Best eSIM cards for mobile data and roaming in the United Arab Emirates

Introduction

The United Arab Emirates ranks among the most sought-after tourist and business destinations in the Middle East. Each year, this country attracts millions of tourists, business travelers, and expats drawn by its futuristic architecture, luxury shopping malls, sandy beaches, and rich Arabian culture.

Many travelers need reliable internet connection during their visit to the UAE, but standard roaming fees are often extremely high. Finding a physical SIM card after arrival can be time-consuming, which is why more and more visitors choose eSIM – a digital solution that eliminates the need to handle physical cards.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll introduce you to the most reliable eSIM providers for the United Arab Emirates, including Airalo, Holafly, Yesim, eSIM4Travel and Jetpac. We'll explore various data packages (2 GB, 5 GB, 10 GB, 20 GB and unlimited) and help you choose the optimal solution for your stay.

With eSIM, you'll avoid unpleasant international roaming charges and get internet connection immediately upon arrival. In the following chapters, you'll find detailed installation guides, useful tips for traveling in the UAE, and a clear comparison of all available plans so you can fully enjoy your trip to the Emirates – with continuous internet access and without worrying about high bills.

Best eSIM providers for the United Arab Emirates

eSIM4Travel in the UAE

4.4/5 ★★★★☆

eSIM provider eSIM4Travel from the USA offers very competitive prices for data plans and coverage in 170 countries. It doesn't offer an app, but allows easy setup via QR code and has excellent customer support through online chat.

Basic Information

170 countries, regional plans (Asia, Middle East, Latin America, Europe).

Supports data top-ups.

Hotspot allowed.

No speed limitations.

Pros and Cons

Simple installation and activation.

Very competitive prices.

Excellent customer support.

No mobile app.

Absence of unlimited data plans.

Testing

Go to eSIM4Travel website View full review

eSIM4Travel in the United Arab Emirates partners with Etisalat, which is the largest and most stable mobile service provider in the country. This ensures excellent coverage in all major cities and tourist areas. For travelers seeking an economical and reliable solution, eSIM4Travel represents an ideal choice. Their service is known for quick activation after installation, responsive customer support, and direct access to operators who can help with any issues. Price-wise, it's among the most affordable options on the market. They provide unlimited connection speeds, don't require installation of additional apps, and allow purchasing additional data directly on an already activated eSIM, which you'll appreciate during longer stays.

Airalo eSIM in the UAE

3.4/5 ★★★☆☆

Airalo is a popular eSIM marketplace with coverage in 211 countries, fast activation and affordable prices. However, it's not always the best choice for unlimited data.

Basic Information

211 countries, local, regional and global eSIM.

Excellent iPhone app. 4.6 from 61,000 reviews.

Excellent Android app. 4.5 from 72,000 reviews.

Supports data top-ups.

Hotspot allowed.

No speed limitations.

Pros and Cons

Wide coverage (211 countries) and easy activation.

User-friendly app and website.

Immediate functionality after installation without needing to restart.

Significantly higher prices compared to competitors.

Inability to purchase additional data without Wi-Fi after depleting the package.

Low rating on Trustpilot (2.6/5).

Testing

Go to Airalo website View full review

Airalo in the UAE operates through the Etisalat network, which guarantees quality coverage throughout the country. Travelers often praise Airalo's stable connection across the entire Middle East region, including neighboring countries like Saudi Arabia, Qatar, or Oman. The activation process is user-friendly and takes approximately two minutes. A major advantage is the official Airalo app, which allows convenient monitoring of data usage and easy top-ups anytime during your trip, which you'll especially appreciate if you extend your stay or experience unexpectedly high data consumption.

Holafly eSIM in the UAE

3.5/5 ★★★☆☆

Holafly is a leading Irish eSIM provider with truly unlimited data in more than 160 countries. However, if you only need a small amount of data, it might be more expensive.

Basic Information

160 countries, local and regional unlimited eSIM.

Average iPhone app. 3.5 from 150 reviews.

Excellent Android app. 4.6 from 1,000 reviews.

Supports additional data purchases.

Hotspot mostly limited to 500 MB.

Speed limited according to Fair Use Policy (approx. 4.5 GB/day).

Pros and Cons

Truly unlimited data in 160+ countries.

Fast and helpful customer support.

Low transparency regarding FUP limits.

Hotspot not available in all countries.

Testing

Go to Holafly website View full review

Holafly in the UAE uses the Etisalat network, which provides excellent coverage in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and other cities and tourist destinations in the United Arab Emirates. In desert areas or locations far from cities, coverage quality may decrease. Holafly stands out by offering exclusively unlimited data packages, ensuring you'll never have to worry about running out of data. For UAE visitors, Holafly's unlimited data prices range between $19 and $99, with options to purchase for periods from 5 to 90 days.

It's important to mention that although the data is marketed as unlimited, excessive usage (such as continuous high-definition streaming or downloading large files) may result in temporary speed restrictions. Users report that this slowdown may occur after using approximately 5 GB of data within a short time period.

Yesim eSIM in the UAE

4.4/5 ★★★★☆

Yesim is a Swiss eSIM provider with coverage in 135 countries. It offers both fixed and unlimited data packages at very competitive prices.

Basic information

135 countries, local, regional and global eSIM (including unlimited).

Good iPhone app. 4.4 from 600 reviews.

Average Android app. 3.6 from 2,000 reviews.

Supports data top-ups.

Hotspot allowed.

May limit speed during excessive use.

Pros and cons

Top prices per GB.

Offers both fixed and unlimited packages.

More complicated installation than competitors.

Frequent spam notifications via email and app.

Go to Yesim website View full review

Yesim in the United Arab Emirates uses both Etisalat and DU networks. This dual network support ensures seamless internet connection in Abu Dhabi, Al Fujairah, Al Ain, Dubai, Madinat Zayed, Ras Al Khaimah, Sharjah, Umm Al Quwain, and other UAE cities. Thanks to access to both major operators, Yesim provides greater flexibility and connection reliability even in areas where one of the operators might have weaker signal. More detailed information about this service can be found in our detailed Yesim overview.

Jetpac eSIM in the UAE

3.8/5 ★★★☆☆

Jetpac offers eSIM plans with coverage in more than 150 countries. Data packages from 1 GB to 40 GB, attractive pricing and benefits such as access to airport lounges during flight delays.

Basic Information

150 countries, eSIM for individual and multiple countries.

Average iPhone app. 3.8 from 46 reviews.

Average Android app. 3.6 from 224 reviews.

Supports additional data purchase.

Hotspot allowed.

Speed limited according to Fair Use.

Pros and Cons

Low price per GB and stable speeds.

Free airport lounges and ExpressVPN.

No unlimited data plans available.

No SMS and call support.

Go to Jetpac website View full review

Jetpac provides connection in the United Arab Emirates through the Etisalat network. This network offers quality coverage in all key areas of the country, especially in major urban areas and tourist centers. Jetpac is known for its competitive prices and clear package structure. For more detailed information about the features and benefits of this service, we recommend our comprehensive guide about Jetpac, where you'll find detailed evaluations including user reviews.

Best eSIM plans for the United Arab Emirates

Below you'll find an overview of the most sought-after eSIM data packages for the United Arab Emirates. For a comprehensive comparison of all available options, we recommend using our eSIM comparison tool for the UAE, which allows you to filter offers by data volume, validity period, and many other criteria.

Free data in the UAE

If you only need minimal internet connection, for example to check emails or quick searches, Roamless offers free 250 MB of data for the United Arab Emirates.

For more options to get free data, visit our specialized article Free eSIM | How to get free data for the USA and abroad. A complete overview of all available offers including free options can be found in our eSIM comparison tool.

Roamless

How to set up eSIM for the United Arab Emirates

Setting up an eSIM for the United Arab Emirates is a quick and simple process that will save you considerable time during your trip. The main advantage is the ability to completely prepare your internet connection before departure, eliminating the need to search for SIM card vendors after arrival and overcome potential communication barriers.

• Complete guide for installing eSIM on iPhone
• Simple process for activating eSIM on Samsung phones
• Overview of devices supporting eSIM technology

1. Device compatibility check: Before purchasing an eSIM, it's essential to verify whether your phone supports this technology. Most modern smartphones from manufacturers like Apple, Samsung, or Google are compatible with eSIM. To be sure, you can use our updated list of phones with eSIM support or complete overview of compatible devices for 2024.

2. Choosing the optimal provider: For the United Arab Emirates, you have several reputable providers available such as Airalo, Holafly, Yesim, eSIM4Travel or JetPac. When choosing a data package, consider the length of your stay and planned activities – for regular use of navigation and social media, 2 GB will be sufficient, for more intensive use we recommend 5 GB or 10 GB packages. The most accurate comparison of all available options can be obtained using our eSIM comparison tool for the UAE, which offers filtering according to your specific requirements.

3. Activation via QR code: After purchase, you'll receive a QR code or activation code by email. In your phone settings, find the "Mobile Data" or "Mobile Networks" section and select "Add Data Plan" or "Add eSIM". Scan the QR code and follow the displayed instructions. If you received only an activation code, it can be easily converted to a QR code using online converters.

4. Connection configuration: In most cases, the connection will configure automatically after installation is complete. If this doesn't happen, you may need to manually enter the APN (access point) according to the provider's instructions. Also remember to activate data roaming for the eSIM profile – don't worry, you won't be charged any additional fees within your purchased package.

We recommend performing the installation and setup of your eSIM well in advance of your departure, ideally in an environment with stable Wi-Fi connection. This ensures that upon arrival in the United Arab Emirates, you'll immediately have functional internet connection without any complications. Additional useful information about initial setup can be found in our guide First eSIM | Everything from A to Z.

Tips for eSIM in the United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates offers visitors a unique combination of ultra-modern architecture, luxury shopping, desert adventures, and rich Arabian culture. Whether you're coming for business, relaxation, or as a digital nomad, reliable internet connection is key. Here are practical tips for maximizing your eSIM during your stay in this fascinating country:

Local specifics and limitations

The UAE has specific rules for using internet and communication services. Some VoIP services like Skype, FaceTime, or WhatsApp calls may be restricted or blocked. Local apps like BOTIM or C'Me are officially permitted alternatives for video calls. Check the current situation before your trip, as rules may change. Keep in mind that the UAE has strict laws regarding privacy and cybersecurity, so avoid sharing inappropriate content or criticizing local institutions online.

Efficient use of data limit

Continuous monitoring of data usage is essential, especially in the UAE where internet connection can be more expensive than in other destinations. Most eSIM providers offer their own apps for monitoring data usage. You can also set data limits directly on your phone. For maximum data savings, we recommend studying our article Saving Data on Vacation | Proven Tips and Tricks before your trip, where you'll find practical tips such as:

• Pre-downloading maps of Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other places for offline use
• Limiting the quality of multimedia content streaming
• Deactivating automatic updates and background synchronizations
• Using Wi-Fi in hotels and shopping malls for data-intensive activities

If you're unsure about what data volume to choose for your stay, check out our guide How Much Data You Need for Various Activities, which will help you select the optimal package. For precise selection, use our eSIM comparison tool, where you can filter offers by data amount and validity period exactly according to your requirements.

Communication with home

Most eSIMs for the UAE provide only data services without traditional voice calls and SMS. However, this doesn't mean you can't stay in touch with loved ones. Thanks to data connection, you can use officially supported communication apps like BOTIM, C'Me, or ToTok for free calls and messaging. To use standard apps like WhatsApp or Messenger for calling, you may need to use a VPN, which is technically possible in the UAE, but you're operating in a gray zone of local regulations. More detailed information about communication options can be found in our article Calling from a data e-SIM | How to call cheaply from abroad.

Security and payment services

Mobile banking and payment apps are widely accepted in the UAE, especially in urban areas. Services like Revolut or Wise offer favorable exchange rates for the dirham. With reliable data connection, you'll have continuous access to your finances. The security situation in the UAE is generally very good, but standard caution when using financial services online is always advisable.

Traveling around the region

Planning to visit neighboring countries too? Many providers offer regional eSIM packages for the Middle East that cover not only the UAE but also Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, and other countries in the region. These packages are usually more economical than purchasing separate eSIMs for individual countries. To find the most advantageous regional eSIM, use our eSIM comparison tool, where you can specify exactly which countries you plan to visit. Also check out our guides for neighboring destinations like Egypt or Morocco if you're planning wider travel across the region.

✈️ Expert advice: The UAE has extremely high temperatures, especially during summer months, which can cause mobile devices to overheat. Don't expose your phone to direct sunlight, e.g., on a car dashboard or at the beach. Overheating can lead to temporary device shutdown or even permanent battery damage, which would deprive you of the ability to use your eSIM.

Alternative internet connections in the UAE

eSIM technology represents the most convenient way to secure internet connection when traveling to the United Arab Emirates, but it's not the only available option. If for any reason you cannot or don't want to use eSIM, there are several alternative solutions:

Traditional physical SIM card

Local Emirati SIM cards are readily available at international airports in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, in official stores of operators Etisalat and du, as well as in some shopping malls. Both major operators offer special tourist packages that typically include data, calls, and SMS.

The main advantages of a physical SIM card lie in the possibility of getting a local phone number, which can be useful for communication with local businesses and services, and in the relatively favorable price (approximately 80-200 AED / $22-$55 for a standard tourist package). The disadvantages include the necessity of personally visiting a store after arrival, the need to present a passport for registration (the UAE has strict rules for identifying mobile service users), and possible delays when processing at busy airports.

For obtaining a local SIM card, we strongly recommend using only official operator stores to avoid problems with unregistered cards. Remember that you'll need an unlocked phone, and if you don't have a device with dual SIM support, you'll have to temporarily remove your home SIM card.

Mobile Wi-Fi hotspots

Portable Wi-Fi devices offer a practical alternative, especially for families or work groups. These compact devices create a private Wi-Fi network to which multiple devices can be connected simultaneously – from smartphones to tablets to laptops. They're ideal when traveling in a group, where otherwise each member would need their own SIM or eSIM.

In the UAE, you can rent a portable hotspot directly at the airport from companies like Connect or UAE WiFi, or reserve it online in advance. Some more luxurious hotels in Dubai and Abu Dhabi offer their guests the loan of these devices as an additional service. More detailed information about the possibilities and advantages of these devices can be found in our guide Best Portable WiFi Hotspots for Travel.

The main disadvantages of this solution are higher purchase or rental prices compared to eSIM or local SIM card, the need to regularly charge another device, and limited signal range (typically 10-15 meters), which can be limiting during activities in a larger group.

International roaming

Using the roaming services of your American operator is undoubtedly the simplest, but usually also the most expensive solution. Roaming allows you to use your existing phone number and services in the UAE without any preparation before the trip.

Prices for roaming in the UAE are exceptionally high – standard rates of American operators range between $15-25 per MB of data, which means that even brief browsing of social networks or using navigation can lead to a bill in the thousands of dollars. Some American operators offer special travel packages for the UAE that are more reasonably priced (e.g., $15-45 for 100-200 MB), but still significantly more expensive than local solutions or eSIM.

Public Wi-Fi networks

The UAE, especially Dubai and Abu Dhabi, offers extensive coverage with public Wi-Fi networks. Free Wi-Fi can be found in almost all hotels, shopping malls (such as Dubai Mall or Mall of the Emirates), restaurants, cafes, and even in some parks and beaches. The Dubai Metro and some bus lines also provide Wi-Fi connection.

Security is the main risk when using public Wi-Fi networks. Even in a relatively safe country like the UAE, unsecured networks can be exploited for cyber attacks. If you choose this option, we strongly recommend using a VPN to encrypt your connection and avoid logging into banking and other sensitive services.

Relying exclusively on public Wi-Fi means you'll be without connection when moving between individual locations, which can be problematic especially for navigation or in case of need for quick communication. Therefore, we recommend always having a backup solution for internet connection, especially if you're traveling outside the main urban areas.

Mobile networks and operators in the UAE

The United Arab Emirates has a highly developed telecommunications infrastructure with almost complete coverage of inhabited areas. Understanding the local telecommunications market will help you make an informed decision when choosing an eSIM or other connection option.

Main mobile operators in the UAE

Etisalat (Emirates Telecommunications Group) is the largest and oldest telecommunications operator in the UAE. This partially state-owned company covers approximately 99.8% of the country's inhabited territory and offers excellent quality of services. Etisalat is a pioneer in introducing new technologies and was the first in the region to launch a commercial 5G network. For visitors traveling to more remote areas, such as desert areas or the mountainous regions of Fujairah, Etisalat provides the most reliable coverage.

Du (Emirates Integrated Telecommunications Company) is the second largest operator, founded in 2006 to break Etisalat's monopoly. Du offers competitive prices and quality services primarily in urban areas. Their network is particularly strong in Dubai, where the company started, and has gradually expanded its coverage to the entire UAE. Du is often the choice of younger users and expats thanks to innovative packages and services focused on digital lifestyle.

Virgin Mobile UAE operates as a virtual operator under the du network. It offers flexible packages and simple digital access to services, which is attractive for short-term visitors. All services can be managed through a mobile application, eliminating the need to visit physical stores.

Coverage and signal quality

The quality of mobile signal in the UAE is generally excellent, especially in large cities like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah, where you can expect stable 4G and 5G connection with high speeds. Tourist areas including beaches, shopping malls, and main attractions have trouble-free coverage from both major operators.

In more remote desert areas, coverage may be limited, but main roads and popular destinations for desert safaris are usually well covered, especially by the Etisalat network. If you're planning adventures off the beaten path, such as trips to the Hajar mountains or remote beaches on the east coast, it's advisable to check coverage in advance.

For current information about coverage in specific areas of the UAE, we recommend using the official coverage maps of operators Etisalat and du, or independent services like nPerf.com, which will help you determine which operator offers the best signal in the places you plan to visit.

Which networks do eSIM providers use?

International eSIM providers collaborate with local operators to offer their services in the UAE. Here's an overview of which Emirati networks the most popular eSIM services use:

• Airalo: Uses the Etisalat network for all its packages in the UAE
• Holafly: Collaborates exclusively with Etisalat, ensuring good coverage in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and other cities and tourist destinations
• Yesim: As the only one of the main providers, offers access to both networks - Etisalat and du, providing maximum flexibility and coverage
• eSIM4Travel: Operates through the Etisalat network
• Jetpac: Uses the Etisalat network

When choosing an eSIM provider, consider your travel plans. For most regular visitors who will be moving primarily in urban and tourist areas, any provider will offer sufficient coverage. If you're planning to visit more remote places or need maximum connection certainty, Yesim with access to both main networks may be the optimal choice. For easy comparison of all available options, use our eSIM comparison tool for the UAE, which will help you find the most suitable solution according to your specific needs.

How to call from the United Arab Emirates

Maintaining contact with family, friends, or business partners is an important aspect of every trip. With an eSIM in the UAE, you have several options for communication without having to pay exorbitant amounts for international calls, but local regulations need to be taken into account.

Internet calling via data eSIM

Most eSIM packages for the UAE include only mobile data, without traditional voice services. However, the situation in the UAE is specific because many commonly used VoIP services like Skype, WhatsApp calls, or FaceTime are officially blocked or restricted, although the situation is gradually relaxing and some services may be available in certain cases.

BOTIM and C'Me are officially approved applications for internet calling in the UAE. These local alternatives allow voice and video calls via the internet and are fully legal. If you need to regularly communicate with people in the United States or elsewhere in the world, we recommend installing these apps before your trip and informing your contacts to do the same.

Microsoft Teams and Zoom are often available for business communication because the UAE supports business activities. These platforms are usually allowed, especially in business zones and office complexes, which is useful for work communication.

For more information about internet calling options and current restrictions in the UAE, we recommend our specialized article Calling from a data e-SIM | How to make and receive calls cheaply from abroad, which contains updated information about available services.

Specialized services for international calling

If you need to call regular phone numbers in the United States or elsewhere, there are specialized services that offer competitive rates for international calling and are in compliance with local regulations.

Etisalat and du offer prepaid cards for international calling with more favorable rates than standard international calls. These cards can be purchased at official operator stores, at airports, or in some supermarkets. For calling to the United States, rates are around 0.5-1 AED (approximately $0.15-0.30) per minute, which is significantly less than regular international rates.

Hello Card and One World One Touch are popular international calling cards available in the UAE that offer competitive rates for calling abroad. These services work on the principle of access numbers and PIN codes that you enter before calling an international number.

eSIM with calls and SMS

Some eSIM services are starting to offer packages that include traditional voice and SMS services in addition to data. These services work through local networks and allow you to call as with a regular SIM card.

Maya Mobile is a local eSIM service in the UAE that offers packages including calls, SMS, and data. This service is fully compliant with local regulations and provides an Emirati phone number, which can be useful for local communication, for example with hotels, restaurants, or taxi services.

Some international eSIM services like Airalo are beginning to experiment with supplementary voice services in certain countries. The availability of these services in the UAE may vary, so we recommend verifying the current offer before your trip.

Frequently asked questions about eSIM in the UAE

Summary

Traveling to the United Arab Emirates is significantly more comfortable thanks to eSIM technology. There's no need to search for physical SIM card vendors, wait in lines at the airport, or pay astronomical amounts for international roaming. You can secure your internet connection from the comfort of your home and be online practically immediately after landing in Dubai or Abu Dhabi.

In this article, we've introduced the most significant eSIM providers for the UAE, including Airalo, Holafly, Yesim, eSIM4Travel, and Jetpac. Each of these providers offers specific advantages, and the optimal choice depends on the length of your stay, planned activities, and individual data requirements.

Among the most popular data packages are 5 GB for standard use, 2 GB for short visits, 10 GB or 20 GB for longer stays, or unlimited plans for demanding users, digital nomads, or those who need to regularly stream videos or participate in video conferences.

For an economical and reliable solution, eSIM4Travel is worth considering, offering quick activation, responsive customer support, and competitive prices. Their service doesn't require installation of additional apps and allows flexible data top-ups as needed.

If you prefer unlimited data without worrying about reaching a limit, Holafly is the optimal choice with packages covering the entire length of your stay in the UAE.

For maximum coverage and flexibility, we recommend Yesim, which is the only one of the main providers offering access to both dominant networks in the UAE - Etisalat and du.

Remember that in the United Arab Emirates, specific rules apply for internet communication, and some VoIP services may be restricted. For calls and video chats, we recommend using officially approved apps like BOTIM or C'Me.

For the most accurate and up-to-date comparison of all available eSIMs for the United Arab Emirates, use our eSIM comparison tool, which allows you to filter offers by data amount, validity period, and other parameters exactly according to your individual requirements.