As a tourist visiting the UAE, choosing the right mobile operator to purchase a SIM card from is important to stay connected seamlessly during your trip. However, with multiple plans and packages on offer by both networks, it can be difficult to determine which operator provides the best value. This guide provides a detailed comparison of Etisalat and du networks in the UAE from the perspective of an international tourist.
Table of Contents
I. List of Mobile Operators in UAE
1. 2 Main Mobile Operators in UAE
Etisalat
Etisalat is the largest telecommunications service provider in the UAE, with a network spanning over 16 million subscribers. Founded in 1976, it was the first telecom company established in the country. Today, Etisalat operates an advanced 4G network covering over 99% of the population across all major cities and towns.
du
du is the second largest operator in the UAE, formed in 2006 through the merger of Emirates Telecommunications Corporation assets. It has rapidly grown its subscriber base to over 11 million users nationwide. du’s 4G network reaches approximately 98% of populated areas in the UAE, covering all seven emirates as well as over 95% of roads.
2. Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) in UAE
In addition to the two major operators, there are several Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) that provide mobile services in the UAE by leasing network access from Etisalat and du:
- Virgin Mobile
- EITC
- Lebara
- FRiENDi
These MVNOs have their own brand names but rely on the underlying network infrastructure of the major operators. They focus on low-cost prepaid mobile services targeting expatriate customers.
II. How to Choose the Best Mobile Operators in UAE
Here are some key factors to consider when choosing a UAE mobile operator.
- Coverage – Check coverage maps to make sure that the operator has good coverage in places where you live, work or frequent often. Both Etisalat and du have extensive 4G coverage across major cities and tourist destinations. However, Etisalat has a slight edge in rural areas.
- Data Packages – Compare prices of call rates, data rates, roaming rates and costs of extras against your pattern of use. Du offers competitive data bundles great for Instagram, maps etc. Etisalat has large social media packs.
- Call/Text Rates – Intra-network calls/texts are cheap on both. Etisalat slightly pricier for calls to other networks
- Customer Service – Check the comments and ratings on the contact form, wait times, and so forth to ensure that if something goes wrong you will be well looked after. Etisalat service maturing over years is more reliable consensus. Du improving but still trails Etisalat
Considering a tourist’s priority for coverage, value SIM, sufficient data and hassle-free customer care, Etisalat would likely offer the more well-rounded experience.
III. Best Mobile Operators in UAE – Detailed Comparison
The UAE has three major mobile network operators – Etisalat and du. The following table compares their coverage, support, pricing and other key factors:
| Operator | Coverage and speeds | English support | Prices and plans (USD) | Other factors |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Etisalat | Extensive 4G/5G coverage across UAE. Fast speeds. Generally reliable network. | Full English support across all customer services, websites, apps, etc. | Plans start from $27/month. Large data allowances. Variety of individual and family plans. | Largest network in UAE. Often seen as more premium than Du. |
| du | Nationwide 4G coverage. Fast speeds in most areas but slightly below Etisalat. Generally reliable. | Full English support across all customer services, websites, apps, etc. | More affordable starting at $14/month. Good data allowances. Focused on value plans. | Slightly smaller network than Etisalat but still extensive. Seen as more value-focused. |
Etisalat would likely be the best mobile operator for tourists coming to the UAE. As the largest network, Etisalat has the most extensive 4G/5G coverage across the country, ensuring reliable connectivity wherever tourists travel. It also offers higher speeds than Du in most areas.
Good to know: If you're looking for reliable data connectivity during your trip to the UAE, consider getting an eSIM plan from uaeesim.com. Their affordable eSIM plans give you access to Etisalat's high-speed network without the hassle of swapping physical SIM cards
IV. Where to Buy SIM Card from Mobile Operators in UAE?
There are several easy options available for purchasing a SIM card from the main mobile network operators, Etisalat and Du, when arriving in the UAE. Here are some of the main options for buying UAE SIM card:
- Operator stores – Walk into the nearest du or Etisalat store with Emirates ID and passport copies. SIM activation is done in minutes. Stores are located across malls, commercial areas etc. The stores will have plans and packages to choose from.
- Airports – Prepaid SIM cards from Etisalat and du are available at Dubai International Airport and Abu Dhabi International Airport arrival areas. This is very convenient if you need connectivity right away.
- Online: Both Etisalat and Du allow you to buy prepaid SIM cards online through their websites. The SIM will be delivered to you. This is a good contactless option.
V. Do Mobile Operators in UAE Offer eSIM?
Yes, the major mobile operators in the UAE, Etisalat and Du, have both started providing eSIM capabilities on selected smartphones in recent years.
- Etisalat: It offers a range of prepaid and postpaid eSIM plans starting from AED 20-50. These plans include data bundles with up to 30 days of validity along with call and SMS add-ons.
- du: Customers have the option to purchase Du prepaid eSIM packages directly from the operator’s online storefront and mobile application. Plans range between AED 30-60 for 30 days and include 1-5GB of data as well as call and text benefits.
Ultimately, buying an eSIM from uaeesim.com provides tourists and travelers visiting the United Arab Emirates with a convenient and economical alternative to purchasing a physical SIM card. All you need to do is scan the QR code from your email upon arrival and your Etisalat mobile data plan will be instantly activated. eSIM plans from uaeesim.com are affordable, provide great coverage nationwide, and save you the hassle of dealing with stores – making it truly the best option for digital nomads, business travelers or tourists wanting seamless connectivity during their visit to the UAE.
VI. FAQs
Which operator has the best coverage in the UAE?
Etisalat and du both have extensive nationwide coverage across the UAE. Etisalat is considered to have a slight edge in coverage since it was the first provider in the country. However, du’s network reaches over 99% of the populated areas.
How long does mobile number portability take if changing operators?
You can switch from say Etisalat to du and port your number via the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA). This is completed within 1 working day.
What types of mobile plans are available?
Providers offer plans for prepaid SIMs as well as monthly postpaid contracts. Prepaid options are best for short visits while postpaid contracts may offer better value for longer stays.
Which 5G operator is available in UAE?
Both Etisalat and du have nationwide 5G coverage across major population centers in the UAE. Either network is a good option for experiencing 5G speeds on a compatible smartphone in the country. Etisalat currently has a slight edge in geographic 5G reach.
Can I use my US phone in the UAE?
The short answer is yes – with some prep work, using your US phone seamlessly in the UAE is very doable. Check out our guide on the best ways to keep your phone connected while in the UAE.
VII. Conclusion
In conclusion, both Etisalat and du provide reliable connectivity options for tourists visiting the United Arab Emirates. With extensive nationwide coverage across the country’s cities and towns, travelers can stay connected from either network. Alternatively, for convenience and affordability, opting for an eSIM plan from Etisalat through uaeesim.com is likely a great choice.
