Being able to stay connected while on vacation is important, whether you're trying to book a cab, share photos with your friends back home, or looking to book tickets to your favorite attractions in Dubai. Although you can find free Wi-Fi in many hotels and public areas throughout Dubai, a SIM card will give you uninterrupted internet access at your convenience. If you're traveling to Dubai, it's a good idea to pick up a local SIM card. This will give you access to much cheaper rates for calls, texts, and data than you would get with your home country's SIM. Here's everything you need to know about getting a SIM card in Dubai.

Your 4G SIM Card Options Explained

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?

Dubai Sim Card - Why Buy a Sim Card in Dubai?
  1. You'll save a lot of money. International roaming rates can be very high, so you'll save a lot of money by using a local SIM.
  2. Uninterrupted internet access. Dubai is a very modern city, and being able to stay connected at all times will make your trip much more enjoyable.You can make local calls and texts. This can be handy if you need to call a restaurant to make a reservation or get directions.
  3. It's more convenient. With a Dubai SIM card, you'll have a local number that people can reach you at. This is much easier than trying to coordinate calling or texting people using an international number.
  4. You'll have better data coverage. If you're relying on your home country's SIM card for data, you may find that you have spotty coverage or very slow speeds. With a local SIM, you'll be able to enjoy much better data coverage.

Know Before You Buy a Sim Card in Dubai

Requirements for Getting a SIM Card in Dubai

  • Keep your Passport & Visa (if required) ready with you for SIM Card redemption. If you are not a citizen of the United Arab Emirates, you will also need to provide a copy of your visa.
  • Tourisits must be aged 16 and above.
  • The United Arab Emirates does not allow more than one SIM card per passport, according to the UAE Telecom Regulation.

Airports

Most airports in Dubai have kiosks that offer SIM cards to tourists. At the Dubai International Airport, there are two main places where you can purchase a SIM card. The first is at one of the many kiosks that are located throughout the airport. The second option is to purchase your SIM card from one of the major telecom providers that have a presence at the airport.

Telecom Providers

If you're looking to purchase your SIM card from a telecom provider in the city, there are several options to choose from. The two most popular providers are Etisalat and du, but there are also a number of smaller providers that operate in the city. When you're choosing a provider, it's important to compare the different rates and services that each one offers.

Once you've selected a provider, you can purchase your SIM card from one of their retail locations. Most telecom providers have a number of retail locations throughout Dubai, so finding one should not be a problem.

Top Telecom Providers in Dubai:

How to Activate Your Dubai SIM Card?

To activate your SIM card, you will need to insert it into your phone. Once it's inserted, you will need to enter a code that is provided by the provider. After you've entered the code, your SIM card will be activated and you'll be able to start using it.

Frequently Asked Questions about Buying a Sim card in Dubai

No, you do not need to buy a local SIM card to use your phone in Dubai. However, it is recommended. A local SIM card will allow you to stay connected while you're in the city and make the most of your trip.