Stay connected – How to get a SIM card in Dubai

Whether you’re a tourist on a short visit or a new resident planning to settle down in the city, one of the first things you can do as soon as you land is to get yourself a Dubai SIM card. You can easily get a SIM at the airport or other locations in the emirate and start enjoying the benefits immediately. We’ve summed up all the requirements and documents you’ll need to get a SIM card in Dubai.

How to get a SIM card in Dubai for Tourist

Buying a SIM card in Dubai as a tourist is a straightforward process. Visitors over 18 years old are eligible for a special Tourism SIM card provided by the telecom company du immediately upon passing through immigration at Dubai International Airport. Virgin Mobile, e& (formerly Etisalat) and du provide premium 5G network coverage throughout Dubai and across the UAE. 

The question “how to get SIM card in Dubai for tourists” has a simple answer. Tourists can show their visas and passports to get a free SIM card at the Dubai International Airport or buy one from the shopping outlets in the city.

du offer free tourist SIM cards in Dubai for new arrivals with a Welcome Bonus of 1 GB of local data available for 24 hours only. Visitors can collect their free SIM from Dubai Immigration Officer at Passport Control.

How to Buy a SIM card in Dubai as A Resident?

If you’re a new resident who just landed here, there are several ways to get a Dubai SIM. Residents can visit any SIM card shop in Dubai with their Emirates ID and select a plan that suits their needs best.

The UAE’s Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) sets all the regulations and paperwork requirements for applicants. Residents asking “how to get a SIM card in Dubai” need their Emirates ID and other supporting documents.

On the other hand, if you’re new to the UAE and do not have your residency-related paperwork ready, you can apply for a tourist SIM available at Etisalat, Virgin Mobile and du.

However, once you get your Emirates ID, convert your tourist line into a prepaid or a postpaid number.

Mobile Carriers in Dubai

You can choose from three main SIM card services in Dubai: Virgin Mobile, du and Etisalat. Each company has post-paid and prepaid mobile phone plans for calls, texts and internet packages. These SIM cards are available at the Dubai Airport, numerous shopping destinations and outlets across Dubai.

How to Apply for an Etisalat SIM CARD in Dubai

Etisalat is one of the biggest mobile carriers in the UAE. It offers a Visitor Line – a new prepaid package for tourists and new residents. This carrier offers instant connectivity and an array of services that include:

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

e& Visitor Line offers other discounts and benefits, such as discounts on Careem taxis. Moreover, tourists can avoid expensive roaming costs with different bundles.

Make the most of the internet calls made via the GoChat Messenger app with Visitor Line Premium, Visitor Line Premium Plus and Visitor Line Unlimited Local Data plans.

e& offers reasonably priced packages for locals as well. And it’s easy to renew e& (Etisalat) SIM registration online if you change your address or alter other aspects of your paperwork. There is an array of plans with different services to choose from.

If you don’t want to visit an e& store or business centre, book your Etisalat SIM in Dubai online.

VISITOR LINE PACKAGE DETAILS

Here are the complete package details for Visitor Line:

How to Apply for a du SIM CARD in Dubai

Pre-book your SIM from the official du website to save time and get additional benefits. Moreover, download the ALSAADA app to get amazing discounts on dining, retail and other popular attractions.

If you’ve used up your free data, recharge your card easily online or through any of the stores and business centres in the city. du internet packages are available as well.

du Tourist SIM Card Package Details

The du free SIM in Dubai has a 10 GB Welcome Bonus valid for 24 hours. Here are the details of tourist plans by du:

du Unlimited Data Plans

How to Apply for a Virgin Mobile SIM Card in Dubai

Virgin Mobile is another popular mobile carrier in the UAE that offers special packages for tourists and locals. Those with plans to visit can opt for the Virgin Mobile Tourist SIM card in Dubai that offers local and international minutes and data to keep you going.

Residents can also choose the Virgin Mobile SIM card for prepaid phone plans in Dubai. The telecommunication company offers different monthly, half-yearly and yearly mobile plans. Customers can create customised plans with Virgin Mobile based on their voice calls, SMS and data usage.

FAQs About Dubai SIM Cards

What is a Dubai SIM card price?

Dubai SIM price depends on the telecom provider and the package selected. Tourists can get a du SIM for free, while others may be required to pay a charge.

Is it mandatory to register your SIM card in Dubai?

Yes, registering your SIM card in Dubai with your official and valid ID, such as a passport, Emirates ID or driving licence, is mandatory, according to TRDA regulations.

Is mobile number portability allowed in the UAE?

Yes, it is allowed if you have the required paperwork. du, e& and Virgin Mobile offer number porting services for customers. The rules may vary depending on the carrier’s rules and regulations. Check our guide on “ Can I change my e& number to du” to know more.

Which SIM is free in the UAE?

Almost all carriers offer a free SIM in Dubai with home delivery option; you’ll need to pay for the internet and call bundles.

How to buy a SIM in Dubai without an Emirates ID?

If you’re a visitor in the UAE, you can get a pre-paid SIM by registering your passport as your identification document.

These mobile phone plans are specifically designed for tourists and are available on tourist SIM cards. Residents can also choose from several different Dubai internet plans provided by du and Etisalat.

If you are new to the city, have a look at tips for travelling to Dubai for first-timers to move around the city. Also, familiarise yourself with the list of banned food items in Dubai so you can have a pleasant experience at the airport.