General guide — confirm on the official site
Getting a SIM card
സിം കാർഡ് എടുക്കുന്ന വിധം
Get a SIM from licensed telecom operators' official stores or apps. Visitors can buy tourist SIMs.
Go to the official service Last updated: November 2026
This is general guidance. Fees and rules change — confirm on the official link and apply only there.
Who needs this?
New residents and visitors.
Eligibility
- Residents with Emirates ID; tourists with passport and entry stamp
- Each ID has a limit on the number of SIMs
Required documents
- Emirates ID (or passport with visa/entry stamp)
Step by step
- Choose e&, du or Virgin Mobile (see list below)
- Buy at an operator shop, mall kiosk, airport or app
- Register with your ID (face check)
- Never let someone else register a SIM in your name
Fees
Prepaid from roughly AED 35–50 a month; tourist SIMs from about AED 50
Processing time
Instant
Online or in person
Online and in person
Where to go — useful links
Prices and timings are approximate and change — confirm on the official site before paying.
e& (Etisalat)
Mobile, prepaid/postpaid SIMs, home internet.
du
Mobile and home internet; free tourist SIM at DXB arrivals.
Virgin Mobile UAE
App-only SIM delivered to your door.
Responsible authority
Common mistakes
- Registering a SIM in your name for someone else — you're responsible for its misuse.
Related questions
How do I see how many SIMs are in my name?
Use TDRA's free 'Your Numbers' check on the TDRA website or app, or ask e&/du. Cancel any SIM you don't recognise.
Related guides
Official sources
MalluDubai is an independent information portal. We don't accept applications or represent the government.