip. Enjoy huge discounts on food, tours and top attractions. kitmytrip is an Authorised partner of Emirates Integrated Telecommications PJSC (EITC), better known as du in Dubai, UAE since 2016.

Hear from those who've experienced our offerings

I was very happy with the service. I always had great Wi-Fi available around Dubai. I had a problem returning the device and the customer care supported me via whatsapp in an efficient and polite way. Super recommended!

I took advantage of Alike.io's JCB offer and it was great! For just $1, I got a SIM card with 4gb data using JCB touristor, which made my trip to Dubai much more enjoyable as all the tickets were almost half the price after touristor discount. I highly recommend Alike.io to anyone visiting Dubai. Thanks, Alike.io and JCB!

The SIM Card was installed at the airport (even during the night) and we could start using Internet after 15 minutes. In addition: We enjoyed the metro ticket very much - very handy. Moreover, the Zomato App was fabulous! Being upgraded to Pro-status safes you a lot of money (especially while travelling with a family)

Thank you so much for your amazing service. I just walked in and my sim card is now working in less than 5 minutes.

I was in Dubai for a conference and was looking for one stop shopping to make my trip as easy as possible. I found Alike-Dubai Touristor, who offered me all the amenities that I needed. They even helped me get a SIM card that allowed me to stay connected to my clients back home. It's such a relief knowing I can check things off their list and have more time to enjoy myself!

The SIM Card was installed at the airport (even during the night) and we could start using Internet after 15 minutes. In addition: We enjoyed the metro ticket very much - very handy. Moreover, the Zomato App was fabulous! Being upgraded to Pro-status safes you a lot of money (especially while travelling with a family).

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Happy customers make us happy! Our customers rate our services highly.

Traveling soon? We've got answers to your FAQs.

Where can I collect the SIM from?

Upon adding the SIM to your cart, you'll have the chance to choose your preferred collection point. Currently, we offer collection points at Dubai Airport T1 and Dubai Airport T3 ( map ). If you're arriving at a different airport, such as Sharjah or Abu Dhabi, feel free to explore some other  SIM options  available or simply drop us a  message  – we're here to assist you!

How can I avail the mentioned attraction discounts with my SIM?

As soon as you successfully pre-book your SIM, your exclusive discounts will be ready for use. Whether you wish to immediately book your attractions or decide to do so later, the same discounts link will be sent to your email for easy access. Should you require additional tickets or have any queries, our dedicated customer service team is at your disposal.  Reach out  to them anytime with your order details, and they'll be delighted to assist you.

Can you help with group bookings?

Yes, we cater to both, individuals and groups. Our travel advisors can help you with any inquiries related to group bookings.  Get in touch.

How many SIMs can I pre-book?

Although you can pre-book multiple SIMs, only one SIM will be activated for each Passport.

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Best eSIM for Traveling to Dubai in 2024

Are you planning a trip to Dubai and looking for the best tourist eSIM for the UAE to stay connected? This is a complete guide with everything you need to know about using an eSIM for traveling to Dubai including a comparison of the best Dubai eSIMs for 2024.

Don't waste money on high roaming charges, read my recommendations below and order an eSIM for the UAE on the internet and get connected in just a couple minutes. Below you will find up to date prices as per September 2024 and all specifications per eSIM.

This guide will explain how eSIMs work, show you where and when to order an eSIM for Dubai, info about the network coverage and 4G/5G data speed, give an answer to FAQ about using eSIMs, a comparison with local prepaid sim cards for Dubai and of course links to directly order your eSIM for Dubai online.

Already since 2012 I am traveling the world full time and eventually turned my passion for traveling into a lifestyle and became a full time nomadic travel blogger . That is why I constantly get to a different country and pretty much every week I need to look for a new sim card to stay connected. 

In 2022 I visited 62 different countries and in 2023 I traveled to 34 countries so imagine how many different prepaid and eSIMs I used the last two years.

In the past I used to buy a local prepaid sim card on arrival in every country, but nowadays I mostly use eSIMs to stay connected when traveling to the UAE.

Traveltomtom also wrote a complete guide for buying a prepaid sim card in Dubai including all info about Dubai tourist sim cards at the airport on arrival.

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On Traveltomtom you can find more specific and in-depth eSIM guides for: USA , Canada , Asia , China , Thailand , Indonesia , Hong Kong , Malaysia , Egypt , Turkey ,  Europe , Italy , France , Spain , Germany , Greece , international eSIMs and many more.

So next time you are planning your adventure abroad come check out Traveltomtom for the latest prepaid sim card and eSIM advice for your holiday destination. Bookmark me and let me help you save money!

Some links in this article about the best eSIMs for Dubai are affiliate links. If you buy any product after clicking on an affiliate link I will earn a small commission. Don't worry this is at absolutely no extra cost to you!

My recommendation

Traveltomtom recommends the following eSIM for traveling to Dubai in 2024: 

1. Airalo eSIM for $21 USD

• 10 GB data-only eSIM
• Valid in UAE only
• Mandatory registration
• Valid for 30 days
• Only $2.10 USD per Gigabyte

The best value tourist eSIMs for Dubai are the Airalo eSIMs for the UAE. Airalo has more eSIM plans and they go down as much as $1.75 USD per Gigabyte on their 20 GB data plan for $35 USD.

This eSIMs are data-only and incoming and outgoing calls or sms are not supported. 

Is Dubai one of your stops on a trip to Asia then you can also look into getting an eSIM for traveling in Asia . There are more eSIMs that cover multiple countries.

There are 2 very important things to check before ordering an eSIM for Dubai or in general before using an eSIM.

Unlocked phones only

Make sure your phone is unlocked. eSIMs only work in unlocked phones. If you are not sure if your phone is unlocked then contact your mobile internet provider in your home country.

In general phones from Europe, Asia and the Middle East tend to be unlocked. Phones from North America are often locked.

If your smartphone is locked that means it does not allow another prepaid sim card or eSIM to operate in the device. You can easily unlock your phone, but depending on your mobile internet provider you will be charged a fee for unlocking your phone. 

eSIM compatible phones only

Second, and equally important: eSIMs only work if your smartphone supports eSIMs, also called eSIM compatible. All newer smartphones support eSIMs. If you are not sure if your phone is eSIM compatible then simply go to Google and type in your mobile phone model in the search bar and ask if it is eSIM compatible. You will get the answer instantly.

If your phone is NOT eSIM compatible then there is no other solution and you can NOT use an eSIM for traveling to Dubai.

However, you can still order a sim card for Dubai on the internet before your trip. Check out Traveltomtom’s complete guide for buying a prepaid sim card for Dubai in 2024  or find out everything you need to know about international sim cards for traveling abroad in 2024 .

Comparison of the best eSIMs for Dubai

Buying an eSIM on arrival in Dubai is now also possible, but only from Virgin Mobile, an MVNO. As per September 2024 the main mobile internet operators Du and Etisalat still only provide physical prepaid sim cards for tourists.

But luckily there are multiple eSIM providers on the internet that sell eSIMs for Dubai and actually even give you much more value for money. 

Traveltomtom recommends ordering an eSIM for traveling to Dubai from one of the well-known eSIM providers that have proven to be reliable operators. 

These are the reputed eSIM providers tested and reviewed multiple times by Traveltomtom:  SimOptions , Sim Local , Holafly, Airalo, Nomad, Jetpac, Roamless , etc.

Nowadays, you can buy an eSIM for pretty much every country in the world. Order directly from one of the above eSIM providers and instantly receive your eSIM in your email. But before you buy an eSIM first read all my tips below. 

SimOptions is the only eSIM provider that also offers international prepaid sim cards for Dubai . These are pre-activated physical prepaid sim cards and will be delivered to your home address before your trip to Dubai and it is plug and play when you arrive in the Dubai. 

Airalo, Holafly, Sim Local, Jetpac, Roamless and Nomad only sell eSIMs for Dubai. 

Airalo is a very reputable eSIM provider that is very much recommended by Traveltomtom. Ordering your eSIM for Dubai through Airalo is done fast and easy. Traveltomtom has used Airalo uncountable times for staying connected when traveling abroad. Very reliable, never an issue and often some of the cheapest eSIM deals. 

Airalo is in general in many countries one of my top recommendations and also for traveling to Dubai in 2024 Traveltomtom rates Airalo as the best eSIM.

Here are Dubai eSIM plans from Airalo for 2024:

• 1 GB data for 7 days = $4.5 USD
• 2 GB data for 15 days = $7 USD
• 3 GB data for 30 days = $9.5 USD
• 5 GB data for 30 days = $13 USD
• 10 GB data for 30 days = $21 USD
• 20 GB data for 30 days = $35 USD

Click here to order an eSIM for Dubai from Airalo .

The only downside from an Airalo eSIM for the UAE is that they require an ID verification. This means that as soon as you buy an Airalo eSIM for the UAE they will ask you to scan your passport or ID for verification before they release your eSIM details.

Traveltomtom has tested it and it works very fast, within less than 1 minute I got a confirmation email and I was all set.

The Airalo eSIMs for Dubai are from Burj Mobile and operate on the 4G/LTE network of Etisalat according to the Airalo website. However in reality these Burj Mobile are 5G ready as I was constantly connected to 5G when testing the Airalo eSIM in Dubai.

In pretty much all the amazing places to visit in Dubai and everywhere else in the UAE you will find an excellent 5G signal and the data speed is very good. 

For more info about the best 4G/5G network in Dubai check my complete guide for the best prepaid sim card for tourists in Dubai in 2024 , including network coverage maps of all the mobile internet providers.

All the Airalo eSIMs are data-only sim cards without a phone number, so any phone/sms service is NOT supported. An Airalo eSIM has to be installed within 1 month and after activation the credit validity starts when it connects the first time to a supported network. For more info check out the Airalo website . 

SimOptions is a very reliable eSIM provider. Why using SimOptions? Traveltomtom has used SimOptions uncountable times in more than 50 countries around the world and never faced a major issue. I can totally recommend using SimOptions for ordering an eSIM for traveling abroad.

SimOptions has similar eSIM plans than Airalo, but Airalo is slightly cheaper for UAE eSIMs.

Here are the SimOptions data-only eSIM plans for Dubai for 2024: 

• 1 GB data for 7 days = $4.50 USD
• 3 GB data for 15 days = $9.90 USD
• 5 GB data for 15 days = $13.90 USD
• 10 GB data for 30 days = $24.90 USD
• 20 GB data for 30 days = $49.90 USD
• 30 GB data for 30 days = $75.90 USD

Click here to order a SimOptions eSIM for Dubai .

The SimOptions eSIMs for the UAE are from their own brand. Unfortunately SimOptions doesn't specify which mobile network operator they use  in Dubai but great thing about the SimOptions UAE eSIMs is that they are all 5G ready.

All the eSIMs for Dubai  that you can order via SimOptions do NOT come with a phone number and they do not offer incoming/outgoing calls or sms services. The validity of these eSIMs is 1 year and the credit validity starts instantly after installing the eSIM, even if you are not in Dubai. For more info check the SimOptions website .

Nomad also has amazing Dubai eSIM plans for tourists. On one of my last trips to Dubai I tested a Nomad eSIM and was surprised that they were even 5G ready. Nomad has definitely one of the better eSIM deals for Dubai.

Airalo is $1 USD cheaper for the same plan than Nomad and in general Traveltomtom prefers Airalo over Nomad.

Here are the Nomad eSIM plans for Dubai: 

• 1 GB data for 7 days = $8 USD
• 3 GB data for 30 days = $11 USD
• 10 GB data for 30 days = $22 USD 

Click here to order an eSIM for Dubai from Nomad .

The Nomad eSIMs for Dubai are from eSIM Go. These data-only eSIMs from eSIM Go are 5G ready in the UAE and they use the mobile data network of Du. Incoming and outgoing calls and sms are NOT supported.

As I mentioned, Nomad has one of the best value eSIMs for Dubai and they go as low as $2.2 USD per Gigabyte. Which is even much better compared to local prepaid sim cards for Dubai, because you will pay around $4 USD per Gigabyte.

Another reason why Traveltomtom recommends ordering an eSIM over buying a sim card in Dubai on arrival.

Traveltomtom tested the Nomad eSIM on my very recent trip to Dubai and it did not disappoint. Here is the outcome of a data speed test.

It clearly shows that the Nomad eSIM for Dubai is working on 5G with fast download speed. The upload speed could have been a bit faster, but this is just a moment in time. In general I was very satisfied with the Nomad eSIM traveling in the UAE.

The Nomad Dubai eSIMs have to be installed on your phone within 30 days and after installation its validity starts when it connects for the first time to a supported network in Dubai. Basically when the plane lands. For more info check the Nomad website .

Holafly is another well-known eSIM provider but unlike other providers they work with eSIMs with unlimited data. However, there is a catch and that is a so-called FUP (Fair Use Policy). More about it later, but it could mean that you suddenly have a very slow data connection for a whole day until it resets.

Here are the Holafly eSIM plans for the UAE with unlimited data per day:

• 1 day 'unlimited' data = $6 USD
• 2 days 'unlimited' data = $10 USD
• 3 days 'unlimited' data = $13 USD
• 4 days 'unlimited' data = $16 USD
• 5 days 'unlimited' data = $21 USD
• 6 days 'unlimited' data = $25 USD
• 7 days 'unlimited' data = $29 USD
• 8 days 'unlimited' data = $31 USD
• 9 days 'unlimited' data = $35 USD
• 10 days 'unlimited' data = $37 USD
• 11 days 'unlimited' data = $40 USD
• 14 days 'unlimited' data = $48 USD
• 20 days 'unlimited' data = $64 USD
• 30 days 'unlimited' data = $75 USD 

The Holafly eSIMs for United Arab Emirates are data-only and incoming and outgoing calls/sms are NOT supported. These eSIMs do also not come with a phone number. The Holafly eSIMs operate on the 4G/LTE network of Etisalat

You can use a hotspot on the Holafly eSIMs for the UAE, but it is capped at 500 MB per day.

Why 'unlimited'? Because there is a Fair Use Policy and Traveltomtom has had bad experiences with this in the past. Suddenly your data speed is slowed down for 24 hours because you apparently used too much data. More info later.

If I hate something then it is slow data speed. Therefore Traveltomtom's is not a fan of eSIMs with 'unlimited' data and therefore it is not my first recommendation when looking for an eSIM for Dubai.

Also, Traveltomtom tested Holafly in another country and was very disappointed with the overall performance. Holafly was using the weakest mobile data network in that country and people all around me constantly had connection but I was pretty much offline for a whole week. Even though we were in big cities, I constantly had to ask for the public WiFi of my hotels, restaurants and bars because my Holafly eSIM was super slow.

Traveltomtom is a fan of Jetpac eSIMs because of its competitive prices for eSIM plans and excellent service. The Traveltomtom Team has tested Jetpac eSIMs in numerous countries and always with positive feedback.

Jetpac has for example excellent eSIMs for Asia/Pacific, but the Jetpac eSIMs for the United Arab Emirates are not worth considering.

Check out the Jetpac eSIM plans for UAE in 2024:

• 1 GB data for 4 days = $1 USD
• 3 GB data for 7 days = $11 USD
• 5 GB data for 30 days = $30 USD

Click here to order a Jetpac eSIM for the United Arab Emirates .

The Jetpac eSIM with 1 GB data for $1 USD makes Jetpac actually the cheapest eSIM for the UAE. However, it is only valid for 4 days. Their 3 GB data plan has a rate of $3.67 USD per Gigabyte. Pretty high! The 5 GB data plan rate per Gigabyte is even higher.

Traveltomtom highly recommends Jetpac eSIMs for Europe, USA and Asia, but not for the UAE. Simply too expensive. 

You can instal your Jetpac eSIM before your trip to UAE, but it only activates from the moment it connects to a supported network in UAE. That moment your days also start counting. The Jetpac eSIMs have to be installed within 1 year.

The Jetpac UAE eSIMs are data-only and incoming and outgoing calls are not supported. Data is valid in UAE only and the Jetpac eSIMs operate on the 4G/LTE/5G network of DU.

An extra advantage of Jetpac UAE eSIMs is that they provide a free VPN subscription as well as free lounge access if your flight is delayed. However, you will have to register your flight before you travel and in case of a delayed or canceled flight a LoungeKey voucher will automatically be provided. This is a complimentary service that no other eSIM provider offers. For more info check the Jetpac website .

Virgin Mobile

On arrival at Dubai International Airport (DXB) you can now also get an eSIM from Virgin Mobile as per new update in 2024. These local prepaid sim card plans are available as eSIMs as well as physical prepaid sim cards, but you can only buy them on arrival in Dubai, not on the internet.

Here are the prices for their eSIM plans for 2024 valid for 1 month:

• 14 GB data + 100 minutes + 50 international minutes = 239.4 AED - $65 USD
• 20 GB data + 200 minutes + 50 international minutes = 299.25 AED - $82 USD
• 28 GB data + 50 minutes + 50 international minutes = 357 AED - $97 USD
• 40 GB data + 200 minutes + 200 international minutes = 496.65 AED - $135 USD

Virgin Mobile UAE also has tourist sim cards with unlimited data.

• Unlimited data + 30 minutes + 20 international minutes for 7 days = 300 AED - $82 USD
• Unlimited data + 30 minutes + 20 international minutes for 30 days = 500 AED - $136 USD

As you can see these prices for local eSIMs at Dubai Airport are through the roof and therefore Traveltomtom once more recommends ordering an eSIM for the UAE on the internet and does NOT recommend buying an eSIM on arrival at Dubai International Airport.

Why did Traveltomtom already used more than 100s of eSIMs? I told you before that I travel full time and I am on the road constantly. Pretty much every week I need another sim card to stay connected, on average I use about 40 to 50 prepaid and eSIMs per year.

In fact Traveltomtom is based in Dubai, well, the company, not myself! Therefore I visit Dubai about 3-4 times per year. My last trip to Dubai was in November 2023.

What is the cheapest eSIM for Dubai?

Truly the cheapest eSIM for the UAE is from  Jetpac  for just $1 USD. It will give you 1 GB data for 4 days.

Another cheap eSIM for Dubai is an  Airalo  eSIM for just $4.5 USD. It gives you 1 GB data for 7 days. This eSIM is only valid in the UAE and does not support calling and texting.

Why ordering an eSIM for traveling in Dubai

eSIMs are the easiest way to stay connected when traveling to Dubai in 2024 and you can arrange everything online in just a couple clicks. No more visiting a sim card shop and swapping physical sim cards. Order online, scan the QR code, follow the steps and you are connected in less than 2 minutes.

The most important reason to get an eSIM is because we would like to stay connected on our trip to Dubai without wasting money on high roaming costs. Our smartphones are pretty useless without a working data connection. Think about ordering a taxi through an app, finding nearby friends, restaurants and bars. Get directions from Google Maps or simply staying in touch with family back home, check your social media apps on long bus rides or your banking apps when paying contactless.

One of the best things about arriving in Dubai with an activated eSIM is that you are online as soon as the plane lands. More about when to instal your eSIM later.

There are so many reasons to stay connected when traveling to Dubai, but the most important reason is that it makes your trip to Dubai so much more convenient and fun!

At the same time we don’t want to waste money on high roaming charges. Many mobile internet operators still charge $3 USD per MB for data roaming, that means just opening the Instagram app will already cost you 20 MB * $3 USD = $60 USD! Not kidding… it still is very common in 2024. 

eSIMs are the easiest way to avoid high roaming charges!

Overseas data roaming plans

So what about overseas data roaming plans? Well, not recommended! Why? Did you read the small letters at what data speed you can use data roaming? Pretty much all mobile internet operators limit the data speed for overseas data roaming plans, which means you end up with 3G data speed. Do you have the patience to handle 3G? It is frustrating when all around you at pretty  much every amazing tourist destinations in Dubai there is already 5G available. 

Uncountable times (mostly American) travel friends have asked me: “can I use your hotspot? My data roaming plan is so slow, it is barely working!” Trust me, get yourself an eSIM or an international prepaid sim card for traveling to Dubai. Spend a couple dollars extra and be connected all the time instead of begging for WiFi or a hotspot from friends.

Where to buy an eSIM for Dubai?

You can only buy an eSIM for Dubai on the internet through an eSIM provider. There are multiple eSIM providers for Dubai. Traveltomtom compared 6 eSIM providers and concluded that the above mentioned ones ( SimOptions , Holafly,  Airalo and Nomad ) are the best eSIM providers for traveling to Dubai in 2024.

When buying an eSIM for Dubai through one of the above recommended eSIM providers you only need your email address and the eSIM is instantly ready to use after installation. Only the Airalo eSIMs now require an ID check, Nomad and SimOptions do not require an ID verification.

On arrival in Dubai

There are 2 main mobile internet provider in Dubai: Du and Etisalat. On top of these operators there is also Virgin Mobile, a so-called MVNO.

As per August 2024 Du and Etisalat still do not provide eSIMs for tourists, only physical prepaid sim cards. However, as seen in my comparison above Virgin Mobile does now offer eSIMs for tourists. But as you have seen, at ridiculous prices compared to the Airalo or Nomad eSIMs for UAE.

For more info about buying a prepaid sim card for tourists in Dubai in 2024  click on the link to read my complete guide and comparison of all the mobile internet providers in Dubai, including a comparison of the 4G/5G network.

Flying into the UAE and landing in either Abu Dhabi or Dubai international airport then you can buy a tourist sim card for Dubai on arrival at the airport. Only physical prepaid sim cards for tourists are provided at DU and Etisalat shops and at Virgin Mobile stores you can as well get an eSIM for tourists. 

The easy thing is that tourist sim card prices are the same in every store around Dubai, no special tourist prices at the airport.

When to order/activate an eSIM for Dubai?

You can order an eSIM for Dubai pretty much any time you want. Most eSIMs have to be installed on a phone within 1 month after purchasing, some even within 1 year, so you have time.

More important therefore is when do you instal/activate the eSIM. The validity of some eSIMs start straight after the installation, other eSIMs only start their validity when they connect the first time to a supported network.

Traveltomtom advices to instal your eSIM on the day of departure to Dubai or before. When in Dubai you will need an internet connection to instal your eSIM. Pretty much every international airport in the UAE has free WiFi so you could use that to install your eSIM. Just make sure it is a stable internet connection and therefore Traveltomtom advices you to install/activate your eSIM in your home country. 

So my personal advice is to instal your eSIM for Dubai before you get into the plane and as soon as the plane lands you will already be connected without any problems.

How do I know all this? Officially Traveltomtom is based and registered in Dubai and obviously I have to travel through Dubai multiple times a year. And guess what, I always use an eSIM to stay connected, simply because it is cheaper.

For more info about my experiences buying a sim card at Dubai International Airport check out my vlog on YouTube .

Or for more detailed info about the best prepaid sim cards for Dubai , check out my complete guide in the link.

IMPORTANT NOTICE!

In October 2023 the UAE Telecom Regulator sent all online eSIM providers a "Cease and Desist" letter demanding to stop all domestic sales of eSIMs in the UAE. Therefore as of November 2023 you are unable to buy an eSIM on the internet if you are already in Dubai.

Therefore Traveltomtom recommends you to buy your eSIM for Dubai before you board your flight to the UAE.

In case you already arrived in Dubai and still want to buy an eSIM then your IP Address from the UAE will prevent you from ordering an eSIM on the internet.

There is a very easy way around this and that is by using a VPN.

How to activate an eSIM

Installing and activating an eSIM is made as simple as possible. Everyone can activate an eSIM and the instructions on how to are very detailed and will be send to you instantly by email. But wait, it gets even easier. Just scan the QR code.

When you order an eSIM plan for Dubai you instantly receive a summery of your order including a QR-code after the payment is processed. 

You will see a summary of your eSIM order including a QR code on your screen and at the same time you will also receive an email with the same QR code. The email contains instructions on how to instal and activate your Dubai eSIM.

But installing an activating an eSIM is as easy as scanning the QR code with the same phone where you want to activate the eSIM on. The QR contains all the information about your Dubai eSIM.

Once you scan the code you will be guided through a couple simple steps and within less than 1 minute your eSIM is successfully installed.

Very important is that you are connected to the internet when installing your eSIM otherwise you will get an error and issues can occur.

Tip: if you order an eSIM with the same phone where you want to instal the eSIM on then ask a friend or someone nearby to take a photo of the QR code and then you scan the QR code from his/her phone and start the installation.

Things to know before ordering an eSIM for Dubai

Here are some general tips for using eSIMs when traveling abroad. These tips do not only apply for Dubai eSIMs, but are things you have to know before buying an eSIM in general.

Make sure your phone is unlocked

To make sure you didn’t miss this, let me say this again: eSIMs only work in UNLOCKED phones. If your phone is unlocked then you can use any eSIM without any problems. 

If your phone is locked then ask your mobile internet provider from your home country to unlock your phone before your trip to Dubai. It is likely that your mobile internet provider will charge you a fee for unlocking your smartphone. 

If you are unable to unlock your phone you can look into getting a portable WiFi for staying connected when traveling to Dubai or better… bring a second unlocked phone on your trip to Dubai and use it as a portable WiFi device. 

Which smartphones support eSIMs?

Another very important thing you have to check before buying an eSIM is if your smartphone supports eSIMs. If you have any of the latest smartphones then there is no need to worry, all new smartphones of the well known brands support eSIMs. 

The fastest way to find out if your phone is eSIM compatible is by asking Google the question: is my (your phone model) eSIM compatible? Simple as that! 

Can I trust these eSIM providers?

All the eSIM providers for Dubai recommended above ( SimOptions , Airalo , Holafly and  Nomad ) are reputable eSIM providers reviewed and tested by Traveltomtom. All of them are licensed third party companies and resellers that partner or work directly with the mobile internet providers in Dubai.

Traveltomtom has successfully partnered for several consecutive years with SimOptions and Airalo. Jetpac and Nomad are fairly new eSIM providers, but have so far proven to be a reliable eSIM provider. That said Traveltomtom had some issues with Nomad eSIMs lately and wasn't 100% satisfied with their performance.

Traveltomtom barely uses Holafly as they work with Fair Use Policies per day and it might happen that your unlimited data eSIM experiences reduced data speed. Therefore not a Traveltomtom favorite.

All eSIM providers have their own Helpdesk which you can contact may you encounter any problems or in case you want to claim a refund. 

Traveltomtom does NOT sell UAE eSIMs, only recommends you to use eSIMs for traveling to the UAE and gives you an honest review.

Can I keep my phone number from home with a Dubai eSIM?

Yes, you can and this is for many people a reason to order an eSIM to stay connected when traveling to Dubai. An eSIM can be used next to your physical or eSIM from your home country at the same time. You do not need a dual-sim phone for using an eSIM. 

So you can have multiple eSIMs installed on your phone? Yes, no problem at all! 

For example: you can turn off the mobile data from your sim card from home but still use it for texting and calling. Your new Dubai eSIM you can be used at the same time just for data to ensure you are not wasting money on high roaming costs.

This is also the trick to keep receiving sms for example for OTP (one time password) sms to login to applications.

Switching between physical and eSIMs is a matter of turning them on/off in the settings. Just always make sure your sim card from home is switched off for data roaming. 

Can I make phone calls with a Dubai tourist eSIM?

No, unfortunately there are no Dubai eSIMs for tourists available on the internet that include calling and texting. All the eSIMs from Holafly,  SimOptions , Airalo  and  Nomad  are data-only eSIMs and any incoming/outgoing calls/sms are not supported.

If you want to also call with your eSIM you can try Roamless as they offer calling service through their app when buying a Roamless eSIM. 

Does a Dubai eSIM come with a phone number?

No, none of the Dubai eSIMs that you can buy on the internet come with a phone number which also means you can not receive any phone calls or sms.

In the above Dubai eSIM comparison you can find all the specifications per eSIM.

Can I use 5G on a Dubai eSIM?

Yes, the eSIM Go eSIMs from Nomad are 5G ready and I lately tested it on my trip to Dubai and I enjoyed a 5G signal pretty much everywhere and data speed was above 100 Mbps most of the time.

The same counts for the Airalo eSIMs, although the Airalo website says 4G/LTE only, I had 5G all the time on my Airalo eSIM when visiting Dubai.

The newly updated UAE eSIMs from SimOptions are also all 5G ready. Jetpac eSIMs for UAE are also 5G ready.

Are there eSIMs for Dubai with unlimited data?

Yes, the Holafly eSIMs for UAE come with unlimited data per day. But there is a catch...

eSIMs for Dubai with unlimited data are not truly unlimited! Make sure the unlimited data is on max data speed. Mostly the data speed is capped after you used X amount of Gigabytes. 

Holafly is an eSIM provider that sells eSIMs with unlimited data for the UAE, but does NOT specify what is the exact so-called Fair Use Policy (FUP).

Traveltomtom does NOT recommend Dubai eSIMs with unlimited data plans. There are always restrictions. And on Holafly sim cards I experienced a reduce in data speed after using more than 2 GB per day. After I contacted support they explained me that I had to wait for 24 hours until my data speed was restored to normal. 

Those 24 hours were a nightmare as my data speed was barely enough to use WhatsApp. Social media was not even loading! 

Again, Traveltomtom does NOT recommend eSIMs for Dubai with unlimited data. But if you think you will never use more than 2 GB per day, then this might be your favorite eSIM.

The  Airalo eSIMs for Dubai with 20 GB data for $35 USD for 30 days provide sufficient data in general for a trip to Dubai and there is no real need for an eSIM with unlimited data unless you want to upload your whole camera roll to Google Drive or iCloud via 4G/5G instead of WiFi.

There are a lot of different specifications per eSIM. Another reason why I advice you to take a close at my comparison of the best eSIMs for traveling to UAE in 2024 before choosing your favorite. 

Are eSIMs the best way to stay connected when traveling to Dubai?

eSIMs are the easiest and fastest way to get data on your phone when traveling to Dubai, but what is the best way? 

There are 3 ways to stay connected when traveling to Dubai: 

Local prepaid sim cards

International prepaid sim cards.

Let's compare eSIMs, local prepaid sim cards and international prepaid sim cards, for you to find out what is your preferred way of staying connected.

Normally if you use a lot of data local prepaid sim cards are a cheaper way to stay connected, but not in the UAE. Data is ridiculously expensive in Dubai and there is pretty much no competition. Du and Etisalat are the main mobile internet operators and they offer the exact same prices for data packages. On top of that there is Virgin Mobile as an MVNO, but they are also very expensive.

Local prepaid sim cards for tourists can only be purchased on arrival in Dubai in a phone store or at the airport and NOT on the internet.

More info about the  best Dubai sim cards for tourists can be found in my complete guide for buying a tourist sim card in Dubai in 2024. 

If your smartphone is not eSIM compatible you can order an international prepaid sim card for traveling to Dubai. Some of them are great for Dubai as well as in all other countries in for example Europe, Americas and Asia and you can easily order them online. 

A pre-activated physical sim card will be delivered to your home address before your trip. You put this physical sim card in your phone and as soon as the plane touches the ground and the sim card connects to a supported network you are online. Plug and play! 

Click here to order an international prepaid sim card for Dubai directly online .

If after visiting Dubai you are traveling onwards in Asia then check Traveltomtom's list of the best sim cards for traveling internationally in 2024  or the best Asia tourist sim cards in 2024 .

As explained throughout the article there are two different eSIMs:

• eSIMs that you buy on the internet through a third party
• eSIMs that you buy in Dubai in a mobile internet provider store

However, as of 2024 Du and Etisalat do still not provide tourist eSIMs for tourists. Only people with an Emirates ID are able to get an eSIM. Traveltomtom personally shopped around in Dubai and Abu Dhabi to find out if eSIMs were available for tourists and the answer is: NO!

However, as of August 2024 Virgin Mobile announced they now offer eSIMs for tourists as well. You can buy a Virgin Mobile eSIM for Dubai in a Virgin Mobile store or at Virgin Mobile shops at Dubai, Sharjah or Abu Dhabi Airport.

Read all about it in my detailed guide about buying a sim card at Abu Dhabi Airport or Sharjah Airport or if you are interested in watching a vlog about my arrival and buying a sim card at Abu Dhabi Airport then check out my YouTube video .

There is also a vlog about my arrival and buying a sim card at Dubai Airport on my YouTube Channel. 

eSIMs vs. local prepaid sim cards

Getting an eSIM is the easiest way to stay connected when traveling to Dubai, no doubt! You arrange everything online within just a couple clicks. Right here, right now and you are all set for your trip to Dubai. You arrive prepared and there is no need to visit a sim card shop on arrival in Dubai. As soon as the plane lands, you are online.

But what is cheaper? An eSIM or a local prepaid sim card for tourists?

When we compare the best Dubai eSIMs for tourists with local prepaid sim cards for Dubai, it is an easy conclusion that the Nomad eSIMs are even cheaper than local prepaid sim cards. 

The Burj Mobile eSIMs from Airalo go down as much as $1.75 USD per Gigabyte. The physical prepaid sim card plans for tourists from Du and Etisalat will charge you more than $4 USD per Gigabyte. The Virgin Mobile eSIMs are not much better either.

Dubai has so called tourist sim cards specially designed for non-residents. Prices for prepaid sim cards start from 49 AED which is around $13 USD, but you only get 2 GB data. If you want a prepaid sim card with 8 GB data that will cost you around $34 USD.

For more info check out my article about the best prepaid sim cards for tourists in Dubai in 2024 . 

After a long flight you just want to go to your hotel and it is often a big task to go to a sim card store and get connected. With eSIMs you buy on the internet you are connected as soon as the plane lands. For this convenience Traveltomtom definitely recommends to order one of the listed best eSIMs for Dubai in the comparison above.

Many reasons why a lot of travelers simply get an eSIM for Dubai. Faster, easier, less stress and even cheaper depending on how much data you need.

Another difference between a local prepaid sim card and an eSIM is that eSIMs are often through a third party, a so called MVNO (Mobile Virtual Network Operator). These MVNO’s operate on the network of one of the main mobile internet operators and basically buy bandwidth.

This may sound a little bit too technical, but what it means is that eSIMs through an MVNO are the last ones in line when the line is busy. Especially during peak times, the performance of an eSIMs is less compared to a local prepaid sim card from a mobile internet operator.

Bottomline: the data speed of eSIMs can be less compared to a local prepaid Dubai sim card.

I am sure some of the above tips for finding the best eSIM for your trip to Dubai were helpful. I hope that after reading through my comparison, tips and tricks it was easier to make a decision and order your eSIM for Dubai right away. 

If you still have any questions about eSIMs then please leave me a comment below. I promise I will try to reply instantly and I am more than happy to help you out finding the best way for you to stay connected.

Curious what the life of a full time nomadic traveler looks like? Go check out my 650K Instagram account or 1.3 Million TikTok account both called @traveltomtom. Follow along with daily updates from around the world about the good, the bad and the ugly about traveling.

Traveltomtom is on the road to 197, meaning I would like to travel to every country in the world . As of August 2024 I have visited more than 155 countries, still about 40 to go, but no rush.

Enjoy your trip to Dubai!

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Best Dubai SIM Card for Tourists (2023) – Plans and Offers

Are you travelling to the UAE? If yes, this blog post can help you get a free tourist SIM card in Dubai. There are currently two largest telecom networks in the UAE, of which one is Etisalat, the second is DU, and the third is Virgin, which is a virtual network. Both networks have budget-friendly plans for visitors and residents. If you go to the UAE for 30 days, 15 days, or any other period, you must compare SIM card prices and plans.

Both companies provide free SIM cards at the airport in Dubai, UAE . There are some limitations to free SIM cards that you should know about. If your flight arrives at any other airport, like Sharjah, excluding Dubai, then you will lose the free SIM card offer.

How to Get a FREE SIM card in UAE Dubai Etisalat or DU

People travelling to the UAE find it difficult to decide which SIM card is best for them. Because they have to call at the airport and inquire about their family’s well-being, they need a SIM with a limit on calls. Etisalat’s Unlimited international calling plans can help you connect with your friends and family cheaply.

DU FREE SIM Card Offer UAE

DU offers Free SIM cards at the Dubai Airport and on its official website. Travellers can easily book DU SIM cards online by visiting the DU tourist page. With the Free DU Tourist SIM, users will get 1 GB of Free internet data that can be used for 28 days.

DU SIM CARD PREPAID PACKAGES

Customers will get 2GB of data and 30 Flexi minutes with the Du Tourist SIM. Customers must pay 49 AED for this plan because the SIM card is FREE.

DU Tourist SIM 6GB Data Offer

If customers want more internet, they have to choose one of the other plans. In the second plan, Users will get 6GB of data, 30 free Flexi minutes, and free internet calling for 99 AED, including 5% VAT, for 28 days.

Facebook and WhatsApp are banned in the UAE, so you cannot use them. In the UAE, Botim and C’me apps are mostly used. DU offers free, unlimited voice and video calls on Botim and C’me.

DU Tourist SIM 10GB Data Offer

Customers can get the 10GB data offer on a DU tourist SIM card for more data. Because SIM cards are free, you have to pay only plan charges. With the DU 10GB data offer, travellers will get 10GB of data, 30 Flexi Minutes, and unlimited free internet calling. The cost of the 10GB plan is AED 139.

20GB Data Offer

The DU Tourist SIM 20GB data plan price is AED 189, including VAT. With this plan, users will receive 20GB of data, 30 Flexi minutes for voice calls, and free unlimited internet calling on Botim and the C’me app. This plan is valid for 28 days, and users can reactivate the same plan after recharging AED 189.

DU Unlimited Internet Plan on Tourist SIM

People who download a lot need an unlimited internet plan. The unlimited data plan on the DU SIM is priced at 299 AED. The validity of this plan is only ten days, after which users will have to reactivate a plan to use the internet. There are no Flexi minutes for calling, but you will get unlimited free internet calling for ten days. Customers do not need to activate the Du social package to call.

If you have come to stay in Dubai for a few days, you should choose a 6 GB data plan. There are no free calls in the tour plan for calling abroad, but there are free calling plans. It allows you to stay in touch with your loved ones all the time through the Botim or C’me apps.

Etisalat UAE Tourist SIM Card Plans and Prices

Etisalat is used in many countries around the world. This network is widely used in Dubai. People from abroad prefer Etisalat Dubai, UAE, as it offers various packages.

Etisalat’s Tourist Plan offers free calls, messages, and Dubai Wi-Fi. When customers buy a new Etisalat SIM, they get free internet calling , allowing them to stay in touch with their loved ones through Botim and other supported apps. Etisalat UAE internet packages are available at all prices. The user can create and activate packages for 1 day, 5 days, 7 days, months, and all kinds of durations. The Visitor Line has plans ranging from 60 AED to 400 AED.

The lowest prepaid tourist visitor line price is 49 AED, for which users will get 2GB local data, 30 Flexi minutes, Smiles buy 1 and get 1 free, and 100 AED free Careem credits for 28 days. Other offers provide 4GB of data and 30 Flexi minutes for 79 AED.

Etisalat UAE offers a Visitor Line Premium+ offer if you want more data. This offer provides 22.5 GB of data, 525 Flexi minutes, 30 hours of Free WIFI, and unlimited free Go Chat data for 200 AED, incl. VAT at 5%. This plan is valid for 28 days.

Customers can manage their account plans and recharge by dialling *121#. Etisalat UAE prepaid users can make calls in 179 countries at AED 2.52/minute and send messages at AED 0.63/SMS, whose local rate is AED 0.19/SMS.

Virgin Tourist SIM UAE

Virgin is a virtual mobile phone network in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Virgin offers a tourist plan for 7 days, 10 days, and 15 days. The 7-day Virgin UAE plan price is AED 150, the 10 Days plan price is AED 200, and the 15-day Virgin UAE plan is 300 AED.

With a 7-day Virgin Plan tourist SIM, users will get 30 local and 20 international call minutes. Exclude these, and customers will get 21 GB of data.

Virgin Mobile UAE tourist SIM 10 days plan offers 40 GB of data (4GB/day), 30 local, and 20 international minutes. The price of this plan is AED 200, including the SIM card.

The 15 Days Virgin UAE Tourist Plan offers 75 GB of data, 30 local minutes, 20 free international minutes, and a free Botim app for just 300 AED.

Which is the best UAE Tourist SIM Card Compare Table

Here we have compared Etisalat UAE and DU UAE tourist plans so that users can understand and choose the best network.

Whenever you go to Dubai, you will see a lot of Wi-Fi instead of mobile phone towers. If you are in a place where Wi-Fi signals are coming, then you will get them at a very low rate. SIMs can only be used where Wi-Fi is not available.

Final Words About UAE’s Best SIM Cards:

You have to decide which SIM card is best for you. If you want to buy SIM cards, all companies have introduced an online booking system. Free SIM users who want to buy a Free SIM card can buy a free DU SIM card, but they have to pay a plan fee of 49 AED. If you come to the UAE for a maximum of 15 days, you can choose the Virgin network. The table of comparisons is given above, and you can choose the best network for you.

You may Also Like:

Planspapa Team

[…] you are going to UAE and want to check and compare the best telecom networks in UAE for tourists then Etisalat can be a good choice. Because this network has many types of packages and […]

[…] and widely used network in Dubai with its packages and plans that are very popular. If you are visiting Dubai then you can buy an Etisalat tourist sim card at an affordable price. Etisalat offers a visitor SIM […]

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• eSIM Data Plans

Best eSIM for Dubai: Which one to buy?

This article will tell you everything you need to know about this Dubai eSIM. Advantages, features, prices, and so much more

Brenda Beltrán

January 18, 2023

In this article

Holafly saves you +30% compared to other roaming fees

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Do you want to know which is the best eSIM to travel to Dubai ? Do you need to know how and where you can get one? Is it something that you must take on your trip to this modern Asian destination? If you always want to be connected, you must have an eSIM for Dubai. Avoid paying high costs for roaming services or for renting a pocket wifi .

Of course, you need to know everything about the eSIMs. A new device that is revolutionizing the cellular connectivity industry. That is why this article will tell you how to get an eSIM for Dubai, the prices, advantages, and much more. Read on to find out more about the alternative that will allow you to stay connected to the internet while getting to know the wonderful city of Dubai!

Where can I buy an eSIM for Dubai?

Nowadays, you have three different ways to get this card :

• Get it on international online stores, like Holafly.
• Look for physical stores when you land and make sure they have virtual SIM cards in stock.
• Or, if your cellphone is not eSIM compatible, you can always get a physical SIM card for your stay in Dubai .

eSIM for Dubai

Buy an eSIM for Dubai with a 5% OFF. Code: MYESIMNOW5

What is an eSIM?

The eSIM is a device that, eventually, will replace physical cards. It is a little device that is implanted in the cell phone’s hardware, it can host many telephone operator lines, and it uses QR codes to activate the data plan . You can get it on the Holafly eSIM store.

Advantages of an eSIM for Dubai.

These are some of the many advantages the Holafly eSIM has :

• Holafly’s eSIM works with many of the latest generation phones, so make sure your phone is compatible: here is a list of compatible cell phones .
• You do not need to sign any minimum term clauses or contracts , which makes the purchase process easier.
• You can share data with family, friends, or whoever you’re traveling with. 
• You can keep your WhatsApp in your language , so you can still use the app.
• Furthermore, you’ll have 24-hour chat support, and you can also receive help over the phone.
• You can still use your physical card if you need both devices at the same time.

The eSIM has a great advantage over other alternatives since this is an online service. So, you will not have to wait for a delivery to use it, since your eSIM will arrive in your email in a matter of minutes after the purchase.

How do I activate my eSIM card for Dubai?

Here you have a simple guide to activate your eSIM .

• First, you have to enter the Holafly store, pick your eSIM, and finish the purchase.
• Once you do that, you will receive an email with the QR code that will install the data plan.
• Scan the QR code (you must be connected to the internet), to configure the eSIM in your device. NOTE: The cell phone with which you scan the QR must be the one that is going to carry the data plan.
• Rename the eSIM , so you can differentiate it from your SIM card.
• Once you arrive at your destination, activate the data roaming of your Android or IOS.
• And… That’s it! Now you can access the internet!

How much does a Holafly eSIM card for Dubai cost?

Currently, this virtual card has only one plan available, and it’s the following one:

If you want to visit more Asian countries, we recommend you get the Asia eSIM , so you can keep traveling through Asia with the best internet!

Advantages of the eSIM vs the SIM card for Dubai

• Number portability: fast to carry out, compared to the traditional SIM because you don’t have to wait days or weeks to receive it.
• Easy purchasing: getting the Holafly eSIM is simple and easy.
• It doesn’t need physical installation: an eSIM is a device that is implanted on high-end cell phones, so there’s no plastic chip to insert.
• It does not pollution: being a virtual device, it does not require a physical installation, making it an eco-friendly product.

Etisalat eSIM card for Dubai

When you arrive in Dubai you will find a physical LG U+ operator store , the second most popular in the country. The virtual SIM card of this company has the following characteristics:

• Internet packages to share with other devices.
• Chat service and support on the operator’s web.
• Unlimited calls and messages inside this country.
• A variety of GB browsing packages.

In case you need to use your physical SIM card and the eSIM at the same time, you can use both!

Du eSIM for Dubai

The Du online stores offer an eSIM, and it has the following characteristics:

• 5G networks connection.
• Family plans to share cellular data.
• No contract term clause for prepaid SIMs.

Which is the best eSIM for Dubai?

After reading all of this, there is no doubt: the Holafly eSIM for Dubai is the ideal option! It has multiple advantages, and it has 24/7 customer support. On the other hand, if your smartphone is incompatible, then we recommend you the Holafly physical SIM card for Dubai.

Frequent questions about the best eSIM for Dubai

Here you have a list of the eSIM compatible cell phones: Apple iPhone SE (2020), XR, XS, XS Max, 11, 11 Pro and Pro 11, Pro Max 12, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max, 12 Mini, Samsung S20, Galaxy Z Flip, Note 20 Ultra, Fold LTE, Huawei P40, P40 Pro, Google Pixel 3, 3a, 4, 4a and Motorola Razr 2019. It is also compatible with some iPads:  iPad (iPad Pro 11 and 12.9 inches 3rd generation, iPad Air 3rd generation, iPad 7th generation, and iPad Mini 5th generation).

Once you land and activate the data roaming, from that moment you can start using your data plan. That’s why you should not activate the data before you get to your destination.

The Holafly eSIM for Dubai offers coverage in 4G LTE speed. However, in some places with low coverage, your cellphone might connect to 3G speed.

Yes, you can. That’s not a problem, it is possible to use both cards. But you should know that your domestic operator will charge you for the international roaming.

Recommendations to choose the best eSIM for Dubai

• Don’t get your eSIM at the airport, it is better if you buy it before you travel .
• Download apps, games, and videos before traveling. Don’t waste your data!
• Make sure your cell phone has unlocked bands, so it can connect to other telephone networks.

We’ve reached the end of this article! Hopefully, this information will help you make the best decision. If you pick Holafly, you will have the best internet in Dubai, and you will fully enjoy your trip! You won’t regret it!

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eSIM tariff for data roaming in Dubai

Download now and enjoy 100MB of free data!

Download the easy to install Red Bull MOBILE App and enjoy unlimited Mobile Internet in Dubai or all over the entire United Arab Emirates respectively.

• We never charge a basic fee. Once you activate your eSIM card, you are ready to connect to the world without any basic or roaming fees.
• You will be able to email, chat, set up video conferencing and use your social media accounts. Connecting with your family and friends around the globe is instantaneous.
• Explore our low cost eSIM data plans for Dubai, with instant activation on eSIM-compatible devices. You get to decide which plan works best for your travel needs.
• The first 100MB of data are for free.

Ideal for travel to Dubai or across the United Arab Emirates.

Using a LTE/4G network while traveling through Dubai you can now connect to the internet with your eSIM card and the Red Bull MOBILE Data app and avoid expensive roaming charges. That way you will stay in touch with your family and friends via your favorite apps like WhatsApp, TikTok, Facebook or Instagram. Don’t think about roaming and start saving on your trip.

Simply download the app, choose your data plan for your destination, and follow the instructions on how to activate the Red Bull MOBILE eSIM data plan. Once your account is activated you are ready to connect to the world.

With Red Bull MOBILE you will have a stable and fast internet connection throughout Dubai.

Download the Red Bull MOBILE Data app to see if your device is eSim compatible. You can also check if your smartphone is supported by looking up the settings:

iOS devices: Go to Settings > Mobile Data or Cellular Data, if you have the Add Mobile Plan or Add Data Plan option, your iPhone supports eSIMs.

Supported devices include iPhone XS, XR and newer models

Android devices: Go to Settings > Connections > SIM card manager. If you have the “Add mobile plan” option, your smartphone supports eSIMs.

The majority of newer Android smartphones are supported including the Samsung Galaxy S20 or newer models, Google Pixel 3 or newer models, Huawei P40 and many more.

• Population: 2.96 million (est. 2022)
• Area code: +971
• Currency: UAE dirham
• 7 Arab Emirates: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ras al Khaimah, Adjman, Fujairah and Umm al-Qaiwain
• Dubai is a city and emirate in the United Arab Emirates
• Dubai is the most populous city in the UAE and the capital of the Emirate of Dubai.
• Dubai’s economy relies on revenues from tourism, aviation, real estate, and financial services.
• Dubai is famous for its landmarks, including Burj Khalifa (the world’s tallest building), Dubai Mall, The Dubai Fountain, Burj Al Arab, Palm Jumeirah (a man-made island in the shape of a palm tree) and many more.
• Dubai is also known for its picturesque beaches and desert landscapes, as well as its culinary scene.

Did you know…?

• The Dubai Miracle Garden is the world’s biggest natural flower farden with over 45 Million flowers and plants.
• People who come from Dubai are called Emiratis.

How to get the eSIM for Dubai

Download the red bull mobile esim app.

Go to the app store and download the app for iOS or Android. The app will tell you if your device is compatible.

Set up your eSIM

Start the app and follow the instruction to set up an eSIM on your smartphone.

Select your destination and your bundle

Choose the plan that suits you best and buy your Dubai eSIM card directly in the app. The first 100MB are completely free of charge!

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Help Center

Can i receive phone calls on my primary number with esim  ››, why am i still receiving text messages with an esim  ››, how can i save data usage on my ios device  ››, how can i save data usage on my android device  ››, where can i download the red bull mobile esim app  ››.

You can go ahead and download the Red Bull MOBILE eSIM app from https://esim.redbullmobile.com/app

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When you’ve used up 80% of your data, we’ll let you know — so you won’t get stuck without any.  You’ll get another notification once your data has finally run out.

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⛺️ Camping Adventure at Al Aqah Beach,Fujairah

Organized by Mostafa Elsantawy

• Sep 14, 2024, 3:00 PM — Sep 15, 2024, 6:00 AM (+04)
• Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

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UAE tourism sector on track for record growth; expected to hit Dh236 billion in 2024

T he UAE's tourism sector continues to record remarkable performance in international tourist arrivals and hotel bookings, aligning with the UAE Tourism Strategy 2031, which aims to attract Dh100 billion in tourism investments and boost the sector's contribution to the GDP to Dh450 billion by 2031.

In 2023, the tourism sector contributed 11.7 per cent of the UAE's GDP, totaling Dh220 billion, and is expected to rise to 12 per cent or Dh236 billion in 2024, according to figures from the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC).

The WTTC projects the travel and tourism contribution to the UAE GDP to reach around Dh275.2 by 2034, supported by the world-class infrastructure in the country, which includes airports and accommodations, but also thrilling tourist attractions.

Dubai welcomed 10.62 million tourists in the first seven months of 2024, an 8 per cent increase year-on-year (YoY), data showed. Meanwhile, Abu Dhabi's hotels saw over 2.87 million guests during the first half of 2024, generating Dh3.6 billion, a 19.5 per cent growth YoY.

These accomplishments highlight the success of the UAE's sustainable tourism policies and its strong infrastructure, diverse tourist destinations, and commitment to ongoing development under the National Tourism Strategy 2031.

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Where Kamala Harris Stands on the Issues: Abortion, Immigration and More

She wants to protect the right to abortion nationally. Here’s what else to know about her positions.

• Share full article

By Maggie Astor

• Published July 21, 2024 Updated Aug. 24, 2024

With Vice President Kamala Harris having replaced President Biden on the Democratic ticket, her stances on key issues will be scrutinized by both parties and the nation’s voters.

She has a long record in politics: as district attorney of San Francisco, as attorney general of California, as a senator, as a presidential candidate and as vice president.

Here is an overview of where she stands.

Ms. Harris supports legislation that would protect the right to abortion nationally, as Roe v. Wade did before it was overturned in 2022, in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization.

After the Dobbs ruling, she became central to the Biden campaign’s efforts to keep the spotlight on abortion, given that Mr. Biden — with his personal discomfort with abortion and his support for restrictions earlier in his career — was a flawed messenger. In March, she made what was believed to be the first official visit to an abortion clinic by a president or vice president.

She consistently supported abortion rights during her time in the Senate, including cosponsoring legislation that would have banned common state-level restrictions, like requiring doctors to perform specific tests or have hospital admitting privileges in order to provide abortions.

As a presidential candidate in 2019, she argued that states with a history of restricting abortion rights in violation of Roe should be subject to what is known as pre-clearance for new abortion laws — those laws would have to be federally approved before they could take effect. That proposal is not viable now that the Supreme Court has overturned Roe.

Climate change

Ms. Harris has supported the Biden administration’s climate efforts , including legislation that provided hundreds of billions of dollars in tax credits and rebates for renewable energy and electric vehicles.

“It is clear the clock is not just ticking, it is banging,” she said in a speech last year , referring to increasingly severe and frequent disasters spurred by climate change. “And that is why, one year ago, President Biden and I made the largest climate investment in America’s history.”

During her 2020 presidential campaign, she emphasized the need for environmental justice , a framework that calls for policies to address the adverse effects that climate change has on poor communities and people of color. She has emphasized that as vice president as well.

In 2019, Ms. Harris, then a senator, and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Democrat of New York, introduced legislation that would have evaluated environmental rules and laws by how they affected low-income communities. It would have also established an independent Office of Climate and Environmental Justice Accountability and created a “senior adviser on climate justice” within several federal agencies. In 2020, Ms. Harris introduced a more sweeping version of the bill. None of the legislation was passed.

Ms. Harris was tasked with leading the Biden administration’s efforts to secure voting rights legislation, a job she asked for . The legislation — which went through several iterations but was ultimately blocked in the Senate — would have countered voting restrictions in Republican-led states, limited gerrymandering and regulated campaign finance more strictly.

This year, she met with voting rights advocates and described a strategy that included creating a task force on threats to election workers and challenging state voting restrictions in court.

She has condemned former President Donald J. Trump’s efforts to overturn the 2020 election results. In a speech in 2022 marking the anniversary of the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol, she said that day had showed “what our nation would look like if the forces who seek to dismantle our democracy are successful.” She added, “What was at stake then, and now, is the right to have our future decided the way the Constitution prescribes it: by we the people, all the people.”

Economic policy

In campaign events this year, Ms. Harris has promoted the Biden administration’s economic policies, including the infrastructure bill that Mr. Biden signed, funding for small businesses, a provision in the Inflation Reduction Act that capped the cost of insulin for people on Medicare and student debt forgiveness.

She indicated at an event in May that the administration’s policies to combat climate change would also bring economic benefits by creating jobs in the renewable energy industry. At another event , she promoted more than $100 million in Energy Department grants for auto parts manufacturers to pivot to electric vehicles, which she said would “help to keep our auto supply chains here in America.”

As a senator, she introduced legislation that would have provided a tax credit of up to $6,000 for middle- and low-income families, a proposal she emphasized during her presidential campaign as a way to address income inequality.

Immigration

One of Ms. Harris’s mandates as vice president has been to address the root causes of migration from Latin America, like poverty and violence in migrants’ home countries. Last year, she announced $950 million in pledges from private companies to support Central American communities. Similar commitments made previously totaled about $3 billion.

In 2021, she visited the U.S.-Mexico border and said : “This issue cannot be reduced to a political issue. We’re talking about children, we’re talking about families, we are talking about suffering.”

More recently, she backed a bipartisan border security deal that Mr. Biden endorsed but Mr. Trump, by urging Republican lawmakers to kill it , effectively torpedoed. The legislation would have closed the border if crossings reached a set threshold, and it would have funded thousands of new border security agents and asylum officers. “We are very clear, and I think most Americans are clear, that we have a broken immigration system and we need to fix it,” Ms. Harris said in March .

Israel and Gaza

Ms. Harris called in March for an “immediate cease-fire” in Gaza and described the situation there as a “humanitarian catastrophe.” She said that “the threat Hamas poses to the people of Israel must be eliminated” but also that “too many innocent Palestinians have been killed.”

In an interview later that month , she emphasized her opposition to an Israeli invasion of Rafah, the city in southern Gaza to which more than a million people had fled. “I have studied the maps,” she said. “There’s nowhere for those folks to go, and we’re looking at about 1.5 million people in Rafah who are there because they were told to go there, most of them.”

She has said on multiple occasions that she supports a two-state solution.

Racial justice

Racial justice was a theme of Ms. Harris’s presidential campaign. In a memorable debate exchange in 2019 , she denounced Mr. Biden’s past work with segregationist senators and opposition to school busing mandates.

She has called for ending mandatory minimum sentences, cash bail and the death penalty, which disproportionately affect people of color.

Amid the protests that followed the police killing of George Floyd in 2020, she was one of the senators who introduced the Justice in Policing Act, which would have made it easier to prosecute police officers, created a national registry of police misconduct and required officers to complete training on racial profiling. It was not passed.

Her record as a prosecutor also came into play during her presidential campaign. Critics noted that as attorney general of California, she had generally avoided stepping in to investigate police killings.

Maggie Astor covers politics for The New York Times, focusing on breaking news, policies, campaigns and how underrepresented or marginalized groups are affected by political systems. More about Maggie Astor