Dubai, Abu Dhabi and the rest of the UAE
An eSIM for Dubai or a UAE eSIM gives you data across the Emirates, from Dubai and Abu Dhabi to the rest of the country. It is data only, so there is no local number. You can use it for maps, messaging, and browsing as soon as you land. If you want to know whether your phone supports eSIM, you can check your phone is eSIM compatible.
Data for a stopover vs a week
How much data you need depends on your trip. A short stopover might only need enough for maps, a few messages, and checking your next flight. A week in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, with daily navigation, social media, and maybe some video, will use more. Because the eSIM is data only, you do not need to worry about calls or texts using your allowance. You can top up the same eSIM if you run low, with no new QR code needed. Hotspot and tethering are allowed, so you can share your data with a laptop or another device.
Install before you fly
You can buy and install your eSIM before you travel. The QR code arrives by email in under 60 seconds. Validity starts when the eSIM first connects at your destination, so you can set it up at home and it will not activate until you arrive. For step by step instructions, see our installation guide.
Calls on messaging apps in the UAE
In the UAE, voice and video calls on some messaging apps can be restricted. Check before you rely on them. You can still use data for messaging, browsing, and other apps. If you need to make calls, you can use your home SIM for calls and bank OTPs, as explained below.
Home SIM for OTPs
Keep your home SIM in your phone for calls and bank OTPs. Your eSIM handles data, while your home SIM stays active for texts and calls. This is important for receiving one time passwords from your bank or other services. For more details, see calls, texts and OTPs on a data eSIM.
Support and refunds
WhatsApp support is available before, during, and after your trip. Unused eSIMs are covered for 14 days: swap for another eSIM or take Slashtel credit, with a card refund if your phone turns out to be incompatible or the fault is ours. See the refund policy. The eSIM is data only, so there is no local number and no traditional calls or SMS. However, you can make calls over data using apps like WhatsApp, subject to any local restrictions.
Why choose a UAE eSIM
A UAE eSIM is a convenient way to stay connected without hunting for a local SIM card. You can install it before you fly, and it activates when you arrive. It works across the UAE, so you can travel between Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other emirates without changing anything. You can top up the same eSIM if you need more data, and hotspot is allowed. Remember to keep your home SIM in the phone for calls and bank OTPs.
Getting started
Buy your eSIM from Slashtel, receive the QR code by email in under 60 seconds, and install it before you travel. Check that your phone is eSIM compatible using our guide. Once you land, turn on the eSIM and you will be connected. If you need help, WhatsApp support is there for you. With data only, you can focus on your trip and stay connected with messaging apps, maps, and more.
Dubai & UAE eSIM