How can I Activate my UAE SIM card?

How can I Activate my UAE SIM card?

To Activate your UAE SIM card, Insert your physical SIM to your phone. Log in to the My Etisalat UAE app. Select “Activate your eSIM” option on the app.

Activating your UAE SIM card is a straightforward process, but it can vary slightly depending on whether you’re a tourist or a resident, and whether you have a physical SIM or an eSIM. Here’s a general guide:

For Tourists:

  • Free SIM at the Airport: If you received a complimentary SIM card at Dubai International Airport, you usually activate it by inserting it into your phone and dialing *122#. Then, follow the instructions provided. You’ll need your passport and visa for registration.
  • Purchased Tourist SIM: If you bought a tourist SIM from a shop, you might need to activate it through the provider’s app or website, or by dialing a specific number. Check the instructions that came with your SIM card.

For Residents:

  • Physical SIM:
    • Etisalat: You can activate your Etisalat SIM through their website or app. You’ll need your Emirates ID.
    • Du: Visit a Du shop with your Emirates ID, or activate it online through the Du website.
  • eSIM:
    • Etisalat: You’ll need to visit an Etisalat store to subscribe to an eSIM service. They will provide a QR code that you scan with your phone to activate the eSIM.
    • Du: Du also offers eSIM activation. Check their website or visit a store for details.

General Tips:

  • Ensure your phone is unlocked: Make sure your phone is compatible with UAE networks and is not locked to a specific carrier in your home country.
  • Keep your documents handy: You’ll usually need your passport and visa (for tourists) or Emirates ID (for residents).
  • Follow the instructions: Carefully follow the instructions provided by your chosen telecom provider.
  • Contact customer service: If you encounter any difficulties, don’t hesitate to contact the customer service of your telecom provider (Etisalat or Du).

Additional Information:

  • Pre-booking Tourist SIM: You can often pre-book a tourist SIM online through the provider’s official partner to save time and get extra benefits like pre-loaded data and minutes.

What do I need to do to activate my eSIM on my phone?

  1. Subscribe to eSIM by visiting any Etisalat by e& outlet, e& UAE app or our website
  2. Get a QR code – this code can either be generated using e& UAE app (in case of existing number) or provided by an Etisalat by e& agent (in case of new number)
  3. Scan the QR code on the phone you would like to activate the eSIM on

How do I generate my QR code?

  1. Insert your physical SIM to your phone
  2. Log in to the My Etisalat UAE app
  3. Select “Activate your eSIM” option on the app
  4. Confirm your eSIM activation
  5. Once you select this option, your physical SIM will be deactivated
  6. You will get your QR code
  7. Share this QR code with another device, as it requires scanning it from your phone

Choosing the right plan: Consider your data and call usage needs when selecting a plan. Both Etisalat and Du offer a variety of options for tourists and residents.