United Arab Emirates eSIM

Which UAE plan fits your trip

The UAE plans on the cards above come in these shapes:

• Daily data suits steady use: maps, ride-hailing, messaging and photos every day.
• Unlimited suits heavy users, business trips with a laptop and remote work. A fair-use policy applies; the plan details say how.
• A one-day plan covers a stopover in Dubai or Abu Dhabi between flights.

The global plans also cover the UAE, which helps on a trip that continues to other countries. See fixed, daily or unlimited for how each type behaves.

Coverage across the Emirates

Coverage is strong across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and the other cities, including the Dubai Metro, the malls and the main highways between the emirates. It is thinner in the open desert and in the Hajar Mountains, so download offline maps before a desert safari, a drive to Hatta or a trip into the mountains.

App calls: check before you rely on them

Voice and video calls over some internet apps have long been restricted in the UAE, while messaging in the same apps works. The list of allowed apps has changed over time, so check the current rules before counting on app calls, and use your usual SIM for an important phone call. These rules apply on every network in the country, travel eSIMs included. Our eSIM for Dubai and the UAE guide covers this in more detail.

Arriving at the airport

Install the eSIM at home on Wi-Fi a day or two before you fly. When you land at Dubai International (DXB), Dubai World Central (DWC), Abu Dhabi (AUH) or Sharjah, turn on data roaming for the eSIM line only and keep it off on your usual SIM. You can then book a taxi or ride-hailing car, check the Metro or message your hotel from the arrivals hall.

How much data do you need?

A typical visitor using maps, ride-hailing, messaging and photos uses around 1 GB a day. Business travelers who share their connection with a laptop, and anyone making video calls or streaming, use much more: an unlimited plan is the simpler choice for them.

Conferences and trade shows

Dubai and Abu Dhabi host large events through the year. During a big show, networks around the exhibition centers carry heavy traffic. Install your eSIM before you fly, keep data spare for sharing a connection with a laptop, and carry a power bank.