An eSIM is a digital SIM built into your phone. Instead of swapping plastic cards, you install it by scanning a QR code.
Your phone then has two lines: your own SIM for calls and texts, and our eSIM for mobile internet in the UAE.
Nothing changes on your own SIM: same number, same WhatsApp.
Choose your days and pay with Apple Pay, Google Pay or card. No account, no sign-up.
The QR code appears right after payment and in your inbox. On iPhone, one tap installs it. Best done at home on Wi-Fi.
When you arrive, turn on the eSIM and data roaming. Your days start with the first connection in the UAE.
On the same networks the locals use: du, 4G/5G.
| Airport | City | Status |
|---|---|---|
| DXB | DUBAI | ONLINE |
| AUH | ABU DHABI | ONLINE |
| SHJ | SHARJAH | ONLINE |
| DWC | DUBAI SOUTH | ONLINE |
| RKT | RAS AL KHAIMAH | ONLINE |
Why “unlimited”? Because you never run out: after 1 GB at full speed, you stay online at 1 Mbps until your next day starts.
Outside the EU, free roaming doesn’t apply – your home plan usually charges extra there.
| Home roaming | Local SIM | needasim eSIM | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online the moment you land | Yes | No | Yes |
| No extra roaming charges | No | Yes | Yes |
| No shop, queue or passport check | Yes | No | Yes |
| Your own SIM stays in – for calls and bank texts | Yes | No | Yes |
Dial *#06#. If you see an EID number, your phone supports eSIM.
It also has to be unlocked, i.e. not tied to one mobile network.
Not on our list. Do the *#06# test – if you see an EID, it works.
Write to us on WhatsApp or by email with your order number – no forms.
With the first connection to a network in the UAE – not when you buy or install. So you can buy weeks in advance.
Before you leave, on Wi-Fi. It takes about a minute and doesn't use up any days.
Yes, for the needasim eSIM line – it's included, with no extra charges. Keep roaming off on your home SIM to avoid charges from your own provider.
You stay online at 1 Mbps until your next day starts – enough for maps, messages and browsing.
Yes. WhatsApp stays on your usual number, and your own SIM keeps receiving calls and texts if you leave it on.
Yes. You pay on the secure page of Viva.com, a European payment provider, with Apple Pay, Google Pay or card. We never see your card details.
needasim is a European online shop for travel eSIMs, based in Hungary. We buy the data plans directly from a global eSIM provider and deliver them to you instantly. You can reach us on WhatsApp or by email.
Write to us and we'll help. If we can't get it working, you get a full refund – just let us know within 30 days of purchase.
