The 6 Best Prepaid eSIM Plans for Dubai and the UAE (2024)

Miles of gorgeous beaches, the impressive Arabian desert, and some of the world's tallest buildings – the UAE really seems to have it all. The country, with its slick, modern cities, is full of exciting things to do and see, which is why it's no surprise it's become a beloved travel destination for many.

If there's one thing the UAE is particularly known for, it's the opulent and luxurious lifestyle. In fact, it's no secret that the country is one of the most expensive destinations on the globe. Even if you're not planning on indulging in high-end shopping, dining, and entertainment, you'll find money goes quickly here.

And, as you can guess, roaming charges when using your local (foreign) SIM can be pretty high, too.

Thankfully, there is a solution that allows you to stay connected during your adventures without breaking the bank. We're talking about eSIMs, aka virtual SIMs, a form of SIM card that's embedded directly into your device (as long as your device is compatible with it - see below for the list).

In the article below, we've narrowed down the best eSIM plans for your next vacation in the UAE. 

The best eSIM plans and providers for Dubai and the UAE

✅ The best pick overall: Airhub UAE 20GB 30 days plan

If you're familiar with the eSIM market, you've probably heard about Airhub. The company is well known for its great eSIMs and is one of our favorites. When traveling to the UAE, the best option that includes plenty of data and a reasonable expiration date is their plan 'UAE 20GB 30 Days'.

Compared to its peers, Airhub offers excellent value for a good price, and this plan is no exception! It has just enough data to ensure you can browse through all your favorite sites and get in touch with your loved ones back home.

Data

20 GB

Validity30 day(s)

🇦🇪 United Arab Emirates

Data only

Airhub - UAE 20GB 30Days

$35.00

$1.75/GB

Learn more ›

The best cheap options: Jetpac & Airhub

Jetpac is less recognized than other brands on the market, but it's a smart pick if you're looking for the lowest price. With its eSIM plan 'Globetrotter 1GB', you'll get access to 1GB of data that should be used up within four days. What's great is that this is a global eSIM plan, meaning it will work in 98 countries – not just the UAE.

Although 1GB of data may seem small, for the price you pay ($1), you can't really complain.

While you won't be able to spend hours browsing through Instagram or TikTok, the data will be enough to update your friends and family on your whereabouts.

To start using this eSIM, you'll have to download Jetpack's app. Within it, you'll be able to track how much data you've used up and top up, if necessary.

We think that although it's really light, this plan will be great for very short trips, or layovers !

Data

1 GB

Validity4 day(s)

100 countries

Data only

Jetpac - Global 1GB

$1.00

$1.00/GB

Learn more ›

If you need a bit more data, the next best option is Airhub's plan 'UAE 2GB 7Days'. It's slightly more expensive but also has a longer duration. 

Unfortunately, Airhub's plan works only in one country. If you're planning on exploring nearby destinations, you'll have to choose a different provider.

The best eSIM plans with the most data: Jetpac's 'Nomad' plan

Jetpac doesn't just offer the cheapest eSIM plan for the UAE.

They are also our top recommendation for travelers who need more data. With their plan 'Nomad,' you'll be able to use 30GB of data in 98 different countries. While it's not the most affordable plan, it will allow you to explore the UAE, as well as other worldwide countries, with peace of mind.

The best option with voice minutes: GlobaleSIM 'Dubai, Abu Dhabi & UAE'

When traveling internationally, having voice minutes included in your eSIM plan can reduce or eliminate roaming charges, making calls more affordable. If you're looking for an eSIM that will allow you to make calls, we recommend choosing GlobaleSIM and its package 'Dubai, Abu Dhabi & UAE.'

What we like about this plan is that you can select your preferred phone number (either USA, Canada, or United Kingdom).

Data

10 GB

Validity30 day(s)

🇦🇪 United Arab Emirates

Data and Phone number*

Special Offer: 10% OFF

GlobaleSIM - Dubai, Abu Dhabi & UAE

$11.88

$13.20

$1.19/GB

Learn more ›

How can you buy an eSIM in Dubai ?

The process of buying an eSIM in Dubai and in the UAE is slightly different from that in other countries.

That's because in October 2023, the UAE Telecom Regulator demanded that all domestic sales of eSIM cards be stopped.

What does this mean for you? If you're already in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or any other city in the UAE, you won't be able to purchase an eSIM (unless you're using a VPN). For this reason, you should buy your chosen eSIM plan before you hop on a flight to the country. This will also allow you to be online as soon as your plane has landed.

eSIM for the UAE and Dubai : FAQ

Does Nomad eSIM work in the UAE?

Absolutely! Nomad is known to be one of the biggest eSIM providers in the world. For your adventure in the UAE, you can either choose one of its local packages (for example, 'Local United Arab Emirates - 30 Days - 10 GB' for $21) or opt for a regional plan that works in several countries (like 'Regional Middle East - 30 Days - 5 GB').

Nomad's plans for the UAE are a bit more expensive than other options, and that's why we didn't include them on our best list. However, if you're looking for a reliable eSIM with excellent customer service, you won't be disappointed.

How much does an eSIM cost in the UAE?

Although the UAE is recognized as an expensive travel destination, the eSIM plans for this country are surprisingly affordable. When looking through the options on esims.io, you'll find there are eSIMs that cost only one dollar (yes, you read that correctly).

The cheaper plans usually have less data, but if you're not planning to use the internet often, they will work just fine.

Is my device compatible with an eSIM?

Although eSIMs have been around for a couple of years now, in many countries, they are still considered a relatively new technology. If you're wondering whether your device supports eSIMs, you can take a look at the article here, where we've listed all phones that are eSIM compatible.

Generally, if you purchased your device in the last couple of years, it should allow the use of eSIMs. Moreover, many laptops, tablets, smartwatches, and car infotainment systems are compatible, too.

Can I make phone calls with an eSIM from Dubai?

The answer to this question depends on the eSIM plan you choose. Right now, most eSIM providers offer data-only packages, which means you won't be able to make phone calls, or you'll have to do it through your regular network provider, which can result in high calling charges.

However, there are some options available (like GlobaleSIM) that will allow you to do it.

Is eSIM available with Etisalat for tourists ?

Etisalat is the largest telecommunications corporation in the Middle East, which also offers eSIMs. However, their eSIM plans are only available for local clients. If you're visiting the UAE for a vacation or short trip, it won't be cost-effective to choose their services.

Is eSIM for travelers offered by Dubai ?

Same as for Etisalat, Du, the second largest operator in the United Arab Emirates does not offer eSIM plans for tourits.

Conclusion

When choosing an eSIM for traveling to the UAE, there are several aspects to consider. How much are you willing to pay? Will you have Wi-Fi access (and therefore won't need as much data)?

Do you need a plan that allows you to make phone calls? To make the best decision, we recommend taking advantage of the esims.io search tool, which will enable you to filter eSIM plans based on factors like these. Purchasing an eSIM for your UAE adventure means you'll enjoy seamless connectivity, plus you'll get to save some money.

United Arab Emirates

Yesim

$28.43

Firsty First Class

Firsty

$4.74

Global 1GB

Jetpac

$1.00

MENA 1GB

Jetpac

$1.00

United Arab Emirates

Yesim

$22.11

United Arab Emirates: Browse more prepaid eSIM plans

🇦🇪 United Arab Emirates: Browse more prepaid eSIM plans