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: Airalo Burj Mobile Unlimited

For travelers spending a full month in the UAE, Airalo's Burj Mobile plan offers unlimited data on a local UAE network. This is a dedicated UAE-only plan with 30 days of validity, providing peace of mind for extended stays without worrying about data caps.

Airalo is one of the most established eSIM providers globally, known for reliable service and good customer support.

Data

Unlimited

Validity30 day(s)

🇦🇪 United Arab Emirates

Data only

Network(s) : Etisalat (5G)

Airalo - Burj Mobile - Unlimited

$72.50

Learn more ›

The best mid-tier option: Yesim United Arab Emirates Unlimited

Yesim offers a solid 15-day unlimited plan that's great for travelers spending 1-2 weeks in Dubai and the UAE. At a lower price point than monthly plans, this provides excellent value for typical vacation lengths.

Use code ESIMS20 for 20% off your purchase.

Data

Unlimited

Validity15 day(s)

🇦🇪 United Arab Emirates

Data only

Special Offer: 20% OFF

Yesim - United Arab Emirates

$40.37

$50.46

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The best budget option: eTravelSim Truly Unlimited Data for Dubai

For short trips or layovers, eTravelSim's 10-day unlimited plan is one of the most affordable options. While it has the shortest validity period among our recommendations, it's perfect for quick business trips or week-long vacations.

Use code ESIMSIO for 10% off.

Data

Unlimited

Validity10 day(s)

🇦🇪 United Arab Emirates

Data only

Special Offer: 10% OFF

eTravelSim - Truly Unlimited Data for Dubai 10

$34.65

$38.50

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The best regional option: Airalo Menalink Unlimited

If you're exploring multiple countries in the Middle East and North Africa region during your trip, Airalo's Menalink plan covers 13 countries including the UAE, Bahrain, Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Morocco, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Tunisia. The 7-day unlimited option works well for multi-country itineraries.

Data

Unlimited

Validity7 day(s)

13 countries

Data only

Airalo - Menalink - Unlimited

$42.00

Learn more ›

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

$15.30

$17.00

$1.53/GB

Learn more ›

Important Note on Unlimited Plans: Most "unlimited" eSIM plans have fair-use policies with daily high-speed data caps, after which speeds are throttled. Before purchasing any unlimited plan, check the provider's fair-use limits to understand exactly what you're getting.

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 choose one of its local packages or opt for a regional plan that works in several countries.

Nomad's plans for the UAE tend to be slightly more expensive than some other options, but 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?

The cost of eSIM plans for the UAE varies significantly depending on the duration and data allowance. For unlimited plans, you can expect to pay anywhere from $35 for a 10-day plan to $75+ for a 30-day plan.

Plans with limited data (1-10GB) are generally cheaper, but for most travelers, unlimited plans offer better value and peace of mind, especially in a destination like Dubai where you'll likely want to use maps, share photos, and stay connected frequently.

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.

Firsty - First Class AE - 8000MB/Day - 1 Day

Firsty

$4.01

Surf 10 GB in United Arab Emirates for 30 days

BNESIM

$9.63

Surf 20 GB in United Arab Emirates for 30 days

BNESIM

$20.06

Firsty - First Class AE - 8000MB/Day - 2 Days

Firsty

$8.03

United Arab Emirates

Redteago

$10.90

United Arab Emirates: Browse more prepaid eSIM plans

🇦🇪 United Arab Emirates: Browse more prepaid eSIM plans