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.
You can walk into shops in the UAE and get an eSIM, as most telecom providers in the UAE offer eSIMs at their retail locations. But purchasing an eSIM online eliminates the need to visit a physical store and means you can get connected from the moment you land.
Online platforms like Sim Local, Airalo, Holafly, and Nomad provide access to multiple eSIM plans tailored for different data needs and durations in the Emirates. We created a list of the best eSIM plans to help you narrow down your options.
Best eSIM Plans: United Arab Emirates
Let’s take a look at some of the best plans currently available. We identified some of the best providers as Smartroam, Airalo, Holafly, Nomad, and Orange.
1. Smartroam
Available from Sim Local, Smartroam plans for UAE start at 1 GB for minimal users over 7 days. For data heavy users, the 20 GB plan from Smartroam costs £28.00 and gives you plenty to work with over a 30-day validity period.
20 GB for 30 Days
Plans are easy to install through the Sim Local app. And when you run low, topping up is a piece of cake too. This plan connects you to the du network in the UAE—the same fast 5G network locals use. And if you're travelling with friends, you'll be glad to know hotspots and data tethering are available.
2. Airalo
Airalo's 'Burj Mobile' eSIM provides a variety of plans, from 1 GB for 7 days to 20 GB for 30 days at £29.00, leveraging the local Etisalat network for robust 4G/LTE coverage throughout the UAE.
20 GB for 30 Days
Its eSIM is easy to install and activate via the Airalo app, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
3. Holafly
Holafly specialises in extensive data eSIMs, offering plans ranging from 1 day to 20 days (for up to £50.00) for the UAE, guaranteeing high-speed connectivity that’s perfect for travelers with heavy data usage needs.
'Extensive Data' for 20 Days
Holafly's eSIM plans offer up to 5G speeds but there is a note that some carriers may reserve the right to apply a Fair Usage Policy. It's also worth noting that Holafly's hotspot allowance offers 500mb per day to share with others.
4. Nomad
Nomad offers eSIM plans with data options of 1 GB for 7 days to 50 GB over 30 days for £56.00, tailored for UAE travelers, catering to both short-term and longer stays.
50 GB for 30 DaysOperating on reliable 4G, LTE, and 5G networks, Nomad ensures high-speed internet access although the network's performance may vary by region and time of day.
5. Orange
Do your travels go beyond the UAE? For £25.50, this 10 GB eSIM plan with Orange covers 149 countries across the globe, ensuring you stay connected without roaming fees after crossing borders.
10 GB (Global) for 14 Days
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.
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.
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