[2025 Latest Edition] 3 recommended eSIMs for traveling to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and a thorough explanation of how to choose them

Marhaba (Hello)!

Are you planning a trip to the United Arab Emirates (UAE)?

The UAE is a fascinating country where futuristic cities and traditional cultures blend together. In Dubai, you can enjoy stunning architectural beauty, such as the world's tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, and the artificial island, the Palm Jumeirah. In the capital, Abu Dhabi, you can experience art and history at the magnificent Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the Louvre Abu Dhabi. Desert safaris and traditional souks (markets) will also add color to your travel memories.

To enjoy sightseeing in the UAE, an internet connection is very important for checking local tourist information, sharing memories on social media, etc. eSIM is convenient for such occasions. It saves you the trouble of searching for and purchasing a SIM card locally, and allows you to easily set up a communication environment on your smartphone.

By using an eSIM, you can enjoy a stress-free trip to the UAE. Create a comfortable internet environment and make your trip a memorable one!

❔What is eSIM?❔

eSIM (embedded SIM) is an innovative alternative to traditional physical SIM cards.
By directly downloading and installing communication profiles on devices such as smartphones and tablets, users will be able to use various communication services. This eliminates the need to replace SIM cards, creating a more flexible and smoother communication environment.

 

✈Benefits of using an eSIM when traveling to the UAE

[Lighten your load and travel more freely]

By using eSIM, you no longer need to carry around pocket Wi-Fi or physical SIM cards. Just install the eSIM profile on your smartphone and you can immediately access the local communication environment. There is no need to replace the SIM, and you can continue to use your regular phone number, which is a convenient feature.

[Can be activated immediately at the airport]

When you arrive at Dubai International Airport or Abu Dhabi International Airport, you can immediately use the local internet by simply setting up your smartphone. There's no need to wander around the airport looking for a SIM card, and you can start traveling and sightseeing smoothly right after you arrive.

[Safe across countries and regions]

The UAE is home to a wide range of attractions, including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Al Ain. With an eSIM, you can rest assured that you will have stable internet access wherever you are. What's more, if you're planning on traveling to the Gulf countries (Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, etc.), you can choose a multi-country eSIM plan to keep your internet connection up and running even when you cross borders.

✈Notes about eSIM

[Check device compatibility]

Not all smartphones and tablets support eSIM. First, check whether your device supports eSIM. Even if it does, it may not be usable depending on the eSIM provider or country you use, so it's a good idea to check the specifications and supported areas in advance.

[Check if the SIM lock is removed]

Smartphones purchased from a telecommunications carrier may have restrictions that prevent them from being used with other companies' networks. To use an eSIM, this "SIM lock" must be removed. You can find out how to remove the SIM lock by contacting your telecommunications carrier's support or on their official website. If you complete the procedure before traveling, you'll be able to use the network smoothly once you're there!

[ Check the communication area at your destination ]

In the United Arab Emirates, urban areas such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah have very high quality mobile communications, and 5G coverage is expanding. However, in natural areas such as the mountainous region of Hatta, the Liwa Desert, and the outskirts of Al Ain, signals can be difficult to receive in some locations. Be aware that communications can be unstable, especially in desert and mountainous areas.

Therefore, when choosing an eSIM, it is a good idea to check in advance whether the areas you plan to visit are included in the communication coverage area. Also, if you plan to travel to neighboring Gulf countries such as Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Qatar, choosing an eSIM plan that supports multiple countries will allow you to maintain a comfortable internet environment even when crossing borders.

[For safe internet use]

When traveling, you will often have the opportunity to use free Wi-Fi at airports, hotels, cafes, etc. However, networks with insufficient security pose a risk of personal information being leaked. Mobile data communication via eSIM is relatively safe, but if you want to be even more secure, we recommend using a VPN (Virtual Private Network). Communication contents are encrypted, allowing you to use it safely while protecting your privacy.

📲3 recommended local eSIM providers

📶 1. Etisalat by e&

The largest telecommunications company in the UAE. It covers a wide area from urban areas to suburban areas, and eSIM can be easily obtained through the official app or at stores. It is based in Abu Dhabi and is characterized by its high reliability as a government-affiliated company.

📌 Recommended points

• The UAE's largest telecommunications operator

• Wide coverage from urban areas to suburban areas and desert areas

• Some plans are also available in Gulf countries (Saudi Arabia, Qatar, etc.)

📌 Recommended Plans

• SVisitor Line 1: 2GB + 30min talk time/7 days, approx. 49AED

📶 2. du

A popular telecommunications company mainly in Dubai. It covers over 99% of the UAE, and is known for its high communication quality, especially in urban areas such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah. They also offer prepaid eSIM plans for tourists.

📌 Recommended points

• Strong communication infrastructure in urban areas

• International roaming and global eSIM

• Multilingual customer support

📌 Recommended Plans

• Tourist Plan S: 2GB + 30 minutes talk/7 days, approximately 49 AED

📶 3. Virgin Mobile UAE

A 100% digitally operated telecommunications company. You can apply for and manage eSIMs through the app, making it easy to use even for short-term visitors.

📌 Recommended points

• First fully digital eSIM onboarding in the UAE

• Get 5GB of free data when you sign up online (conditions apply)

• Data volume and call time can be freely customized
  

📌 Recommended Plans

• 1 month plan: 3GB ~/30 days, from about 79AED, 5GB free when purchased online

*Please check the latest information on each official website.

📲How to use eSIM: Easy installation with QR code

1. Purchase : Purchase from a trusted eSIM provider such as VOYAGE eSIM.

2. Scan the QR code : Open your smartphone's camera, scan the QR code and install the app.

3. Switch on your data plan : Once you arrive at your destination, activate the eSIM in your device's settings menu. Reboot if necessary.

It only takes a few minutes to set up and you'll be connected to the Internet in no time.
For detailed instructions on how to use the product, please refer to the manual provided by each manufacturer .  

[Reference] VOYAGE eSIM: eSIM How to Use Manual

✈How to choose an eSIM that you won't regret when traveling to the UAE

[Choose the data capacity that suits your usage style]

It's important to choose a data plan that suits you depending on how long you'll be staying in the UAE and how you'll use your smartphone.
If you plan on using map apps for navigation, watching videos at tourist spots, and posting on social media a lot, we recommend a medium to large capacity plan.
On the other hand, if you only need to check messaging apps and social media, a low-volume data plan will be sufficient.

If you know your average daily data usage before you travel, you can choose a plan that will save you money and avoid waste!

[Check the support system in case of trouble]

Although eSIM is convenient, sometimes you may experience problems with settings or connection. In such cases, you can rely on customer support .

• Service hours (local time)
• Is there chat or email support?
• Is there support in Japanese or English?

If you check these things in advance, you will be able to deal with any problems that arise when you get there with peace of mind.

[Refer to user reviews]

In addition to the information on the official website, reviews and experiences from travelers who have actually used the eSIM are also very helpful.

• Stability of communication
• Communication speed
• Ease of setup
• Support Response

By checking and comparing multiple real testimonials like these, you can choose the eSIM that best suits your travel style!

✈VOYAGEE SIM is recommended for traveling to the UAE !

Reason for recommendation 1 : Ideal for first-time users: Money-back guarantee

VOYAGEe SIM offers a 30-day money-back guarantee so that first-time eSIM users can use it with peace of mind. We will flexibly respond to any troubles that may occur, such as setup issues or communication not working as expected. With a money-back guarantee, you can easily introduce eSIM without worrying about risks, even on your first overseas trip or business trip. VOYAGEe SIM's strength is that we have created an environment where you can try it out with peace of mind.

Reason for recommendation 2: Peace of mind as it is run by a Japanese company

VOYAGEESIM is operated by a Japanese company, so the fact that support is available in Japanese is a major reassuring point. Even if you have any trouble while traveling, support is available via chat every day from 9:00 to 18:00 (Japan time), so you can receive support without worrying about the language barrier. Communication problems can be particularly worrying overseas, but the fact that support is available in Japanese means you can use the service with peace of mind.  

Reason #3: Secure design that ensures uninterrupted communication

Another big advantage of VOYAGEE SIM is that communication will not be interrupted during the usage period. Even if you use up your high-speed data capacity, you can still use emails, messages, and simple searches. This function allows you to always have access to the information you need, so you won't feel inconvenienced while traveling. Although the speed will drop to 128kbps, you can continue to use the Internet without any problems, such as sending and receiving emails and messages, and doing light Internet searches.

✈Recommended for traveling to Saudi Arabia ! eSIM "VOYAGE eSIM "📲

VOYAGEESIM FOR GLOBAL

Click here for supported countries

Click here for a list of products

You can choose from two plans: 10GB for 15 days and 20GB for 30 days .

🛫If you use "VOYAGEESIM"
Easy online purchase !
"Convenient" - Just set up your device and you're ready to go !
"Great value" Great value for money with a plan that suits you! Reasonable prices!
"Peace of mind" We provide support in Japanese for any troubles you may have! We also offer refunds for first-time customers!

By covering a wide area,

We will make your trip ✨"comfortable"✨ !

*The communications service for this product is provided by Weitaige Technology Co. Ltd.

🌟 Summary

To make your trip to the UAE more enjoyable, we highly recommend using an eSIM. In this article, we've introduced in detail the benefits of choosing an eSIM as your means of communication in the UAE, as well as some tips on how to choose one.

By using an eSIM, you can set up your local communications environment before you leave Japan, allowing you to connect to the internet as soon as you arrive.
From Dubai's futuristic skyscrapers to Abu Dhabi's magnificent mosques, Sharjah's cultural heritage, and the vast landscapes of the Liwa Desert, the UAE's diverse attractions can all be fully enjoyed with an eSIM, ensuring a smooth communications environment.

Immerse yourself in a unique UAE experience through its culture, nature and welcoming people.
We hope that your trip to the Arab world will be an unforgettable memory for you.

Have a good trip! (Rihla Sayyida = Have a good trip!)