If you’re visiting Dubai or planning to stay longer, getting a local SIM card is one of the first things you’ll want to sort out. With fast internet, clear calls, and easy mobile payments, having a UAE SIM makes everyday life simpler and smoother. The good news is, that buying a SIM card in Dubai is quick and hassle-free, whether you’re here as a tourist or settling in as an expat.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, step-by-step, with real prices, timelines, and tips to help you stay connected immediately.
Can Foreigners Buy SIM Cards in Dubai?
Yes, tourists and residents can easily buy SIM cards.
| Buyer Type | SIM Card Type | Validity |
| Tourist | Prepaid / Tourist SIM | Up to 90 days |
| Resident (visa holder) | Prepaid / Postpaid | Long-term |
To purchase, you must show:
- Passport (original)
- Visit visa (for tourists)
- Emirates ID (for residents)
Mobile Operators in Dubai
Dubai has 3 major mobile providers, all offering good coverage and fast 5G internet.
| Operator | Network | Notes |
| Etisalat by e& | 5G | Largest, fastest |
| du | 5G | Competitive tourist plans |
| Virgin Mobile UAE | 5G (uses du network) | Fully digital (app-based) |
Where to Buy a SIM Card?
Option 1: Airport (Instant)
- Available at Dubai International Airport (DXB), all terminals
- Shops: Etisalat, du, Virgin kiosks
- Time required: 5–10 mins
- Pros: Instant activation, no need to visit shops later
Option 2: Official Stores & Malls
- Shops: Etisalat, du stores in Dubai Mall, Mall of Emirates, etc.
- Time required: 10–20 mins
- Tip: Bring your passport and visa copy
Option 3: Online (for Residents)
- Virgin Mobile SIMs can be ordered via the app (delivered to hotel/home in 2–4 hours)
Best SIM Card Packages & Costs (2025)
Etisalat
| Plan Type | Data | Calls | Price |
| Tourist SIM | 1 GB + 5 Flexi mins | 5 mins | AED 49 (7 days) |
| Tourist SIM | 4 GB + 30 Flexi mins | 30 mins | AED 99 (14 days) |
| Prepaid Monthly | 6 GB + 60 mins | UAE calls | AED 125 / month |
du
| Plan Type | Data | Calls | Price |
| Tourist SIM | 2 GB + 40 mins | Intl/UAE | AED 49 (28 days) |
| Tourist SIM | 6 GB + 100 mins | Intl/UAE | AED 99 (28 days) |
| Prepaid Monthly | 10 GB + 100 mins | UAE calls | AED 120 / month |
Virgin Mobile
| Plan Type | Data | Calls | Price |
| Custom Plan | 7 GB + 50 mins | UAE/Intl | AED 100 / month |
| Tourist Bundle | 21 GB + 525 mins | UAE/Intl | AED 200 (30 days) |
Note: Prices as of 2025, subject to offers and seasonal promos
How to Activate Your SIM Card
- SIM is activated instantly at the point of purchase
- You’ll receive:
- UAE phone number (+971)
- SMS confirmation
- Activation time: 5–10 minutes
Tip: Make sure your phone is unlocked (not locked to another carrier) before arrival
Top-Up & Recharge Options
Topping up is easy across Dubai.
| Method | Where | Notes |
| Mobile App | Etisalat / du / Virgin apps | Card payments, instant recharge |
| Supermarkets | Carrefour, Zoom, etc. | Buy scratch cards (AED 25–100) |
| Online Banking | UAE bank apps | Linked top-ups |
| Kiosks | Malls, Metro stations | Self-service machines |
Minimum recharge is usually AED 25
Can You Keep the SIM After Tourist Visa Expires?
- Tourist SIMs automatically deactivate after 60–90 days
- If you convert to a residency visa, you can upgrade to a standard prepaid/postpaid plan and keep the number
Useful Extras (Tourists & Expats)
| Service | Cost | How to Activate |
| eSIM Support | Free (Virgin), AED 25 (Etisalat/du) | Request at store |
| International Calls | Rates from AED 0.50/min | Buy Intl Call Pack |
| WiFi UAE | Free at malls/Metro | Login with the UAE number |
| Roaming | AED 100–200 packs | Activate via app |
Final Tips Before Buying
Compare offers — Etisalat is the fastest, du often has better tourist deals.
Bring a passport — mandatory for all SIM purchases.
Check coverage — all operators have good coverage citywide.
Consider eSIM — great if you want to avoid swapping SIM cards.
Conclusion
Getting a SIM card in Dubai is fast, easy, and budget-friendly. Whether you’re here for a short visit, working remotely, or relocating for the long haul, having a local number and data plan makes everyday tasks much simpler, from booking taxis and navigating with Google Maps to staying in touch with friends and family. With plenty of options, great prices, and super-fast 5G speeds, you’ll be connected and ready to go in no time.
