Dubai sim card for tourists in 2024: It’s critical to have internet access when travelling, whether you’re wanting to reserve a taxi, send pictures to pals back home, or purchase tickets to your top Dubai sites. Even though many hotels and public spaces in Dubai offer free Wi-Fi, a SIM card will provide you with a constant internet connection whenever it’s convenient for you. Getting a local SIM card is a smart choice if you’re visiting Dubai. You will be able to enjoy far more affordable rates for calls, messages, and data than you would be able to use a SIM card from your own country. All the information you require to obtain a SIM card in Dubai is provided here.
4G SIM Card Options
All SIM cards are valid for 28 days from the day of pick-up.
Regular Pack
AED 49
- Data: 2 GB
- Minutes: 30 (Local & International)
Mega Pack
AED 79
- Data: 4 GB
- Minutes: 30 (Local & International)
Pro Pack
AED 125
- Data: 8 GB
- Minutes: 120 (Local & International)
Ultra Pack
AED 200
- Data: 22.5 GB
- Minutes: 525 (Local & International)
Why Buy a SIM Card in Dubai?
- Your savings will be substantial: Using a local SIM will result in significant cost savings as international roaming charges can be very hefty.
- Uninterrupted access to the internet: Being able to be in constant communication will make your trip to Dubai—a very sophisticated city—much more enjoyable. Both local calls and messages are supported. If you need to call a restaurant to make a reservation or ask for directions, this can come in useful.
- It’s more convenient: You’ll have a local number that anyone can call when you have a Dubai SIM card. Compared to attempting to arrange phone calls or texts with somebody using a foreign number, this is far simpler.
- Your data coverage will be improved: You can have patchy coverage or extremely sluggish speeds if you’re using a SIM card from your native country for data. Much greater data coverage will be available to you if you use a local SIM.
Requirements for Getting a SIM Card in Dubai
- Make sure you have your passport and visa (if needed) on hand to redeem your SIM card. You will also need to present a copy of your visa if you are not an Emirates citizen.
- Tourists must be at least 16 years old.
- The UAE Telecom Regulation states that a person may only have one SIM card per passport in the United Arab Emirates.
Where to Buy
Airports
The majority of Dubai’s airports include shops where visitors may purchase SIM cards. There are two primary locations at Dubai International Airport where you can buy a SIM card. One can find the first one at any of the several kiosks dotted about the airport. Buying your SIM card from one of the main telecom companies that are present at the airport is your second choice.
Telecom Providers
There are various possibilities available if you’re looking to get your SIM card from a telecom operator in the city. There are several smaller carriers in the city in addition to the two most well-known ones, Etisalat and du. It’s crucial to evaluate the various prices and services that each company offers while selecting one.
After deciding on a provider, you can buy your SIM card from one of their physical stores. Finding a telecom provider shouldn’t be that difficult because most of them have several retail outlets across Dubai.
Top Telecom Providers in Dubai:
- Etisalat
- Du
How to Activate Your Dubai SIM Card?
You must enter your SIM card into your phone to activate it. After inserting it, you’ll need to input a code that the supplier will supply. It will activate your SIM card and allow you to use it once you have entered the code.
Best e-sim cards for the UAE
An e-sim card is the most convenient way to stay connected in Abu Dhabi in 2024. For convenience, Traveltomtom uses and suggests e-sim cards. Changing actual SIM cards or going to a phone store is no longer necessary. In a few easy steps, get your e-sim card directly online.
You place an online order for an e-sim card for the UAE, receive a QR code, scan it, and then follow the easy instructions to have the card loaded on your phone in less than two minutes. You may practically start using data on your phone as soon as the airline lands in Abu Dhabi, as it instantly connects you to an available network.
Airalo
Traveltomtom has utilised Airalo’s e-sim cards in over 50 countries worldwide, as they are a dependable supplier. View the Abu Dhabi e-sim card plans offered by Airalo:
- 1 GB data for 7 days = $8.5
- 3 GB data for 30 days = $22.5
- 5 GB data for 30 days = $35
Nomad
Not to be overlooked, Nomad offers the most affordable e-sim card packages for visiting the United Arab Emirates in 2024.
The Abu Dhabi Nomad e-sim card plans are as follows:
- 1 GB data for 7 days = $8
- 3 GB data for 30 days = $11
- 5 GB data for 30 days = $13
- 10 GB data for 30 days = $22
Simoptions
For Abu Dhabi, SimOptions provides a variety of e-sim card plans. SimOptions has been used by Traveltomtom for many years without any problems.
- 1 GB data for 30 days = $8.90
- 3 GB data for 30 days = $21.90
- 5 GB data for 30 days = $34.90
- 10 GB data for 14 days = $39.90
- 10 GB data for 30 days = $59.90
FAQs
Do I need to buy a local SIM card to use my phone in Dubai?
No, to use your phone in Dubai, you do not need to purchase a local SIM card. It is advised, nevertheless. Making the most of your trip and maintaining connectivity while in the city is possible with a local SIM card.
What is the best way to purchase a SIM card in Dubai?
Purchasing a SIM card from one of the main telecom companies in the city is the best option when buying one in Dubai. The two most well-known providers are Du and Etisalat, however, the city is also home to several smaller providers. In Dubai, you can also purchase a SIM card online.
Can I use my Dubai SIM card in another country?
No, you are unable to use your Dubai SIM card abroad. Because every nation has different SIM card requirements, your Dubai SIM card won’t function in another.
Can I recharge my Dubai SIM card?
It is possible to reload your SIM card in Dubai. The majority of suppliers provide a range of recharge choices, including automated, in-person, and internet recharging.
What should I do if my Dubai SIM card is lost or stolen?
Call your provider right away if your Dubai SIM card is stolen or lost. Your SIM card can be cancelled and a new one sent to you.