The market regulator is the TDRA (tdra.gov.ae). Plan terms, coverage and prices differ between Etisalat (e&) and du and change — check current bundles on etisalat.ae and du.ae. We don't invent numbers.
Official authorities
Direct links to the relevant government departments.
Step by step
- 1
Choose an operator
The two main operators are Etisalat (brand e&) and du. Both offer prepaid and postpaid plans plus sub-brands. Compare coverage and data bundles.
- 2
Prepare your documents
A resident needs an Emirates ID for a permanent SIM; a tourist can get a tourist SIM on a passport. SIM registration to an identity is mandatory under TDRA rules.
Documents:Emirates ID (resident)Passport (tourist)Visa (if any) - 3
Get the SIM and plan
Buy a SIM at operator stores, the airport, authorised dealers or online in the operator's app (with delivery and digital eSIM).
- 4
Activate and top up
Activate the SIM per the operator's instructions. Prepaid tops up online, in the app or by voucher; postpaid is a monthly bill. You can switch plans in the operator's app.
Fees and timelines may change — verify with the official source.
Who provides this service in Dubai
Real companies from Google Maps — live ratings and reviews.
Karoon Phones & Electronics | كارون للهواتف و الالكترونيات
4.9(263)Al Hudaiba Rd - Al Satwa - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
Mobile Shop - Mountain Electronics & Mobile Phones Trading Co LLC
4.8(29)281 - 279 D90 - Al Bada' - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
Best Buy Mobiles& Accessories
4.9(79)Best buy super market, The Pad by Omniyat - Marasi Dr - Business Bay - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
Miles Telecom Trading
4.8(232)Remax Building - Al Satwa Rd - Al Satwa - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
Planet Telecom
4.2(132)gargash center baniyas square - 7893+JF9 - baniyas square - metro station - نايف - ديرة - دبي - United Arab Emirates
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