Does eSIM work in United Arab Emirates?
Yes. Both UAE carriers support eSIM. Dubai and Abu Dhabi have outstanding 5G. Travel eSIMs are convenient because local SIMs have strict ID requirements.
Major carriers supporting eSIM
- etisalat
- du
Popular eSIM plan types in United Arab Emirates
Data plans 1–20 GB for 3–15 days; relatively pricey but fast.
How to get an eSIM for United Arab Emirates
- Buy before you fly (recommended). Choose a travel eSIM provider, pick a data bundle for United Arab Emirates (or an Asia/Europe/global pack), and pay online. You'll get a QR code by email within minutes.
- Install on Wi-Fi. On iPhone: Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM. On Android: Settings → Network → SIMs → Download a SIM. Scan the QR code at home so it's ready when you land.
- Activate on arrival. Turn on the new plan, enable Data Roaming, and your phone will connect to etisalat (or a partner network).
- Top up if needed. Most providers let you add more data from their app without buying a new eSIM.
Reminder: travel eSIMs are almost always data-only — standard voice calls/SMS don't work, but WhatsApp, FaceTime, Signal, Telegram etc. all do.
Compare United Arab Emirates eSIM plans
See real-time prices from 20+ providers. Filter by data amount, duration, hotspot support and 5G.
Good to know
- Make sure your phone supports eSIM — check your phone if you haven't already.
- Your phone must be unlocked (carrier-locked phones, especially some US Samsung models, can't add third-party eSIMs).
- You don't need to remove your physical SIM — keep it active for incoming calls/texts while using the eSIM for data.