When travelling to a foreign country, having a local SIM card is essential for staying connected. As a visitor to the UAE, getting a DU SIM card from Dubai-based telecom operator DU allows you to easily make calls, send texts and use mobile data. This comprehensive guide provides tourists with all the information needed to purchase and activate a prepaid DU SIM card for their trip to Dubai and the UAE.
Table of Contents
I. Quick Facts about DU
DU is one of the leading telecommunications providers in the United Arab Emirates. Here are some quick facts about this brand:
- Founded year: 2006
- Full company name: Emirates Integrated Telecommunications Company (EITC), commonly known as du
- Types of services provided: du provides mobile telecom services including prepaid and postpaid plans for voice calls, SMS, data and roaming. It also offers fixed line services, broadband internet, IPTV, and fiber connectivity for enterprises and homes.
- Number of subscribers: du has over 8.5 million subscribers as of 2022, making it one of the largest operators in the UAE.
- Coverage: du provides mobile coverage to over 99% of the UAE’s population across major cities like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah. Its network spans key industrial and residential areas.
- Estimated number of network of stores, agents: du has over 500 company-owned and franchise retail stores across the UAE. It also has thousands of independent resellers and retail partners.
II. UAE DU Coverage and Speed in the UAE
1. DU coverage in UAE
DU provides extensive mobile coverage to both residents and visitors across the UAE. The company’s nationwide 4G/LTE network spans over 90% of the country’s populated areas, covering major cities, towns, and industrial regions. In large metropolitan areas like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, DU’s high-speed mobile infrastructure blankets the entire urban landscape, ensuring seamless indoor and outdoor connectivity.
This widespread coverage combined with competitive pricing makes DU a great choice for both local UAE residents and international travelers looking to stay connected during their visit using a DU eSIM or physical SIM card.
2. DU speed
DU prides itself on providing customers fast and reliable mobile internet access across its 4G/LTE network throughout the UAE. According to recent reports, DU’s average 4G/LTE download speeds in the UAE are clocked around 40.1 Mbps, which is on par and in some areas faster than speeds offered by other operators in the region.
This allows DU subscribers to browse rich content, stream high definition videos, download large files and use data heavy services without facing any significant lag. The speeds are particularly impressive in major cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, where DU’s state-of-the-art infrastructure consistently delivers over 50 Mbps. Even in less crowded suburban and rural locations, DU subscribers enjoy average 4G downloads in the range of 20-30 Mbps.
III. DU Connectivity Options for Travelers to UAE
DU provides various connectivity options for travelers visiting the UAE. Whether an individual, family or business traveler, choosing the right connection plan is important to have hassle-free access to data and calls within budget. The table below summarizes and compares some key DU connectivity options available – pocket WiFi, local SIM card, and international roaming
| DU Connectivity Option | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pocket WiFi | – Easy to share among devices | – Higher upfront cost | – Groups travelling together |
| – No need to unlock devices | – Usage limits can be exceeded | – Families | |
| – No SIM card needed | – No local contact number | – Long stays over 1 month | |
| DU SIM Card | – Lower upfront cost | – Need compatible device | – Individual travelers |
| – Unlimited usage | – Need to unlock device | – Stays under 1 month | |
| – Local phone number | – SIM locked to one device | ||
| International Roaming | – No need to buy local SIM | – Very high call/data rates | – Short 1-2 week trips |
| – Familiar number/account | – Coverage depends on home network | – Expats sometimes | |
| – Works abroad instantly | – Adds up costs quickly | – For work purposes |
In conclusion, for tourists visiting the UAE for typical leisure or short business trips, purchasing a local DU SIM card would likely provide the best connectivity solution in most cases. With affordable upfront costs and unlimited usage allowance, a DU SIM card allows travelers to have dependable data and calling services for the duration of their stay without exceeding package limits or facing exorbitant roaming rates.
Good to know: The various eSIM plan options available from uaeesim.com provide a flexible digital solution that is suitable for most travelers visiting the UAE. With durations ranging from 1 day up to 90 days, there is an eSIM package that can meet the needs of travelers regardless of the length of their trip.
IV. Best DU SIM Card for Tourists & Cost
Telecom operator Du provides several prepaid SIM card plans that are suitable for tourists visiting the UAE. If you need a DU SIM card during your visit to the UAE, these are the best prepaid options:
| Plan Name | Data | Validity (Days) | Price (AED) | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2GB Data | 2GB | 28 Days | AED49 | $13.34 |
| 6GB Data | 6GB | 28 Days | AED99 | $26.96 |
| 10GB Data | 10GB | 28 Days | AED139 | $37.85 |
| 20GB Data | 20GB | 28 Days | AED189 | $51.46 |
| Unlimited Data | Unlimited | 7 Days | AED199 | $54.19 |
| Unlimited Data | Unlimited | 14 Days | AED299 | $81.42 |
| Unlimited Data | Unlimited | 28 Days | AED499 | $135.87 |
All plans ensure tourists can enjoy internet connectivity throughout their trip without worrying about expiration dates. With competitive rates and flexibility in data allowances and validity periods, Du SIM cards present a budget-friendly cellular solution for most travelers exploring the UAE.
Tips:
For saving time, you can pre-book a Du prepaid SIM and get it free at Dubai International Airport with 1GB of welcome data.
V. Does DU UAE support eSIM?
Yes, in addition to physical prepaid SIM cards, Du UAE also provides eSIM options that are a convenient choice for tourists visiting the country.
Du was one of the first mobile operators in the UAE to introduce eSIM support, allowing travelers to digitally activate data plans straight onto compatible devices without the need to purchase a physical SIM. Plans start from as low as AED49 ($13.30) per month which provides 2GB of data, perfectly suitable for light usage while traveling. Tourists can easily purchase an eSIM plan online before their visit and install it onto their smartphone once in the UAE.
VI. Where Can I Buy a DU SIM Card and eSIM?
1. Where to buy DU SIM for UAE?
As a tourist, here are the main ways to purchase a physical DU SIM card in the UAE:
- Du Stores: Du has its own branded retail stores scattered around major cities and airports in the UAE like Dubai and Abu Dhabi. You can purchase Du prepaid SIM cards directly from these stores.
- Airport retail shops: Shops in airports like Dubai International sell Du SIM starter packs for instant activation upon arrival in UAE.
- Supermarkets – Major supermarkets like Carrefour sell DU prepaid SIMs.
- Online – Order a DU SIM card for delivery on the DU UAE website or Amazon UAE.
Bring your passport when purchasing a DU SIM. Remember to choose the prepaid Tourist SIM for the best rates.
2. Where to buy DU eSIM
If you want a DU eSIM during your visit, you have two options:
- Online – Visit the DU website to order an eSIM voucher code. Use this to activate the eSIM directly on your phone.
- DU Stores – Purchase an eSIM voucher code card from a DU store. Staff can also assist with activation.
DU stores with eSIM support will have signs indicating “eSIM sold here”. Not all locations support eSIMs yet. Online purchase is easiest if your device already supports eSIM activation.
VII. How to Activate UAE DU SIM Card/eSIM?
Activating your DU SIM or eSIM is quick and easy:
1. How to activate UAE DU SIM Card
- Insert your DU SIM into your unlocked phone.
- Power on your device and the SIM will auto-detect.
- Choose your language and tap ‘Next’ through the setup prompts.
- Enter your DU SIM number and tap ‘Activate’.
- Your prepaid balance and data will be ready to use!
The process takes only a couple of minutes. You can then purchase add-on packs as needed.
2. How to activate UAE DU eSIM
Activating your DU eSIM is just as fast:
- If you got the eSIM online, scan the QR code
- Go into your phone’s eSIM settings. Select ‘Add cellular plan’.
- Scan the QR code or enter the activation link.
- Follow the prompts to activate your DU eSIM.
- Once done, your prepaid data balance will be active.
That’s all there is to it! eSIM activation takes only a few taps. You’ll then have DU service without a physical SIM card.
VIII. UAE eSIM – Alternatives to DU in UAE
For travelers looking for an easy and cost-effective mobile data solution in the UAE, eSIM from uaeesim.com offers the best alternative. It presents an affordable essential service without the cost and complexity of purchasing a physical SIM on arrival.
uaeesim.com offers flexible durations plan starting from 1 day up to 90 days, making it simple to pick a plan that matches travel schedules and budgets. With the ability to instantly buy an eSIM online before traveling and the savings over roaming fees on Etisalat’s network, it provides the most suitable eSIM alternative leveraging one of the UAE’s top networks for convenient connectivity in the UAE for the majority of international visitors.
Plans that may interest you!
XII. FAQs about DU in UAE
Can I buy du SIM card at Dubai airport?
After you clear immigration at any of the terminals at Dubai International Airport, you can pick up a free Du SIM card with 1GB of welcome data.
Can I get a du SIM card without Emirates ID?
That said, if you are organizing your own Dubai SIM card, you will need your Emirates ID. However, if you do not have an Emirates ID yet, you can pick up a tourist SIM until you obtain one.
Can I use 4G on my DU SIM card?
Yes, DU tourist SIMs support 4G LTE speeds up to 60Mbps across the UAE. 5G is also available in many areas.
How long is a du tourist SIM valid?
Du tourist SIM cards are valid for up to 90 days. While the SIM itself doesn’t expire, the pre-loaded data, call and text packages included with it upon activation are usable for a maximum of 90 days.
Should I get an eSIM for Dubai?
A UAE eSIM is extremely convenient and avoids the hassle of dealing with physical SIM cards. With affordable eSIM packages providing ample data, cellular connectivity won’t be an issue during your travels.
XIII. Final Words
In conclusion, getting a DU SIM card when visiting the UAE can ensure you stay constantly connected during your travels. DU provides reliable 4G coverage in major cities and tourist destinations across the country. However, obtaining a physical SIM card does require you to stand in queues at DU stores or kiosks at the airport upon arrival. A more hassle-free and convenient alternative is to purchase an eSIM from uaeesim.com, for the most effortless mobile connectivity in the UAE.
