How to Buy a SIM Card at Dubai Airport in 2024

Today staying connected while traveling has become more important than ever. Whether you're looking to share your adventures on social media, navigate the city, or simply stay in touch with friends and family back home, reliable mobile connectivity is essential. For tourists arriving in Dubai, purchasing a local SIM card at the airport is a smart choice that can save you time, money, and hassle.

Dubai Airport is one of the busiest international airports in the world, welcoming millions of travelers each year. With a wide range of options for mobile connectivity, it’s convenient for visitors to get set up right upon arrival. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of purchasing a SIM card at Dubai Airport, answering common questions and providing tips to ensure a smooth experience.

This article aims to serve as your go-to guide for purchasing a SIM card at Dubai Airport. We’ll outline the necessary steps, highlight the available options, and address common questions that travelers may have about the process, like where to buy a SIM card in Dubai airport, is SIM card available in Dubai Airport and how to buy a SIM card in Dubai Airport. Ready to get started? Let’s dive into the steps to buy a SIM card when you arrive at Dubai Airport.

Where to buy a SIM card in Dubai Airport

In the UAE, telecommunications services are provided by only 3 monopoly companies – Etisalat, du and Virgin Mobile. The first company is the largest on the market, the second has been operating relatively recently, but has already won the trust of local residents and tourists. Arriving in the Emirates, all travelers rush to buy a SIM card so as not to be left without communication and Internet access.

You can buy a SIM card in Dubai:

• at the Dubai airport, after getting off the plane. Cellular connection services are provided in all terminals, you can find several airport sim card kiosks there as well,
• at any cellular communication store that you come across on the way to the hotel,
• in shopping and entertainment centers or on the street in souvenir tents.

Whichever way you choose, you can find all these 3 operators there.

Read also: How to get mobile internet in the UAE: SIM cards and other options

Types of SIM card packages available

When you arrive at Dubai Airport, you’ll find several options for Dubai SIM card packages, with the two main telecommunications providers being Etisalat and du. Virgin Mobile also offers options through the du network.

Etisalat

Etisalat is one of the leading telecommunications providers in the UAE, known for its extensive coverage and high-speed internet.

Etisalat provides an extensive selection of prepaid and postpaid plans tailored to meet diverse needs. Among the most sought-after postpaid options are:

• Plan 125: Priced at AED 125 ($34), this plan offers 4GB of data, 100 Flexi minutes for both local and international calls, and 100 hours of Wi-Fi access.
• Plan 260: For AED 260 ($71), enjoy 20GB of local data, 250MB of roaming data, 600 flexible minutes for local and international calls, and unlimited calls to one preferred number.
• Non-Stop Data Plan 250: Ideal for heavy data users, this plan provides unlimited local data, 200MB of roaming data, and 500 Flexi minutes for AED 250 ($68) per month.

For those looking to optimize their budget, Etisalat offers prepaid SIM card Dubai plans that feature double data across all options, allowing you to select the GB and minutes that best suit your needs.

du

du is another major telecommunications provider in the UAE, offering competitive rates and plans for visitors. Emirates Integrated Telecommunications Company Emirates Integrated Telecommunications Company, rebranded as du, was established in the UAE in 2007 and has since become a leading provider of mobile, fixed-line, internet, and digital TV services throughout the country.

For tourists visiting Dubai, the Tourist du SIM card is a convenient option to ensure seamless connectivity during your stay. The easiest way to obtain your SIM card is by picking one up for free at the immigration counter upon your arrival at Dubai Airport. This welcome package includes a complimentary 1GB of data, valid for 24 hours once the SIM card is activated.

If you prefer using an eSIM, you can easily switch after collecting your physical SIM card. Simply visit a nearby du store, and they will assist you in transferring your service to an eSIM.

You won't need to activate the free Tourist SIM card upon arrival, as it's already pre-registered with your passport details. However, to start using the service, just follow a few simple steps:

• Insert the SIM card into your phone.
• You will receive a confirmation SMS from 1220 requesting your year of birth.
• After providing this information, you'll be credited with 1GB of local data for free for 24 hours.
• You’ll receive an activation SMS. To access services, dial 135, select your preferred language, and you’re ready to go!

After the initial 24-hour period, your local data will expire, but you can easily top up your SIM card with one of du’s attractive travel packages:

• 2GB of data + 30 minutes for local and international calls for just AED 49 (approximately US$13) for 28 days.
• 20GB of data + 30 minutes of calls, plus unlimited voice and video calls over the internet for AED 189 (around US$52) for 28 days.
• If you need unlimited data for a short duration, there's a 10-day package available for AED 299 (about US$81).
• Unlimited data + 100 flexi minutes for 7 days for 199 AED ($54 USD)
• Unlimited data + 200 flexi minutes for 14 days for 299 AED ( $81 USD)
• Unlimited data + 400 flexi minutes for 28 days for 499 AED ($136 USD)

The complimentary SIM card will remain valid for as long as your visa allows, up to a maximum of 90 days, or until you depart the UAE. Please note that the tourist SIM card cannot be transferred to a different plan or operator.

If, for some reason, you do not receive your SIM card at the passport control, you can still purchase one at any du store. Individual SIM cards are available for AED 10 (around US$3), or you can get one for free when you select a package starting from AED 49 (approximately US$13). If your SIM card happens to get lost, you can conveniently replace it at any du store as well.

Virgin Mobile

Virgin Mobile operates on the du network, providing users with straightforward SIM card options and customizable packages. They offer a variety of prepaid and postpaid plans tailored to meet the needs of both residents and visitors. If you're planning a trip to the UAE, consider the Virgin Mobile Tourist SIM card, which provides a convenient way to stay connected with local and international minutes, as well as data packages available for 7, 10, or 15 days.

You can conveniently collect your SIM card upon arrival at the airport. Please note that the tourist plan is a one-time-use offering, meaning it cannot be extended. Additionally, this plan is only available for purchase with a passport or GCC ID—Emirates ID holders are not eligible. Here’s a breakdown of the Tourist SIM card packages:

• 7-Day Package: 21 GB for AED 150 (approximately $41)
• 10-Day Package: 40 GB for AED 200 (approximately $55)
• 15-Day Package: 75 GB with free internet calls for AED 300 (approximately $82)

All packages include 30 local minutes/SMS for added convenience. If you're unsure which package suits you best, Virgin Mobile offers starter plans to help you get started:

• AED 35 (approximately $10): 0.50 GB + 0.25 GB and 25 local minutes/SMS
• AED 50 (approximately $14): 0.75 GB + 0.75 GB and 50 local minutes/SMS

You can easily customize your plan according to your specific needs by adding additional minutes and data. Should you require more, upgrading your plan is a seamless process through the app.

For those seeking extensive usage, an unlimited data package with 50 local minutes/SMS is available for AED 6,000 ($1,630) if paid annually upfront, compared to AED 12,000 ($3,270) for a standard monthly payment plan of AED 1,000 ($272).

Moreover, you have the flexibility to pause your monthly plan at any time for your desired duration. However, please note that the 6 - and 12-month plans can only be resumed during the final month of use.

When purchasing a SIM card at Dubai Airport, you have multiple options, each with its own unique features tailored for tourists. Whether you prefer Etisalat, du, or Virgin Mobile, you can find a package that fits your communication needs and budget. Be sure to compare prices and features before making a decision to ensure you have the best connectivity during your stay in Dubai.

How to buy a SIM card in Dubai Airport

So, how to get a SIM card in Dubai Airport? To buy a SIM card at Dubai Airport, you'll find several kiosks and stores conveniently located within the terminal. Before you proceed, make sure to have your passport and a valid UAE visa on hand, as these documents are required for the purchase.

Once you arrive at the airport, look for the telecommunications providers such as Etisalat or du, which typically have dedicated counters. The staff will assist you in selecting a plan that suits your needs, whether you're looking for data, local calls, or international calling options.

After you've chosen your SIM card, you'll need to fill out a registration form, which is a standard procedure in the UAE. The process is usually quick and straightforward, allowing you to start using your new SIM card almost immediately.

Additionally, it's a good idea to compare different plans and prices to ensure you're getting the best deal for your stay. Keep in mind that activating your SIM card may take just a few minutes, so you can stay connected as soon as you leave the airport. Enjoy your time in Dubai!

SIM card prices at Dubai Airport

We have created a comprehensive overview of available prepaid SIM card options for tourists in Dubai from three primary service providers: Du, Etisalat, and Virgin Mobile.

This information about SIM card prices at Dubai Airport aims to assist tourists in selecting the most suitable SIM card option based on their communication needs and budget during their stay in the UAE.

Benefits of buying a SIM card at Dubai Airport

When traveling to Dubai, one of the first things you might consider is how to stay connected. Buying a mobile SIM card at Dubai Airport offers several advantages:

• Immediate Connectivity: Upon arrival, you can quickly purchase a SIM card, ensuring that you're connected as soon as you step out of the airport. This is particularly beneficial for navigating transportation options, finding accommodations, or staying in touch with family and friends.
• Convenience: With dedicated kiosks and stores from major telecom providers like Etisalat and du located within the terminal, purchasing a tourist SIM card Dubai is hassle-free. You can avoid the stress of searching for a store outside the airport after a long flight.
• Variety of Plans: Airport kiosks typically offer a range of prepaid plans and you can buy a local SIM card tailored for tourists, including options for data, local calls, and international calling. This allows you to choose a plan that best fits your needs without any long-term commitments.
• Quick Activation: The process of buying and activating a SIM card at the airport is usually swift, allowing you to start using your mobile service within minutes. Staff members are available to assist you with setup and ensure that everything works smoothly.

Moreover purchasing from official airport vendors reduces the risk of scams or purchasing counterfeit products. You can trust that you're getting a legitimate SIM card with reliable service.

Alternative options: buying a eSIM to always stay connected

While buying a SIM card at Dubai Airport is convenient, there are alternative options available outside the airport that may offer different benefits, e.g. lower prices and more choices of data plans. For instance, in addition to traditional physical SIM cards, travelers can consider using an eSIM (embedded SIM) from Yesim as a modern and convenient alternative. Here are some key points to consider:

• Convenience and Flexibility: An eSIM allows you to activate a mobile plan without needing a physical SIM card. This means you can switch carriers or data plans easily through your device settings, making it ideal for travelers who may need different services during their stay.
• Instant Activation: Many eSIM providers offer instant activation. You can purchase a data plan online before your trip or upon arrival in Dubai and activate it immediately on your device, eliminating the need to find a store.
• Multiple Profiles: eSIM technology supports multiple profiles, allowing you to maintain your home number while also having a local number for data and calls. This is particularly useful for keeping in touch with family while exploring local options.
• No Physical Card Needed: Since eSIMs are embedded in your device, you won't have to worry about losing a physical SIM card or dealing with the hassle of swapping cards when you travel.
• Wide Compatibility: Many newer smartphones, tablets, and wearables support eSIM technology. Before traveling, check if your device is compatible to take advantage of this option.
• Data Plans from Various Providers: Several companies offer eSIM data plans specifically designed for travelers, often providing competitive rates and flexible data packages tailored to short-term use.
• Environmentally Friendly: Using an eSIM reduces plastic waste associated with traditional SIM cards, making it a more sustainable choice for environmentally conscious travelers.

The best eSIM in Dubai presents a modern solution for staying connected while traveling in Dubai. If your device supports eSIM technology, consider exploring this option for a seamless travel experience.

Read also: Which mobile phones support eSIM?

Yesim data plans for the OAE

Yesim offers data plans for seamless mobile internet access across major cities in the United Arab Emirates, including Dubai, Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, Umm Al Quwain, and Madinat Zayed.

Yesim data plans are designed for a diverse range of users, from travelers seeking all-inclusive vacation packages to tourists and backpackers exploring the region. Digital nomads and remote workers will find reliable connectivity, while bloggers and broadcasters can share their experiences effortlessly. Business professionals needing mobile internet for work and families on holiday trips will also benefit from our services.

With Yesim, you can enjoy features like a VPN for secure browsing and tethering options (subject to carrier support). Your cellular data can be utilized for international internet calls (online only), web browsing, audio and video broadcasting, text messaging (SMS), voicemail access, and downloading or uploading files. Stay connected effortlessly during your time in the UAE with Yesim data plans!

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Stay connected in Dubai

The decision to buy a SIM card at Dubai Airport or explore options outside depends on your priorities. If immediate connectivity and convenience are essential, purchasing at the airport is an excellent choice. However, if you're looking to save money or explore more options, checking local shops or choosing an eSIM card could be worthwhile. Regardless of your choice, staying connected during your travels in Dubai will enhance your experience and keep you informed every step of the way.

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