Dubai Tourist SIM Card 2026: Best Data Deals
Compare the best 2026 Dubai tourist SIM options from du and Etisalat. See daily data allowances, exact prices in AED, and where to pick up at the airport.
Why You Need a Tourist SIM in Dubai
Most hotels offer free Wi-Fi, yet speeds drop during peak hours and coverage varies. A prepaid tourist SIM gives reliable 5G data for maps, ride-hailing, and video calls without roaming fees.
du Tourist SIM 2026
du sells its Visitor SIM at both Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Al Maktoum International (DWC). The most popular plan in 2026 costs 110 AED for 7 days and includes 7 GB of daily high-speed data. After the daily quota, speeds reduce to 128 Kbps until midnight. You can top up via the du app or at any du kiosk.
- Price: 110 AED for 7 days
- Data: 7 GB per day at full speed
- Pickup: DXB Terminal 1 and 3, DWC arrivals
- Validity: 7, 14 or 30 days (same daily data)
Etisalat Tourist SIM 2026
Etisalat (now branded e&) offers its Tourist Prepaid SIM at DXB Terminals 1, 2 and 3. The 2026 starter pack costs 125 AED for 15 days with 5 GB of daily data. Once the daily limit is reached, data continues at 64 Kbps. Extras such as unlimited social media or international minutes can be added for 30 AED each.
- Price: 125 AED for 15 days
- Data: 5 GB per day at full speed
- Pickup: DXB Terminals 1, 2, 3
- Validity: 7, 15 or 30 days
Quick Comparison Table
| Operator | Price | Daily Data | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| du | 110 AED / 7 days | 7 GB | Short stays, heavy data use |
| Etisalat | 125 AED / 15 days | 5 GB | Longer visits, lighter use |
How to Activate on Arrival
Both operators have staffed counters in the arrivals halls. Show your passport; the SIM is registered instantly under ICP rules. Insert the SIM, turn on data roaming, and you are online within two minutes. Keep the packaging until you leave in case you need to extend the plan.
Tips for Heavy Data Users
If you plan to stream or navigate all day, du's 7 GB daily allowance is usually enough. For lighter use, Etisalat's longer validity saves money. Both networks cover the entire UAE, including Abu Dhabi and Sharjah day trips.
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Frequently asked questions
Where can I buy a tourist SIM at DXB?▾
Both du and Etisalat have counters in Terminal 1 and 3 arrivals. Etisalat also serves Terminal 2.
Can I use the SIM outside Dubai?▾
Yes, both networks cover all seven emirates with no extra roaming charges.
What happens after daily data runs out?▾
du drops to 128 Kbps; Etisalat drops to 64 Kbps until the next day.
Do I need a UAE number for ride apps?▾
Careem and Uber accept international numbers, but a local SIM is faster for OTPs.
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