Can I use VoIP apps such as WhatsApp calls in the UAE with the eSIM?

In the UAE, VoIP calls through apps such as WhatsApp, FaceTime or Skype are regulated by the state and partly restricted. WhatsApp text messages and data services work without problems. For calls, we recommend checking before your trip which apps are currently available in the UAE, as the rules change from time to time.

Does the eSIM work in all seven emirates?

Yes. The Etisalat network covers all seven emirates, from Dubai and Abu Dhabi through Sharjah, Ajman and Umm al-Quwain to Fujairah and Ras al-Khaimah. Even in the desert and on remote beaches you usually get a stable 4G signal.

Do I need a plug adapter for the UAE?

Yes. In the UAE the British Type G sockets are the most common, with Type C and D also in use. A universal adapter is a good idea so you can always plug in your phone to charge it.

How much data do I need for a week in Dubai?

For a week with navigation, social media and some streaming, we recommend at least 5 GB. Dubai is a lively metropolis with plenty to do, and you will be online constantly. If you take and share a lot of photos, a 10 GB plan is the better choice.

Can I set up the eSIM for the UAE at home?

Yes, and we strongly recommend it. Install the Reisechip eSIM profile with the QR code before you fly. After landing in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, your phone connects to the Etisalat network automatically, with no queue at an airport kiosk.

How much does an eSIM for United Arab Emirates cost?

eSIM data plans for United Arab Emirates start at €3.69. You pay once for the data you choose — no contract, no monthly fee and no surprise roaming bill. Bigger data packs and longer validity cost more.

Is an eSIM cheaper than roaming in United Arab Emirates?

It depends on the destination. Inside the EU your German plan usually includes roaming, often with a fair-use data cap; outside the EU, roaming is typically charged per day or per megabyte, and a travel eSIM is usually much cheaper. With an eSIM you see the full price before you buy and pay only for your data pack.

Which mobile networks does the eSIM use in United Arab Emirates?

In United Arab Emirates the eSIM connects automatically to local networks such as Etisalat (e&), du, e& (Etisalat), on 4G/LTE and on 5G where it is available. Coverage in populated areas is around 99% of the population. Your phone always picks the strongest network nearby.

Will I keep my German phone number with an eSIM in United Arab Emirates?

Yes. Your German SIM and number stay active, and the travel eSIM runs alongside it as a data-only plan. You stay reachable on WhatsApp, iMessage or over Wi-Fi while browsing on the local network. Normal calls and texts still go through your German number, where roaming charges may apply.

Can I top up or extend my United Arab Emirates data plan?

Yes. When your data runs out or the plan expires, just buy another pack. The eSIM profile already on your phone stays in place, so there is nothing to reinstall and you stay online without a break.

Can I use the eSIM as a Wi-Fi hotspot in United Arab Emirates?

Yes. You can share the connection with a laptop, tablet or a travel companion through your phone's personal hotspot. Hotspot use comes out of the same data allowance, so choose a slightly larger pack if you plan to tether.

Will the eSIM work on my phone?

It works on any eSIM-capable phone, including iPhone XS and later, Samsung Galaxy S20 and later and Google Pixel 3 and later. The phone must also be unlocked (not tied to one network). To check yours, look for "Add eSIM" under Mobile Data or Connections in your settings.

eSIM plans for United Arab Emirates

Instant delivery

United Arab Emirates: your travel eSIM from €3.69 works as soon as you land and connects to Etisalat (e&), du, e& (Etisalat) (4G/LTE where available), network coverage 99% of the population. Install it by QR code before you leave Germany — no roaming charges, no SIM swap.

Your selection

Select a plan

Payment methods

Instant email delivery
30-day refund on unused eSIMs
Support in English
Visa · Mastercard · Maestro · Apple Pay · PayPal

eSIM for United Arab Emirates at a glance

Price from: €3.69
Local networks: Etisalat (e&), du, e& (Etisalat)
Technology: 4G/LTE & 5G
Network coverage: 99% of the population
Activation: QR code — install before you leave
Suggested data: 1–3 GB light use · 5 GB with social media · 10 GB+ streaming

All eSIM plans for United Arab Emirates

Data	Validity	Price
Unlimited	1 day	€3.69
Unlimited	3 days	€9.99
Unlimited	5 days	€15.99
Unlimited	7 days	€21.99
Unlimited	10 days	€28.99
Unlimited	15 days	€39.99
Unlimited	30 days	€60.99
1 GB	7 days	€3.99
2 GB	15 days	€8.99
3 GB	30 days	€8.99
5 GB	30 days	€12.99
10 GB	30 days	€24.99
20 GB	30 days	€40.99
50 GB	30 days	€82.99

The United Arab Emirates fascinate with skyscrapers rising out of the desert, golden souks, spectacular malls and unmatched hospitality. If you are strolling through downtown Dubai, going up the Burj Khalifa or visiting the Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Abu Dhabi, you want to share the moment right away and find your way around easily. With a Reisechip eSIM you are on Etisalat's 5G network the moment you land, with no SIM swap and no expensive roaming charges. In the UAE, where getting between emirates depends on navigation, that really pays off.

Flight time from Germany

about 6–7 hours

Time zone

UTC+4 (3 hours ahead of CET)

Best time to travel

November–March

Plug type

Type C/D/G (adapter needed)

Why get an eSIM for the United Arab Emirates?

The UAE is one of the most connected countries in the world, which is exactly why mobile data matters so much there. Ride-hailing apps such as Careem, navigation services and restaurant bookings only work online. Public Wi-Fi is available in malls and hotels but is hardly reliable on the move. On top of that, local SIM cards require passport registration on the spot and are tied to UAE telecom laws that restrict some apps. With a Reisechip eSIM you are online from the first moment after landing in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, on Etisalat's lightning-fast 5G network that covers 99% of the country. From a city tour of Sharjah to a desert safari in Ras al-Khaimah, you stay connected without putting a load on your German contract.

What is network coverage like in United Arab Emirates?

Network operator

Etisalat (e&)

+ du

Technology

4G/LTE & 5G

Coverage

99% of the population

How do I install an eSIM for United Arab Emirates?

1
Buy a plan
Pick the data plan for United Arab Emirates that fits your trip and check out.
2
Scan the QR code
Open the email with your QR code and scan it with your phone's camera while you are still in Germany.
3
Add the eSIM
Follow the steps on your phone to add the eSIM as a data plan. Your German SIM stays in place.
4
Go online
Switch on the eSIM when you land in United Arab Emirates and you are online straight away.

1
Buy a plan
Pick the data plan for United Arab Emirates that fits your trip and check out.
2
Scan the QR code
Open the email with your QR code and scan it with your phone's camera while you are still in Germany.
3
Add the eSIM
Follow the steps on your phone to add the eSIM as a data plan. Your German SIM stays in place.
4
Go online
Switch on the eSIM when you land in United Arab Emirates and you are online straight away.

Which eSIM plan suits me?

Holiday

Away for 1–2 weeks? A 3–5 GB plan covers maps, photos and messages.

Business trip

For video calls and email on the go, choose at least 5 GB or an unlimited plan.

Backpacking

On longer trips, a 10 GB+ plan or a regional plan for several countries pays off.

Family

With several devices, pick a plan with hotspot support and enough data for everyone.

eSIM vs. local SIM vs. Wi-Fi hotspot — what works best for United Arab Emirates?

	eSIM	Local SIM card	Wi-Fi hotspot
Activation	Instant (QR code)	Buy on arrival	Pick-up or delivery
Setup	2 minutes	SIM swap needed	Extra device
Price	From €3.69	€5–30	€5–15 per day
Network	Local 4G/LTE	Local 4G/LTE	Local 4G/LTE
Devices	1 smartphone	1 smartphone	Up to 5 devices
Flexibility	Top up any time	Fixed allowance	Daily rental
Best for	Most travellers	Long stays	Groups and families

eSIM for United Arab Emirates: frequently asked questions

Explore all destinations

See all destinations