Whether you are connecting through Dubai International, spending a week in Abu Dhabi or working from a hotel in Sharjah, a GetSimfinity eSIM for the UAE gets you online without queueing at an airport kiosk. Buy the plan, scan the QR code and connect to the Etisalat network the moment you land.
Why use an eSIM in the UAE
Airport SIM counters and hotel SIMs work, but they cost time and often come as fixed bundles you did not choose. An eSIM moves the whole process online. You pick the data and the number of days you need, install it from a QR code, and your phone connects when you arrive.
- No queue on arrival. Install it on Wi-Fi before you leave and skip the kiosk.
- Your home number stays on. Keep your regular SIM for verification codes and calls from family while the eSIM carries your data.
- Plans sized to your trip. From a one-week plan for a layover to a 30-day plan for a longer stay, plus daily Unlimited plans.
- Rechargeable. You can top up online if your trip runs longer than planned.
These eSIMs are data-only and run on the Etisalat network in the United Arab Emirates, with 5G data. There is no local phone number, so you use apps for messaging and calling.
A note on calling apps: some voice and video calling apps can be restricted in the UAE whichever SIM or eSIM you use. Messaging, maps, ride-hailing and email work normally. If you rely on voice calls, keep your home SIM available or use a service that is permitted in the UAE.
UAE eSIM plans and prices
The table is pulled live from our shop, so prices (in US dollars) are always current. Pick a plan to see the details and check out.
| Plan | Data | Validity | Network | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burj Mobile 1 GB - 7 days | 1 GB | 7 days | Etisalat 5G | $4.00 |
| Burj Mobile 2 GB - 15 days | 2 GB | 15 days | Etisalat 5G | $7.00 |
| Burj Mobile 3 GB - 30 days | 3 GB | 30 days | Etisalat 5G | $9.00 |
| Burj Mobile 5 GB - 30 days | 5 GB | 30 days | Etisalat 5G | $12.00 |
| Burj Mobile 10 GB - 30 days | 10 GB | 30 days | Etisalat 5G | $20.00 |
| Burj Mobile 20 GB - 30 days | 20 GB | 30 days | Etisalat 5G | $34.00 |
| Burj Mobile 50 GB - 30 days | 50 GB | 30 days | Etisalat 5G | $78.00 |
| Burj Mobile Unlimited - 3 days | Unlimited | 3 days | Etisalat 5G | $12.50 |
| Burj Mobile Unlimited - 5 days | Unlimited | 5 days | Etisalat 5G | $19.00 |
| Burj Mobile Unlimited - 7 days | Unlimited | 7 days | Etisalat 5G | $27.50 |
| Burj Mobile Unlimited - 10 days | Unlimited | 10 days | Etisalat 5G | $35.00 |
| Burj Mobile Unlimited - 15 days | Unlimited | 15 days | Etisalat 5G | $49.00 |
All plans are 5G data-only eSIMs on the Etisalat network, made for travelers visiting the United Arab Emirates.
Fixed data or Unlimited?
Fixed-data plans are the better value for most visitors. A 1 GB plan lasts a week of maps, messaging and email. The 5 GB and 10 GB plans cover navigation, ride-hailing and social media across a longer trip, and the 20 GB and 50 GB plans suit remote work, frequent video calls and sharing data with a laptop.
Unlimited plans are sold by the day, from 3 to 15 days. They make sense when you stream, upload large files or simply do not want to think about data during a short, busy trip. Check the plan page for fair-use details first.
How to install your UAE eSIM
- Confirm compatibility. Your phone needs eSIM support and must be unlocked.
- Order your plan. Your eSIM activation details, including a QR code, arrive after checkout.
- Install the eSIM. iPhone: Settings, Cellular (or Mobile Service), Add eSIM, then scan the code. Android: Settings, Network and internet, SIMs, Add eSIM. The exact wording differs between brands.
- Name the line. Call it UAE so it is easy to spot.
- Connect on arrival. Choose the eSIM for mobile data, enable data roaming on that line if prompted, and switch mobile data off on your home SIM.
Installing at home on Wi-Fi is the easiest route, because you can fix any issue before you board.
Compatible phones
Most iPhones from the XS and XR (2018) onward, Google Pixel 3 and newer, and many recent Samsung Galaxy phones support eSIM. Phones sold in some regions, such as mainland China, may not include eSIM, and a phone locked to a carrier can reject a third-party eSIM. Run our Compatibility Checker before buying.
UAE eSIM FAQ
Will I get a UAE phone number?
No. These plans are data-only, so there is no local number or SMS. Use messaging apps for chat and keep your home SIM for your regular number.
Which network will my phone use?
The plans connect to the Etisalat network in the United Arab Emirates. Coverage and speed vary by location, as with any network.
Can I use the eSIM for a short Dubai layover?
Yes. Install it before you leave and use a small plan such as the 1 GB option for maps, messaging and ride-hailing during your stop.
Does it work in other Gulf countries?
These plans are made for travelers visiting the United Arab Emirates. For Saudi Arabia, choose a plan from our Saudi Arabia eSIM page instead.
Can I add more data later?
Yes. The plans are rechargeable online, and the plan page shows how.
Plan your connection
See the full UAE eSIM destination page, heading on to Saudi Arabia? Read our eSIM for Saudi Arabia guide.