Obtaining a SIM card is one of the first things you should do upon arrival in Dubai. It’s the easiest way to stay connected, avoid high roaming charges and access maps without relying on Wi-Fi. But how to get a SIM card in Dubai, and what are the best providers?
Whether you are visiting as a tourist or relocating for work, the process is quick and convenient. With providers like Etisalat, du, and Virgin Mobile, you can find a plan that suits your needs. Please scroll down to learn more about different SIM providers and their packages.
- Where to Get a SIM Card in Dubai
- How to Get a SIM Card in Dubai as a Tourist
- How to Get a SIM Card in Dubai as a Resident
- Etisalat SIM Card
- du SIM Card
- Virgin Mobile SIM Card
- Key Takeaways
- FAQs
Where to Get a SIM Card in Dubai
If you are wondering how to obtain a SIM card in Dubai, the good news is that itis relatively simple. Here are the different locations where you can get a SIM card:
- Dubai International Airport is the easiest spot to pick up a SIM as kiosks are right inside the terminals.
- Authorised mobile operator outlets in malls and busy commercial areas offer SIM cards.
- Some supermarkets also sell SIM cards for added convenience.
- Most providers offer eSIMs that can be purchased online.
The most common providers are Etisalat, du and Virgin Mobile. Each of them offers prepaid and postpaid options with packages that cover calls, texts and data. If you are looking for the best SIM card in Dubai, it typically depends on your budget and the amount of data you require.
How to Get a SIM Card in Dubai as a Tourist
Looking to buy a SIM card in Dubai as a tourist? Anyone over 18 can obtain a tourist SIM card in Dubai by presenting their passport and visa.
If you are curious about how to get a free SIM card in Dubai, du offers one to new arrivals. At Dubai International Airport, immigration officers hand out free SIM cards in partnership with du. The complimentary pack includes 1 GB of data valid for 24 hours. After that, you can easily recharge and select a plan that suits your needs during your stay.
Additionally, you can buy SIMs from mobile shops and malls if you prefer a wider choice of packages.
How to Get a SIM Card in Dubai as a Resident
For anyone moving to Dubai, getting a mobile connection is one of the first essentials. As a resident, you can walk into any official SIM card shop in Dubai with your Emirates ID and choose from prepaid or postpaid plans. The choice depends on how much data, calls and flexibility you need.
If you have just arrived and are still waiting for your residency documents, you can start with a tourist SIM. Etisalat, du, and Virgin Mobile offer these options, which can later be converted into resident packages.
Etisalat SIM Card
Etisalat is one of the largest telecom providers in the UAE, popular among both tourists and residents. For visitors, the operator offers a Visitor Line prepaid package that ensures instant connectivity. Etisalat provides different options to match customer needs:
- Data with Wi-Fi packs is ideal for business-related visits.
- Voice and SMS packs suited for family trips or leisure stays.
- Combined bundles offering data, voice and SMS for tourists and business travellers.
Etisalat is also recognised for having the fastest mobile network in the UAE. With an average 4G download speed of about 46.3 Mbps, the service is nearly twice the global average. Whether you want smooth streaming, gaming or uploading large files, Etisalat’s strong coverage and speed make it a reliable choice.
Visitor Line Packages
The Visitor Line packages include data and voice minutes. Here are the best ones for tourists:
| Pack | Price With VAT | Local Data | Flexi Minutes (Local and International) | Validity |
| Visitor Line Premium | AED 119.04 + 5% VAT | 13GB | 120 | 28 days |
| Visitor Line Premium + | AED 190.47 + 5% VAT | 22.5 GB | 525 | 28 days |
| Visitor Line Unlimited | AED 303.81 + 5% VAT | Unlimited | 300 | 14 days |
| Visitor Line Unlimited Data | AED 190.46 + 5% VAT | Unlimited | 100 | 7 days |
du SIM Card
Du is another primary telecom provider in the UAE and a popular choice for both residents and tourists. If you are wondering how to get a SIM card in Dubai with du, the process is quick and straightforward. You can even pre-book online to save time and enjoy extra benefits.
Easily purchase or collect your du SIM card from several convenient locations, including:
- Dubai International Airport (DXB) arrivals.
- Major shopping centres, such as the Dubai Mall and the Mall of the Emirates.
- Selected hotels, travel shops and convenience stores across the city.
du Account Management
Du offers tourist SIMs as well as prepaid and postpaid plans. Managing your account is simple:
- Du SIM card registration can be completed at stores or online with your Emirates ID.
- Du balance check is available via USSD codes, the mobile app or the website.
- Du balance transfer allows you to share credit with friends or family within the UAE.
Tourism SIM Card Packages
Tourists can benefit from the following internet and call packages:
| Price | Data | Local and International Minutes | Validity |
| AED 49 | 4GB | 30 | 28 days |
| AED 99 | 10GB | 60 | 28 days |
| AED 139 | 15GB | 60 | 28 days |
| AED 189 | 20GB | 60 | 28 days |
Virgin Mobile SIM Card
Virgin Mobile is another well-known provider in the UAE, offering flexible options for both residents and tourists. Here’s all you need to know:
Features of Virgin Mobile
Virgin Mobile stands out with:
- Fast 5G network with nationwide coverage.
- Instant activation with UAE PASS.
- eSIM availability or delivery of a physical SIM within 60 minutes.
- Cashback rewards and flexible payment options.
Virgin Mobile Plans for Residents
For residents, Virgin Mobile provides prepaid phone plans that can be customised to suit individual needs. Options include:
- Monthly, 6-month or 12-month packages.
- Significant savings on long-term plans with discounts of up to 50%.
- Flexible bundles for calls, SMS and data usage.
Tourist Plans
Visitors can choose a Virgin Mobile SIM card designed for short stays. Here are the different tourist plans offered by Virgin Mobile:
| Plan | Price With VAT | Validity | Limit | Mins/SMS (Local) | Mins/SMS International |
| Unlimited Data | AED 99 + 5% VAT | 3 days | Unlimited GB | – | – |
| 21GB Data | 142.86 + 5% VAT | 7 days | 3GB per day | 30 | 20 |
| 40GB Data | AED 190.48 + 5% VAT | 10 days | 4GB per day | 30 | 20 |
| Unlimited Data | AED 199 + 5% VAT | 10 days | Unlimited GB | – | – |
| Unlimited Data | AED 261.90 + 5% VAT | 15 days | Unlimited GB | 30 | 20 |
How to Get Started
Setting up a Virgin Mobile connection is easy:
- Download the Virgin Mobile app (Play Store | App Store).
- Pick a plan that suits your stay or lifestyle.
- Once you receive your Emirates ID, update it directly in the app.
Key Takeaways
Staying connected in Dubai is easy, whether you’re a tourist or a resident. Knowing how to get a SIM card in Dubai helps you access affordable data, calls and messaging without hassle. Tourists can claim a free SIM at the airport, while residents need their Emirates ID for registration.
Etisalat, du and Virgin Mobile are the leading providers, each offering packages to suit different needs and budgets. From prepaid tourist options to long-term discounted plans, there is something for everyone.
FAQs
You can obtain a SIM card at Dubai International Airport immediately after immigration or from authorised stores in the city. Major malls, supermarkets and business centres also have outlets where you can easily purchase a SIM.
Etisalat and du are the most popular providers, while Virgin Mobile is also a good option.
Yes, tourists can obtain a temporary SIM card by presenting their passport and visa. However, residents need a valid Emirates ID to register for long-term plans.
Etisalat SIM card registration can be done at any Etisalat store or online using your Emirates ID. You provide your details and complete the verification process.
You need to recharge your Indian number with an international roaming pack before travel. Once you land in Dubai, roaming services activate automatically when you use the SIM.
Now you know how to get a SIM card in Dubai. Whether you’re travelling for work or leisure, staying connected is hassle-free. Get a SIM card from popular providers like Etisalat, du and Virgin Mobile and enjoy affordable packages.
Planning to relocate to Dubai? Explore more about visa types, transportation and accommodation here.
