Dubai & UAE eSIM: Travel Data Plans

Description

Our UAE eSIM covers Dubai, Abu Dhabi and the rest of the Emirates, including a stopover on the way to Asia or Australia. Roaming in the UAE is expensive on most UK plans, so a local data eSIM saves money even on a short visit. Plans start with a 1 GB day pass, ideal for a long layover, and go up to Unlimited.

Dubai & UAE eSIM plans and prices

Card and PayPal payments add a small fee shown at checkout. Bank transfer has no fee.

Which Dubai & UAE eSIM plan should I choose?

For a layover, 1 GB is plenty. A week’s holiday: 3 GB to 5 GB for most people. Business travellers who send large files or join video meetings should look at 10 GB or 20 GB.

Unlimited plans may slow down after heavy daily use under the local network’s fair-use rules. If you need to share your phone’s internet (hotspot), message us before you buy.

Who is this Dubai & UAE eSIM for?

• Stopovers and layovers at Dubai or Abu Dhabi airport
• Winter sun holidays in Dubai
• Business trips to the Emirates
• Family visits of up to a month

Good to know before you use data in the UAE

• Voice and video calls through some internet apps, including WhatsApp, have long been restricted in the UAE, while text messages work as normal. Check the latest position before you rely on app calls.
• Dubai Metro, taxis, malls and hotels all have Wi-Fi, but you will still want your own data for ride apps and maps.
• Many people stop over in Dubai for one or two days. The 1 GB day pass and 1 GB 7-day plan are made for that.

How to set up your Dubai & UAE eSIM

1. Check your phone supports eSIM and is unlocked. Not sure? Read our guide to unlocking your phone.
2. Choose your Dubai & UAE plan above and pay by card, PayPal or bank transfer.
3. We email your QR code by hand, 10am to 8pm, every day.
4. At home on Wi-Fi, scan it in Settings (Mobile Data or SIM manager, then Add eSIM). When you land in Dubai & UAE, switch that line on and turn on data roaming for the eSIM only.

Before you travel, it is worth reading the GOV.UK travel advice for Dubai & UAE.

More travel eSIMs

Travelling further? See our India eSIM, Pakistan eSIM, Egypt eSIM, or browse every country in our travel eSIM shop. Want to call landlines abroad from the UK? Our international calling cards start from £1.49. Need a UK SIM for a visitor? See our pay as you go SIM cards.

Phone not eSIM-ready, or the screen cracked before your trip? Visit our phone repair shop in Plaistow at 396 Barking Road, London E13 8HJ, open every day 10am to 8pm.

Dubai & UAE eSIM questions

Is this a Dubai eSIM or a UAE eSIM?

Both. It works across the United Arab Emirates, including Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah.

Can I make WhatsApp calls in Dubai with this eSIM?

Messages work. App-based voice and video calls have been restricted in the UAE for years, and the rules can change, so check before you travel.

When will I get my Dubai & UAE eSIM QR code?

We email QR codes by hand during shop hours, 10am to 8pm, every day. Order at least a day before you fly, so you can install it at home on Wi-Fi.

Can I keep my UK number?

Yes, if your phone has dual SIM. Your UK SIM stays in for calls and texts (your UK network’s roaming rates apply to those), and the eSIM handles data. WhatsApp keeps your usual number.

Is my phone eSIM compatible?

Most recent phones are: iPhone 11 or newer, Samsung Galaxy S20 or newer, Google Pixel 3 or newer. The phone must also be unlocked. See Apple’s eSIM guide or Samsung’s eSIM guide, or ask us.