One thing that can make or break your trip to Dubai is connectivity. While the city has fast and free public Wi-Fi across all malls and attractions, mobile data on your personal device can make a big difference. If you plan on visiting Dubai for a work or holiday trip, the best way to stay connected to the world around you is an eSIM.
There are several eSIM cards in Dubai that you can purchase seamlessly and we are here to tell you all the insightful details. This article will be your guiding light to buying the best eSIM for traveling to the iconic emirate of Dubai. From updated prices to the latest plans, you will find everything you need to know about eSIM connections designed specifically for visiting the UAE.
So let’s move forward and take a look at some of the best and most affordable eSIM cards in Dubai to help you go online and make local and international calls without putting a dent in your wallet.
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Latest Update on eSIMs for Dubai:
As of October 2023, the UAE’s official Telecom Regulator has ordered all online eSIM card providers to stop the sale of connections for Dubai. The domestic sales of eSIM cards in Dubai have been stopped and you can no longer purchase an eSIM online while staying in Dubai.
So, if you are already in Dubai, you wouldn’t be able to purchase an eSIM, either online or in physical stores. Therefore, it’s recommended to buy an eSIM connection before arriving in Dubai to avoid any hassle.
Best Budget eSIM Cards in Dubai
While your local SIM can be used internationally, it wouldn’t be wise to spend scores of money on high international roaming charges. Instead, you can opt for an eSIM which is cheaper, more convenient, and easier to buy.
Check out our recommendation below for the best budget-friendly eSIM cards for Dubai and go online as soon as your plane hits the ground. Scroll down to read more.
Recommendations for the Best eSIM Cards for Dubai Tourists
Tourists in Dubai cannot get their hands on eSIMs as the Government has prohibited the sellers from doing so. Only official Telecom providers such as DU and Etisalat can sell tourist SIM cards which are prepaid physical connections to be put in a mobile device.
These connections can be reliable and fast, but sometimes heavy on the pocket. If you are looking for budget-friendly options to keep your internet running all the time, then it’s better to go for an eSIM card.
A lot of eSIM card providers sell connections online for tourists traveling to Dubai. You can find some really cheap deals online and get the best value for your money. Choose from renowned eSIM card providers to avoid any surprises at the last moment.
Here are some of our recommendations for the most credible, affordable, and sought-after eSIM cards for Dubai Tourists.
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eSIM Go Card by Nomad
Cost: USD 22
Specifications:
- 10 GB data volume
- data-only eSIM card
- Does not have a phone number
- Incoming and outgoing calls/text messages aren’t supported
- Valid for use in UAE only
- 30 days validity
- 5G ready connection
- Comes down to USD 2.20 per 1 GB of data
The most affordable eSIM cards for Dubai are those by Nomad. Nomad eSIMs for UAE are cost-effective, have attractive specifications, and offer generous data volume to help tourists stay online wherever they go.
These eSIMs are 5G ready offering high-speed internet connectivity on the go. The download and upload speed lets users send holiday snaps to families back home with ease and download restaurant menus and tickets within seconds.
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Holiday World eSIM
Cost: USD39.90
Specifications
- 10GB data volume
- data-only eSIM card
- Does not come with a phone number
- Incoming and outgoing calls/text messages are not supported
- 4G/LTE connectivity
- 14 days validity
- Valid in UAE and 112 other countries
- Comes down to USD 3.99 per 1GB
To purchase a Holiday World e-SIM card for Dubai, click here.
Another good option to stay connected when traveling to Dubai is a Holiday World e-SIM card powered by SimOptions. This SIM is a bit more expensive than other similar connections but is valid in 112 countries which might be an attractive option for globe trotters who love visiting multiple countries during their trip.
SimOptions e-SIM connections are reliable and the most sought-after eSIM cards for traveling to Dubai. However, you won’t be able to make or receive any calls/text messages as the connection does not come with a phone number.
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SimOptions eSIM cards for Dubai
SimOptions is by far the only eSIM provider that sells physical prepaid SIM cards for tourists traveling to Dubai. These SIMs are pre-activated connections which you can insert in your mobile phone to use data and make calls.
SimOptions SIM cards can be ordered online and delivered straight to your chosen address. You can purchase these connections before departing on your journey towards Dubai and the SIM will connect automatically to a supported network after your arrival into the Emirate.
SimOptions has millions of users across the globe who utilize their travel-ready eSIMs for traveling to Dubai. They have a lot of affordable connections for UAE and are much more cost-effective than Airalo eSIMs.
Prices and Card Plans for SimOptions eSIM Cards in Dubai
Here is an updated list of prices and card plans by SimOptions, designed exclusively for Dubai.
- 1 GB data volume for USD 8.90= valid for 30 days
- 3 GB data volume for USD21.90= valid for 30 days
- 5 GB data volume for USD34.90= valid for 30 days
- 10 GB data volume for USD=39.90= valid for 14 days
- 10 GB data volume for USD59.90= valid for 30 days
These eSIM cards by SimOptions are by their own brand. They, however, do not explicitly mention the network operator they use for their connections in Dubai. SimOptions SIM cards are also not 5G ready but have generous validity periods and offer good data volumes to let visitors stay online on a budget.
SimOptions also powers the popular Orange Holiday World eSIM which can be used in UAE along with other 124 countries. This international eSIM is a widely used connection among frequent travelers who usually visit multiple countries during their trip.
Orange Holiday eSIM card does not come with a phone number and thus does not support calls/text messages. This connection has a one-year-long validity period. The credit validity starts from the time the SIM is installed on the device.
To order SimOptions eSIM cards in Dubai, click here.
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Airalo eSIMs in Dubai
Airalo is another reputable name in the eSIM market offering efficient and budget-friendly eSIM cards in Dubai. The company has thousands of users across the globe and is one of the most recommended eSIM card providers for the UAE.
You can purchase Airalo eSIMs seamlessly online. No passport, ID, or documentation is required for placing an order. You just have to provide a valid e-mail address when ordering your connection so that a QR code can be sent for you to scan and activate the connection on your device.
Airalo has dozens of positive reviews where users have commended the company for its reliable, consistent, cost-effective, and fast-speed connection. Airalo has many attractive eSIM card deals for Dubai travellers but their connections are somewhat expensive when compared to those of SimOptions and Nomad.
Prices for Airalo eSIM Cards in Dubai
Here are updated prices for Airalo eSIM data plans for Dubai:
- 1 GB data volume for USD8.5= valid for 7 days
- 3 GB data volume for USD22.5= valid for 30 days
- 5 GB data volume for USD35= valid for 30 days
To place orders for Airalo eSIM cards in Dubai, click here.
Airalo eSIM cards in Dubai are powered by Burj Mobile and operate on Etisalat’s 4G/LTE network. These connections do not support 5G connectivity so you would have to rely on 4G speed to use your mobile data when visiting Dubai.
Dubai has 4G/LTE signals all across the city so there wouldn’t be any problem connecting to the network. You can expect pretty good speed to browse the internet, upload your snaps, and download essential files and documents.
All Airalo eSIM cards in Dubai are data-only connections that do not support incoming and outgoing calls/text messages. Airalo SIMs must be installed within 1 month from the date of purchase and the credit validity will begin when the SIM connects to a supported network in UAE.
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Nomad eSIM Cards in Dubai
Nomad is one of the cheapest eSIM providers offering affordable card plans for Dubai-bound travelers. Their connections are 5G ready allowing users to browse the web using super-fast internet connectivity.
On my last trip to Dubai, I also used a Nomad esim card and was surprised that they were even 5G ready. Nomad has the best esim card deals for Dubai. Given their attractive deals and specifications, Nomad eSIMs are considered to be the best and most budget-friendly eSIMs for traveling to the UAE.
Prices and Plans for Nomad eSIMs for Dubai
Here is an updated list of prices and plans for Nomad eSIMs for the UAE
- 1 GB data volume for USD8= valid for 7 days
- 3 GB data volume for USD11= valid for 30 days
- 5 GB data volume for USD13= valid for 30 days
- 10 GB data volume for USD22= valid for 30 days
Joytel powers nomad eSIM cards in Dubai. These data-only connections are 5G ready and operate on Etisalat’s mobile data network. As these SIMs do not have a phone number, you wouldn’t be able to make or receive calls and text messages.
Nomad eSIM cards come down to as low as USD2.2 per 1 GB which seems a lot cheaper than local prepaid SIM cards for Dubai. These connections must be installed within 30 days from the date of purchase and after successful installation, the credit validity will begin from the time the SIM connects to a supported network in UAE.
For further details and to place orders for Nomad eSIM cards for Dubai, click here.
What is the cheapest eSIM card for travelling to Dubai?
If you’re on the lookout for an affordable eSIM card, consider the Nomad eSIM card priced at a pocket-friendly USD 8. With this option, you’ll enjoy 1 GB of data for a duration of 7 days. Alternatively, Airalo provides a comparable deal at USD 8.5. It’s important to note that both these eSIMs are exclusively designed for use in Dubai and do not support incoming and outgoing calls/text messages.
Why Order an eSIM card in Dubai?
Ordering an eSIM card for Dubai proves advantageous for various reasons. Firstly, it offers cost-effective solutions with competitive pricing and customizable data plans, catering to the specific needs of users for short-term visits or extended stays.
The convenience factor comes into play as the process is swift, eliminating the necessity of physically visiting a store. The flexibility of eSIM cards allows users to choose plans that align with their data requirements, promoting adaptability.
Additionally, the absence of a physical card reduces the risk of misplacement or damage during travel. Quick activation and global compatibility make eSIMs a hassle-free option for instant connectivity in Dubai and other destinations
Overall, the benefits of affordability, convenience, flexibility, and security make ordering an eSIM card for Dubai a practical and efficient choice for individuals seeking seamless and reliable mobile connectivity.
Where to buy an eSIM card in Dubai?
To purchase an eSIM card for Dubai, the most convenient and accessible option is to explore reputable online platforms that specialize in virtual SIM card services. Numerous providers offer eSIM cards in Dubai, allowing users to browse and compare plans on their websites.
Popular mobile carriers, travel SIM card providers, or dedicated eSIM platforms often feature straightforward purchasing processes directly on their online portals.
Visitors to the UAE are now unable to purchase eSIMs online or in physical stores. Instead, the sole available option for tourists is to acquire physical prepaid cards designed for tourists.
The shift in policy, effective from the beginning of 2024, signifies that as a tourist, the only viable avenue for securing an eSIM is to place an order before arriving in Dubai.
This adjustment encourages visitors to plan and arrange their mobile connectivity in advance, ensuring a smooth and seamless experience upon reaching their destination in the UAE.
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