UAE Phone Number & Internet Setup: Complete Expat Guide

A UAE phone number is one of the first things you need after landing, as it's required for bank account registration, Emirates ID verification, delivery services, ride-hailing apps, and virtually every government service. This guide covers how to get set up with mobile and home internet quickly and at the best price.

UAE Telecom Providers

The UAE has three mobile operators. Unlike many countries, you can't use unlicensed VoIP services (WhatsApp calls, FaceTime audio, and Skype are restricted). You'll need a local plan that includes calling minutes.

• Etisalat (e&): The original UAE telecom provider. Largest network coverage, especially outside cities. Premium pricing but the most reliable service. Best for: those who need coverage across all emirates, including rural and desert areas.
• du (EITC): The second major operator. Competitive pricing, good urban coverage. Slightly cheaper plans than Etisalat. Best for: budget-conscious users who live and work in Dubai or Abu Dhabi.
• Virgin Mobile UAE: An MVNO (Mobile Virtual Network Operator) running on du's network. App-based, no contracts. Best for: tech-savvy users who want flexibility and easy plan management via an app.

Getting a Mobile SIM Card

What You Need

• Original passport
• Emirates ID (or visa copy if your EID isn't ready yet)
• Most providers accept tourist visa holders for prepaid SIMs, but postpaid plans require a residency visa

Prepaid vs. Postpaid

• Prepaid (Pay As You Go): No contract. Buy a SIM (AED 55–100), recharge as needed. Good for the first few weeks before your Emirates ID is issued. Limited data plans available.
• Postpaid (Monthly Plan): Requires Emirates ID. Monthly plans from AED 75–400/month. Includes data, local calls, and sometimes international minutes. Better value for regular use.

Popular Postpaid Plans (2026)

• Etisalat Wasel: From AED 75/month (3GB data, unlimited local calls). Premium plans up to AED 400/month (unlimited data + international minutes)
• du Power Plans: From AED 65/month (2GB data, local calls). Best value: AED 175/month plan (25GB data, unlimited local calls, some international)
• Virgin Mobile: From AED 50/month (1GB data). Very flexible: change plan monthly via the app. No contract lock-in.

Important: VoIP Restrictions

The UAE blocks most free VoIP services. WhatsApp, FaceTime, and Skype voice/video calls do not work by default on UAE networks. Options for international calling:

• BOTIM: Licensed VoIP app. AED 50/month added to your mobile plan. Supports voice and video calls.
• Etisalat/du calling packs: International minutes included in premium plans or purchasable as add-ons.
• C'Me by du: Another licensed VoIP option at AED 50/month.

Many expats subscribe to BOTIM for family video calls, as it's the most widely used licensed option.

Home Internet Setup

Providers

• Etisalat eLife: Fibre-optic home internet. Plans from AED 299/month (100 Mbps) to AED 999/month (1 Gbps). Includes a router and landline number.
• du Home: Fibre-optic internet. Plans from AED 299/month (250 Mbps) to AED 749/month (1 Gbps). Often bundled with TV channels.

What You Need

• Emirates ID
• Ejari certificate (tenancy contract registration)
• DEWA account in your name (some providers require this)

Installation Process

1. Apply online or visit a store with your documents
2. Installation appointment is typically scheduled within 2–5 business days
3. A technician installs the fibre connection and router (usually 1–2 hours)
4. If your building already has fibre infrastructure (most modern buildings do), activation can happen within 24 hours

TV and Streaming

• Both Etisalat and du offer IPTV bundles with their internet plans (100+ channels)
• Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and Apple TV+ all work normally in the UAE
• Some content may be geo-restricted compared to your home country's library
• beIN Sports is the main sports broadcaster, available as an add-on to both eLife and du Home

Tips for New Residents

• Get a prepaid SIM immediately at the airport on arrival; both Etisalat and du have booths in the arrivals hall
• Switch to postpaid once you have your Emirates ID, as it's significantly cheaper per GB
• If you work from home, prioritize internet speed, since video calls and VPN connections are bandwidth-hungry
• Ask your building management which provider offers fibre in your building before choosing, as not all buildings have both Etisalat and du
• Set up auto-pay for your mobile and internet bills via your UAE bank account to avoid service interruptions

Total Monthly Costs

• Mobile (postpaid): AED 100–200/month for a solid plan with data and local calls
• Home internet: AED 299–500/month for 250 Mbps – 500 Mbps fibre
• BOTIM (VoIP): AED 50/month if you need international calling
• Total estimate: AED 450–750/month for full connectivity

Getting connected is one of the first-week tasks in your GulfPilot relocation plan. We include it right after your UAE phone number setup, since you need a local number before you can set up home internet.