How to Get a SIM Card in the UAE: Step-by-Step Guide for Newcomers

It is essential to have a SIM card in the UAE for people who are tourists or moving to the country for work. Mobile connectivity is important for many tasks, like navigating with Google Maps or booking a Careem ride. So, the good news is that you can easily get a SIM card in the UAE because SIM cards and eSIM options are there.  

 Step 1: Choose between a Tourist SIM and a Resident SIM card  in the UAE

If you are planning to stay in the UAE for the short term, you can pick up a free tourist SIM from u or Etisalat kiosks at Dubai International Airport (DXB) or Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH). However, you will get limited data here because these SIMs usually include 1GB of Free Data, after which you can upgrade to a package. 

If you are moving to the country for work, you can consider applying for the normal or residence SIM. However, you need your visa, Emirate ID, and Passport to apply for a residence SIM. Suppose you don’t have your Emirate ID. In that case, you can use a tourist SIM until the Emirate ID is issued. 

Step 2: Pick Your Provider

There are mainly three official telecom companies in the UAE. Moreover, all of them offer competitive packages and services that make it difficult to choose a provider. So, we have created a table to help you understand which provider would be best:

The exact details about the plans will be found on the official portal of the telecom providers. In addition, Bitjoy and Holafly are great digital options for newcomers who have eSIM-compatible devices. 

Step 3: Where to Buy

• At the Airport: du, Etisalat, and Virgin Mobile counters are located in the arrival halls. Only you have to show your passport to register.
• Online Before Travel: Order an eSIM from Holafly or BitJoy and activate it digitally before landing.
• In the City: SIM cards are available at malls, hypermarkets (Carrefour, Lulu), and telecom stores. Virgin Mobile also delivers within an hour if ordered online.

Step 4: Select the Right Package

Here’s a quick breakdown of popular tourist SIM prices (as of 2025):

• du: 4GB + 30 minutes (AED 49) and Unlimited data (7 days – AED 199, 14 days – AED 299).
• Etisalat: 4GB + 30 minutes (AED 46.66) and Unlimited data (7 days – AED 190.47, 14 days – AED 303.81).
• Virgin Mobile: 21GB (7 days – AED 142.86) plus Unlimited data (15 days – AED 261.90).
• Holafly eSIM: Unlimited data (5 days – $20.90 and 10 days – $36.90).
• BitJoy eSIM: $8–$55 based on data and duration.

Step 5: Activate and Stay Connected

Activation is instant for eSIM and physical SIMs. However, you must make sure that your phone is unlocked before traveling. Remember, you need to showcase your passport (for tourists) and Emirate ID (For residents) for activation. 

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