Why choose an eSIM for the United Arab Emirates?

The United Arab Emirates is a highly connected country with strong mobile networks, making it easy to stay online. eSIMs offer convenience for travellers visiting Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or Sharjah.

Which destinations are popular for eSIM use in the UAE?

Top destinations include Dubai Marina, Dubai Mall, and the Burj Khalifa. These areas provide excellent mobile coverage, ideal for tourists needing reliable data.

Should I get a local eSIM or a physical SIM card in the UAE?

While you can purchase both in-store, buying a travel eSIM online lets you connect immediately on arrival, saving time and avoiding queues at mobile kiosks.

How can I get connected at Dubai International Airport?

By downloading your eSIM before flying, you’ll have instant connectivity as soon as you land—no physical SIM card required.

What are the best eSIM plans for travellers to the UAE?

Sim Local offers Smartroam plans ranging from 3 GB to 20 GB, all valid for 30 days and compatible with du and Etisalat networks. There’s also a global Orange plan offering 10 GB across 149 countries.

Is my phone compatible with eSIM?

Most newer phones support eSIM, but it varies by region and device. Your phone must also be unlocked. Check your device's compatibility before purchasing a plan.

Can I use an eSIM alongside my physical SIM card?

Yes, your phone can use both. The eSIM can manage mobile data while your home SIM remains active for calls and texts. Be aware of potential roaming charges.

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Best eSIM Plans for the UAE

Q: Why can’t I access eSIM providers in the UAE?

Due to local regulations, some providers may be blocked. To avoid issues, download and install your eSIM before arrival or use airport WiFi or a VPN.

29 May 2025

In this post...

Why choose an eSIM for the UAE?

In the UAE, an eSIM is convenient because you can activate it instantly, no need to go to a shop. It allows you to use a local UAE number while keeping your home number, which helps you avoid high roaming charges.

Best eSIM plans for the UAE

Let’s look at some of the best UAE eSIM plans from Smartroam and Orange.

1. Smartroam 20 GB Data Only for 30 Days

Out of all our Smartroam plans for the UAE, this 20 GB plan offers the best value per gigabyte. It costs US$63.00 and gives you plenty to work with over 30 days!

Best Value

‍Plans are easy to install in a couple of minutes through the Sim Local app. And when you run low, topping up is a piece of cake too. All Smartroam plans use both du and Etisalat networks, giving you strong coverage across the UAE and 5G speeds in big cities. And if you're travelling with friends, you'll be glad to know hotspots and data tethering are available.

Data: 20 GB
Network: du and Etisalat
Hotspot included: Yes
Duration: 30 days
Setup time: 3 minutes

2. Smartroam 10 GB Data Only for 30 Days

Our top-selling UAE plan gives you 10GB of fast 4G/5G data to browse, map, message, and more! This plan is great for travellers who want good data at a low price. Whether you're in Dubai, Abu Dhabi or exploring the desert, you'll stay connected on the du and Etisalat network. The two biggest networks in the UAE.

Top Seller

Data: 10 GB
Network: du and Etisalat
Hotspot included: Yes
Duration: 30 days
Setup time: 3 minutes

3. Smartroam 5 GB Data Only for 30 Days

Perfect for a week-long holiday or business trip, this plan gives you 5GB of high-speed data on the du and Etisalat network in the UAE. Whether you’re using Google Maps, uploading posts or staying in touch via WhatsApp, you’ll have just the right amount of data to do it all.

Hotspot-friendly and super easy to check usuage and top up through the Sim Local app. No contracts or ID required. Just fast mobile data from the moment you land.

Data: 5 GB
Network: du and Etisalat
Hotspot included: Yes
Duration: 30 days
Setup time: 3 minutes

4. Smartroam 3 GB Data Only for 30 Days

This 3GB plan is perfect for light travellers. Great for checking emails and socials, managing bookings, and using Google Maps.

Top Seller

Data: 3 GB
Network: du and Etisalat
Hotspot included: Yes
Duration: 30 days
Setup time: 3 minutes

5. Orange 20 GB Data, Calls, and Texts for 31 Days

If you're planning to travel beyond the UAE this 20 GB eSIM plan from Orange covers 153 countries across the globe, ensuring you stay connected without roaming fees after crossing borders.

No need to adjust your settings either; your phone will disconnect from the previous network and reconnect to the new local network automatically when you cross borders.

Data: 20 GB
Network: Orange
Hotspot included: Yes
Duration: 31 days
Setup time: 3 minutes

How to check if your phone supports eSIM?

You can check this list of compatible devices to confirm if your phone supports eSIM. Some brands add eSIM support via software updates, so check with the device manufacturer if you’re unsure. Also, your phone must be unlocked to enjoy all the benefits of a Sim Local eSIM while travelling.

How to activate an eSIM?

To activate your eSIM, check our eSIM activation guide for all devices.

Why can’t I access eSIM providers in the UAE?

If you’re in the UAE and can’t access an eSIM provider's website or app, you’re not alone. This isn’t a tech glitch. It's about local regulations. The main mobile operators in the UAE (like Etisalat and Du) prefer you to use their roaming offers when you land, so some eSIM providers (like Sim Local) are blocked as a result.

What can you do about it?

Here are three tips to stay connected and avoid this problem.

Download before you fly

Purchase and install your eSIM before you arrive in the UAE. At the airport? Use airport WiFi to get setup in under 3 minutes. Once you land, you might not be able to access the app or site at all.

Use airport WiFi or a VPN

A VPN can also work to bypass the block if you’re already there.

Reach out to our customer service team

Need something that just works wherever you land? That’s what we’re here for. Whether you're heading, we've got you covered. You can even contact us on WhatsApp.

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