Etisalat SIM cards offer a convenient and reliable way to stay connected while in Dubai and UAE. Enjoy essential communication features such as making calls, sending texts, and accessing the internet with ease. Whether for staying in touch or exploring the online world, SIM Etisalat provide a practical solution for communication needs.

Etisalat sim card featured image

In this blog post, we share everything about Etisalat prepaid SIM cards, including their types, prices, where to purchase them, and some other useful information.

I. Compare Etisalat sim cards and other connectivity options in Dubai

Etisalat offers several flexible and affordable prepaid connectivity options for visiting Dubai without a long-term contract. The primary choices are:

Connectivity Option Pros Cons
Etisalat Prepaid SIM Card - Easy to purchase at airports or shops in Dubai- No commitment or contracts required- Pay only for what you use - Requires topping up credit when balance runs low- Data allowances may be limited compared to postpaid plans
Etisalat Visitor Line - Valid for up to 30 days- Pay-as-you-go rates for data, calls, texts- No long term commitment - Must purchase new SIM card after 30 days- Daily data allowances could be exceeded for heavy users
Etisalat Postpaid Plan - Unlimited data, calls, texts on many plans- Device payment plans available- No topping up required - Requires credit check and deposit- Monthly subscription fee even if not in UAE long-term- Early termination fees if cancelling before contract ends
WiFi Hotspots - Free basic usage at many locations- Convenient for quick internet access - Speed/reliability can vary- Not suitable for streaming or heavy use- No cellular connectivity outside hotspots

 Etisalat’s prepaid plans allow picking the right data amounts, calling minutes, text allowance, and validity timeframe to match your travel schedule. 

II. Best a SIM Etisalat for Tourists & Cost

Etisalat’s Visitor Line provides the best SIM card options tailored specifically for Dubai travelers. Etisalat Visitor Line prepaid plans include:

Plan Name Data  Call/SMS  Validity Price (USD)
Visitor Line 2GB 30 Minutes, 30 SMS 28 Days ~$13
Visitor Line+ 4GB 30 Minutes, 30 SMS 28 Days ~$21
Visitor Line Premium 8GB 120 Minutes, Unlimited SMS 28 Days ~$34
Visitor Line Premium + 22.5GB 525 Minutes, Unlimited SMS 28 Days ~$54
Visitor Line Unlimited Data Unlimited Local Data 300 Minutes 14 Days ~$86

Plans can renew automatically by topping up your account or you can switch to another prepaid pack. Compared to normal prepaid, the Visitor Line has simplified options without compromising on 4G LTE data speeds, calling, and network reliability.

III. Does Etisalat Support eSIM in Dubai?

Yes, Etisalat launched eSIM support in 2019 across the UAE making it one of the first carriers globally providing this technology. Any device with embedded eSIM functionality – like newer iPhones, Google Pixels, or Samsung Galaxy phones – works with Etisalat’s prepaid eSIM plans.

Etisalat’s eSIM offering mirrors its latest Visitor Line physical SIM card options for fast 4G LTE/5G data, local UAE calling, texting, and 30-day validity periods. Moreover, if you have a plan to Dubai for 30 days, choose data packages from Dubai eSIM to get the best value with high-speed data and additional service. Explore more plans here. And To use eSIM, you need a compatible device. Check the list of supported devices at the List of eSIM Compatible Devices.

IV. Where can You Buy an Etisalat SIM card and eSIM?

It’s quick and convenient to purchase Etisalat SIM cards and eSIM plans when you arrive at Dubai International Airport or from Etisalat stores across the city.

1. Where to Buy Etisalat SIM for Dubai?

Etisalat store in Dubai

You can pick up an Etisalat prepaid SIM at:

  • Etisalat stores – Located in major malls and metro stations
  • Dubai Airport – Etisalat Traveler SIM counter in Arrivals halls
  • Hotel concierge desks – Many hotels sell packs for guests
  • Authorized resellers – Small phone shops, supermarkets, etc.

Bring your passport when buying a standard Etisalat SIM card. Pick the prepaid plan matching your usage needs and travel dates.

>> See more: Where to Buy a Dubai prepaid SIM card?

2. Where to Buy Etisalat eSIM in Dubai?

Etisalat’s eSIM plans can be purchased through:

  • Etisalat reseller – offers eSIM for over 200 countries including Dubai, price starts from $5.9 for 30 days travel
  • Etisalat app – Download, register, and activate eSIM with stored payment method
  • Etisalat website – Create account and directly buy eSIM pack
  • Etisalat stores – Staff can assist with digital eSIM purchase in-store

No passport is needed when you order an Etisalat eSIM online. Activation is instant after completing payment.

Note: After purchasing your eSIM, you’ll need to install it. Follow the instructions on “How to Install Dubai eSIM“

V. How to Activate Etisalat SIM/eSIM in Dubai?

Activating both physical sim Etisalat and eSIM plans is quick and easy in Dubai.

1. How to Use Etisalat SIM Cards in Dubai?

Etisalat sim card

To start using your Etisalat Visitor Line SIM card:

  1. Insert SIM in unlocked device
  2. Power on phone and enable mobile data
  3. Automatic configuration texts confirm your number
  4. Enter SIM PIN when first prompted
  5. You’re ready to start using it immediately

2. How to Activate Etisalat eSIM?

After purchasing your Etisalat eSIM plan:

  1. Select eSIM option on device and scan QR code provided
  2. Download configuration profile and install
  3. Enter details from Etisalat account used for order
  4. Activation completes in under a minute
  5. Enjoy high-speed data, calls and texts

Both options connect quickly so you have working phone and internet during your Dubai trip. If you are buying an additional SIM card to use in another phone, you can learn more How to activate du Dubai SIM/eSIM?

VI. Dubai Etisalat Call & SMS Rates

Etisalat prepaid plans include bundled local minutes and texts, but additional usage draws from your account balance. Cost per minute/text:

  • Standard UAE calls – $0.14 per minute
  • Texts to UAE numbers – $0.01 per text
  • Calls to other countries – From $0.27 per minute
  • SMS internationally – $0.08 per text 

Rates get discounted for calling or texting other Etisalat mobile numbers. Making affordable calls requires paying attention to prefixes and number formatting.

In conclusion, Using Etisalat SIM cards or eSIM while visiting Dubai gives a fast, reliable connection on the region’s most advanced network. Visitor Line prepaid plans perfectly meet tourists’ mobile data, calling and texting needs for 30 days. Just decide if you want. Leverage Etisalat’s 4G LTE and 5G during your Dubai travels for smooth connectivity across this world-class destination.