This article will guide you through the process of buying a SIM card at Guarulhos International Airport. By the end, you’ll know exactly where to buy, the best SIM plans, their prices, and even alternative options.
du SIM Cards and eSIM 2024: a Comprehensive Guide for Tourists
Du SIM cards have revolutionized the way tourists stay connected while traveling abroad.
This blog post is for travelers heading to Dubai who often struggle to stay connected with family and friends due to high roaming charges or unreliable internet. Tourists can now enjoy reliable internet access with du SIM cards and eSIM options. This article will guide you in choosing the best connectivity options, purchasing and activating a du SIM card or eSIM, and staying connected affordably.
In this article
I. Quick Facts about du
When it comes to the UAE’s largest network operator, besides Etisalat, du is also a powerhouse in the UAE’s telecommunications industry that has been revolutionizing the way people connect and communicate since its inception.
Here are some key facts about it:
- Founded in 2006.
- Full company name is Emirates Integrated Telecommunications Company PJSC.
- Offers various services including mobile, fixed line, internet, and TV.
- Boasts over 9M subscribers across the UAE.
- Coverage spans over 99% of the UAE’s populated areas.
- Has over 700 stores and partners across the UAE.
- Provides 24/7 customer support through various channels, including a call center, email, and social media.
- Has won numerous awards, including “Best Telecom Operator” at the 2019 Telecoms World Middle East Awards.
II. du coverage in Dubai
OpenSignal’s November 2023 UAE Mobile Network Experience Report shows du has excellent coverage in Dubai.
- Du scored 7.3/10 for Coverage Experience.
- For 5G coverage, du scored 3.6/10.
- Du also leads in Availability, with users connecting 99.2% of the time.
III. du Speed in Dubai
Speed tests by OpenSignal revealed du’s fast network speeds:
- Overall download speed is 35.4 Mbps and upload speed is 9.9 Mbps.
- For 5G, du’s download speed was 254.2 Mbps and upload 25.2 Mbps – allowing quick uploading of photos and videos from your Dubai travels.
According to the report, with far-reaching coverage and fast speeds, du ensures your mobile experience will keep up with Dubai’s rapid pace. Whether you use navigation apps or share online, du surely keeps you consistently connected.
IV. Does du Dubai have eSIM?
du does indeed support eSIM technology. This means you can enjoy the convenience of a digital SIM card without needing a physical one.
With just one invisible eSIM, you can get many benefits:
- Space-saving: No physical SIM card needed, more space in your phone.
- Flexible: Switch between different eSIM profiles easily.
- Travel-friendly: Activate data plans abroad without getting a physical SIM.
You can purchase a du eSIM directly from their website or through authorized retailers.
While Gigago, one of the largest and most reputable eSIM distributors in the market, has yet to have the opportunity to offer eSIM due to network agreements, we offer eSIM packages from the best network carrier in the UAE – Etisalat. There’s no better solution than this, is there?
Gigago’s Dubai eSIM Packages:
For Dubai, Gigago offers multiple data plan options, starting from 1GB/day for 30 days with $10.50 . What is great about Gigago’s Dubai eSIM is that its plans’ costs are diversifying, varying between $10.50 – $275.50 .
Thus, it does not matter how many Internet users you are and how long your trip is in Dubai. There is always an option for you with Gigago.
V. Top du SIM cards for Tourists & Cost
The price of du SIM cards is generally reasonable. Below is general information for you:
PLAN NAME | DATA ALLOTMENT | CALLS/SMS ALLOTMENT | VALIDITY | PRICE (USD) |
Flexi Lite | 250MB | 100 minutes/100 SMS | 7 days | $3 |
Flexi Start | 500MB | 200 minutes/200 SMS | 30 days | $7 |
Flexi Easy | 1GB | Unlimited calls/SMS | 30 days | $12 |
Easy | 750MB | Unlimited calls/SMS | 14 days | $6 |
Easy Plus | 1.5GB | Unlimited calls/SMS | 30 days | $10 |
Easy Prime | 3GB | Unlimited calls/SMS | 30 days | $14 |
Flexi Prime | 10GB | Unlimited calls/SMS | 30 days | $25 |
Flexi Supreme | 25GB | Unlimited calls/SMS | 60 days | $35 |
Note: When buying a SIM card in Dubai, make sure:
- Your phone is unlocked and compatible with local networks.
- You will need a valid ID, like a passport or Emirates ID, to purchase a SIM card.
- Ask about how to top up your data or credit, and be aware of any roaming charges if you plan to use the SIM card outside of Dubai.
VI. Where can you buy du SIM cards & eSIMs?
Getting a SIM in Dubai is a breeze – it’s as easy as buying gold. Here are some suggestions for you:
1. Where to buy du SIM for Dubai?
Purchasing a du SIM card is convenient, with multiple purchase points across Dubai like:
- Dubai International Airport (Arrivals Terminal)
- du Retail Stores (located across the city)
- Supermarkets (Carrefour, Lulu, etc.)
- Petrol Stations
- Electronics Stores (Sharaf DG, Jumbo, etc.)
2. Where to buy du Dubai eSIM?
eSIMs make it easy for tourists in Dubai to connect, with many ways to buy them online or in stores.
- Online (via telecommunication provider websites)
- Dubai International Airport (Arrivals Terminal)
- Get one at du Retail Stores
- Online Travel Agencies (Gigago stands out as the most reliable)
VII. FAQs about du SIM cards in Dubai
How much does a du SIM card cost?
Prices vary but typically range from 55 to 125 AED ($14.8 – $34), depending on the plan.
What’s the difference between a du SIM card u0026amp; eSIM?
A physical SIM is insertable, while an eSIM is embedded in your device.
Can I keep my du SIM card number if I switch to an eSIM?
Yes, du allows number transfer from physical SIM to eSIM.
How long are tourist du SIM cards valid?
Tourist SIMs are typically valid for 90 days but can be extended.
VIII. Conclusion
In conclusion, getting and activating du SIM cards or eSIMs in Dubai is easy and keeps you connected during your stay. Just follow a few simple steps: choose a plan, provide your ID, and activate your du SIM card online or in-store. These options ensure reliable connectivity and excellent service for both visitors and residents.