The United Arab Emirates (UAE) offers plenty to see, especially if you plan to visit Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah, the most popular of the country’s seven emirates. A highly connected nation with a robust network led by two wireless carriers (Etisalat and DU), keeping in touch shouldn’t be difficult while staying there.
Sim Local always partners with trusted local networks to deliver the fastest, most reliable connection, whether your visit to the Gulf is for business or pleasure. All you need is the Sim Local app to download a travel eSIM before jetting off!
Sim Local's Smartroam plans help you stay connected while visiting the UAE without worrying about buying a SIM or eSIM from a local merchant. More importantly, they save you from costly roaming fees.
Smartroam plans are easy to install through the Sim Local app and just as easy to track your data balance. And when you run low, topping up is a piece of cake too.
Smartroam eSIMs connect to the DU network in the UAE—the same network locals use. And if you're travelling with friends, you'll be glad to know hotspots and data tethering are available.
United Arab Emirates eSIM data plans
Let’s take a look at the current plans available to you.
1 GB – 7 Days
Not sure if you need much data or only plan to use it for email and messaging? A modest 1 GB could be all you need for a weeklong stay. If you run low, you can always add more through the Sim Local app.
3 GB – 30 Days
You don’t have to stay for a full month to utilise 3 GB of data, but this plan may work perfectly if you extend your stay or visit at least twice within 30 days.
5 GB – 30 Days
If you plan on staying longer, you may need a bigger data allowance. Starting at 5 GB may be just right to cover your usage needs.
10 GB – 30 Days
You could choose to double the data without paying twice as much. This 30-day plan gives you 10 GB to start with, adding peace of mind if you end up streaming or uploading content.
20 GB – 30 Days
If data is a big part of your plans, whether creating content or maintaining a daily level of connectivity, this 20 GB plan gives you plenty to work with.
Global Plan – 10 GB with Orange – 14 Days
Do your travels go beyond the UAE? This eSIM and 10 GB plan with Orange covers 149 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.
Making sure your phone supports eSIM
To enjoy these plans, your phone must support eSIM functionality. While devices from popular brands generally do (every iPhone model since iPhone 12 is compatible), it’s not always guaranteed. Compatibility can sometimes be region-specific, where two variants of the same device – for instance, one in Europe and another in North America – may not share the same eSIM support.
You can check this list of compatible devices to confirm if your phone offers eSIM functionality. Note that some brands add eSIM support via software updates, so it’s best to check with the device manufacturer if you’re unsure.
In addition, your phone must be unlocked to enjoy all the benefits of a Sim Local eSIM while travelling. Manufacturers or wireless carriers may lock phones when they subsidise the upfront cost. It’s easy to check this, whether you have an iPhone or Android device, by following a few simple steps.
Sim Local cannot unlock your phone for you – only your local network provider can do that. Rules and regulations about phone locks vary by country, and in some regions, it’s illegal to sell a locked phone. Double-check this if you’re unsure.
Using eSIM with a physical SIM card
If your phone has a physical SIM card from your local provider, you don’t need to remove it to use an eSIM. They can work together. For instance, a Sim Local eSIM can handle data while your home SIM maintains connectivity for calls and texts. However, keep in mind that the latter may incur fees with your native provider.
